Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell in the vertebrate immune system. They include natural killer cells (which function in cell-mediated, cytotoxic innate immunity), T cells (for cell-mediated, cytotoxic adaptive immunity), and B cells (for humoral, antibody-driven adaptive immunity). They are the main type of cell found in lymph, which prompted the name "lymphocyte".

Types

The three major types of lymphocyte are T cells, B cells and natural killer cells (NK cells). They are generally identified and differentiated by their function and cell surface protein markers.

T cells

T cells are a type of lymphocyte that develop in the thymus and play a central role in cell-mediated immunity. They can be distinguished from other lymphocyte types, such as B cells and natural killer cells, by the presence of a T-cell receptor on the cell surface.

B cells

B cells are a type of lymphocyte that develop in the bone marrow and play a central role in humoral immunity. They can be distinguished from other lymphocyte types by the presence of a B-cell receptor on the cell surface.

Natural killer cells

Natural killer cells (NK cells) are a type of lymphocyte and a component of innate immune system. NK cells play a major role in the host-rejection of both tumors and virally infected cells.

Function

Lymphocytes play an important and integral part in the body's defenses. They are responsible for immune responses and, hence, play a crucial role in defending the body against pathogens and diseases.

See also

• Immune system
• White blood cell
• T cell
• B cell
• Natural killer cell

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