Red Blood Cells
Erythrocytes, or red blood cells, specialize in oxygen transport throughout the body. These unique cells lack nuclei to maximize hemoglobin capacity, the protein responsible for binding oxygen. Each cell contains approximately 280 million hemoglobin molecules, giving blood its red color. Red blood cells live about 120 days, with bone marrow continuously producing new cells to replace aging ones.
White Blood Cells
Leukocytes, or white blood cells, form the immune system's cellular defense force. Different types include neutrophils that fight bacterial infections, lymphocytes that produce antibodies and kill virus-infected cells, and macrophages that engulf foreign particles. These cells patrol the bloodstream and tissues, responding quickly to signs of infection or injury through complex recognition and response mechanisms.
Platelets
Platelets, though technically cell fragments, play crucial roles in blood clotting. When blood vessels suffer damage, platelets detect exposed collagen and activate, changing shape and releasing chemicals that attract more platelets. They form plugs to stop bleeding and initiate the clotting cascade, a series of chemical reactions that strengthen the clot. This process prevents excessive blood loss while allowing for later wound healing.Shutdown123