CFU-GM
CFU-GM (Colony-forming unit-granulocyte, macrophage) is a type of stem cell that produces granulocytes and macrophages, which are types of white blood cells. These cells are vital for the immune system, as they help to fight off infections and diseases.
Overview[edit | edit source]
CFU-GM is a type of hematopoietic stem cell, which are cells that can differentiate into all types of blood cells. The "CFU" in CFU-GM stands for "colony-forming unit", which refers to the cell's ability to proliferate and form colonies of cells. The "GM" stands for "granulocyte, macrophage", which are the types of cells that the CFU-GM can differentiate into.
Granulocytes and macrophages are both types of white blood cells that play important roles in the immune system. Granulocytes are involved in the body's first line of defense against infections, while macrophages are involved in both the initial response to infections and the later stages of the immune response.
Function[edit | edit source]
CFU-GM cells are responsible for the production of granulocytes and macrophages. They do this by undergoing a process called hematopoiesis, in which they differentiate into these types of cells.
During hematopoiesis, CFU-GM cells first differentiate into progenitor cells, which are cells that are more specialized than stem cells but can still differentiate into multiple types of cells. These progenitor cells then differentiate into either granulocytes or macrophages.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Because of their role in the immune system, CFU-GM cells are important in a number of medical conditions. For example, a decrease in the number of these cells can lead to a weakened immune system and an increased risk of infection.
In addition, CFU-GM cells are also important in the field of stem cell transplantation. These cells can be harvested from a donor and then transplanted into a patient, where they can then produce new blood cells. This can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including leukemia and other types of cancer.
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