Cells at Work!

Cells at Work v1 cover

Cells at Work! (Hataraku Saibō) is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Akane Shimizu. It was first serialized in Kodansha's shōnen manga magazine Monthly Shōnen Sirius in March 2015. The series is a biological comedy and drama that personifies human cells as characters who work together to fight off pathogens and keep the body healthy. The main characters include a red blood cell, identified as AE3803, who delivers nutrients throughout the body, and a white blood cell, U-1146, who fights against pathogens invading the body.

Plot

The story of Cells at Work! takes place inside the human body, depicted as a large city where cells carry out their specific functions. The narrative primarily follows the adventures of a naive Red Blood Cell, AE3803, who is new to her delivery job, and a stoic White Blood Cell, U-1146, who specializes in combating germs and bacteria that invade the body. Together, they encounter various other cells, including Macrophages, Platelets, and T Cells, each playing unique roles in maintaining the body's health. The series creatively educates readers about the complex functions of human cells and the immune system through engaging stories and battles against diseases.

Characters

• Red Blood Cell (AE3803): A female red blood cell who struggles with directions but is dedicated to her job of delivering oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body.
• White Blood Cell (U-1146): A male white blood cell who is part of the body's immune system, responsible for eliminating harmful bacteria and viruses.
• Macrophage: These cells are depicted as nurturing, yet powerful women who clean up dead cells and pathogens.
• Platelets: Represented as small children, platelets are responsible for repairing damaged blood vessels and forming blood clots.
• T Cells: A group of immune cells that are involved in fighting off infections. The series focuses on a particular T Cell known as the Killer T Cell, who is portrayed as a tough and aggressive fighter.

Media

Manga

The Cells at Work! manga began serialization in Monthly Shōnen Sirius in March 2015. Kodansha has collected its chapters into individual tankōbon volumes. The series has also inspired several spin-off manga, including Cells at Work! Code Black, which takes a darker tone by exploring the body of an unhealthy individual.

Anime

An anime television series adaptation by David Production aired from July to September 2018. A second season, along with a spin-off series, Cells at Work! Code Black, was announced and aired in January 2021. The anime has been praised for its educational content, humor, and unique premise.

Reception

Cells at Work! has been well-received by both critics and audiences for its innovative approach to teaching about the human body and immune system. It has been noted for its ability to turn complex biological processes into entertaining and educational stories. The series has also been used as an educational tool in schools and by healthcare professionals to explain the functions of the human body and the importance of health and hygiene.