| White blood cells (Cont.) |
| The primary functions of the various white blood cells are: | ||
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Neutrophils - phagocytosis (bacteria & cellular debris); very important in inflammation |
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| Eosinophils - help break down blood clots & kill parasites | ||
| Basophils - synthesize and store histamine (a substance released during inflammation) and heparin (an anticoagulant); functions(s) remain unclear | ||
| Monocytes - phagocytosis (typically as macrophages in tissues of the liver, spleen, lungs, & lymph nodes) | ||
| Lymphocytes - immune response (including production of antibodies) | ||
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