How Do You Spell MACROPHAGE?

Pronunciation: [mˈakɹəfɪd͡ʒ] (IPA)

Macrophage is a term used in immunology to refer to a type of immune cell. Its spelling is derived from the Greek words "makros" which means "large" and "phagein" which means "to eat". The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈmækrəfeɪdʒ/. The first syllable is pronounced as "mak" with a short "a" sound, and the second syllable is pronounced as "roh" with a schwa sound. The last syllable is pronounced as "fayj" with a hard "g" sound. Overall, the word has a stress on the second syllable.

MACROPHAGE Meaning and Definition

  1. A macrophage is a type of immune cell that plays a significant role in the defense mechanisms of the body. It is a specialized immune cell called a phagocyte, which means it has the capability to engulf and ingest foreign particles, microorganisms, and cellular debris. Macrophages are derived from monocytes, a type of white blood cell that circulates in the bloodstream. Once they locate the site of infection, injury, or inflammation, monocytes transform into macrophages.

    Functionally, macrophages serve multiple important roles within the immune system. They act as scavengers, patrolling for and ingesting harmful substances and microorganisms. Additionally, macrophages assist in the initiation and regulation of the immune response by presenting foreign antigens to other immune cells, such as T cells, thus activating an immune response against the invading pathogens.

    Macrophages are also involved in tissue repair and remodeling. They release certain molecules, such as growth factors and enzymes, that aid in wound healing and tissue regeneration. Furthermore, they contribute to the resolution of inflammation by engulfing and eliminating dead cells and cellular debris.

    Within tissues, macrophages exhibit remarkable plasticity, adapting their function to the specific needs of the environment. They can assume different phenotypes, ranging from inflammatory (M1) to reparative (M2) macrophages, depending on the type and stage of the immune response.

    The term "macrophage" originates from the Greek words "makros" meaning "large," and "phagein" meaning "to eat." This reflects their key function of engulfing and digesting foreign material within the body.

Common Misspellings for MACROPHAGE

Etymology of MACROPHAGE

The word "macrophage" comes from two Greek roots: "macro-" meaning "large" and "phagein" meaning "to eat". Therefore, "macrophage" literally translates to "big eater". This term was coined by Russian biologist Élie Metchnikoff in the late 19th century to describe a type of white blood cell that engulfs and destroys pathogens, cellular debris, and foreign substances within the body.

Similar spelling words for MACROPHAGE

Plural form of MACROPHAGE is MACROPHAGES

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