Role in Immune Response
Mononuclear cells are essential for the immune system.
T cells are involved in cell-mediated immunity, directly attacking infected or cancerous cells.
B cells are responsible for producing antibodies, which neutralize pathogens.
Monocytes and the macrophages they become are crucial for phagocytosis, engulfing and digesting cellular debris and pathogens.
Histological Identification
In histology, mononuclear cells can be identified by their single, round nucleus.
Lymphocytes typically have a large, dense nucleus with scant cytoplasm, while
monocytes have larger, kidney-shaped nuclei and more abundant cytoplasm. Special staining techniques, such as
Wright-Giemsa stain, are often used to differentiate these cells under the microscope.
Clinical Significance
An increased number of mononuclear cells, known as
mononucleosis, can be indicative of various conditions, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers. For example, a high lymphocyte count might be seen in viral infections, while elevated monocyte levels may occur in chronic inflammatory conditions.
Mononuclear Phagocyte System
The mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) is a network of cells comprising monocytes and macrophages that play a pivotal role in immune surveillance and response. These cells are involved in the detection, phagocytosis, and destruction of pathogens and are crucial for tissue repair and homeostasis.Research and Therapeutic Applications
Mononuclear cells are often used in research and therapeutic applications. For instance,
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) are isolated from blood samples and used in various immunological studies and clinical trials. Additionally,
stem cell therapy often involves the use of mononuclear cells to treat conditions like cardiovascular diseases and hematological disorders.
