What are neutrophils?

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that are an essential part of the body's immune system. They are the most abundant type of white blood cell, making up 50-70% of all circulating white blood cells. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and then released into the bloodstream, where they circulate for about 10-12 hours.

Neutrophils are phagocytic cells, which means they engulf and destroy foreign particles, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They also release antimicrobial substances, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antimicrobial peptides, which help to kill microorganisms. Neutrophils are also involved in the inflammatory response, and they can produce a variety of cytokines and chemokines that recruit other immune cells to the site of infection or injury.

Neutrophils are essential for the body's defense against infection, and they play a role in a variety of diseases, including pneumonia, sepsis, and cancer. However, excessive neutrophil activity can also lead to tissue damage and inflammation, and it is thought to contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis and arthritis.