The Major Cell types of the Immune SystemName of Cell Function

Small lymphocyte production of antibodies (B cells) or cytotoxic and helper functions (T cells)

Dendritic cell activates T cells and initiates adaptive immune response

Plasma cell fully differentiated form of B cell that secrets antibodies

Mast cell expulsion of parasites from body through release of granules containing histamine and other active agents

Natural killer cell kills infected cells with certain viruses, also kills cancerous cells

Monocyte precursor to macrophage, circulates system

Neutrophil phagocytosis and killing of microorganisms, large proportion (40-75%) circulating around the body

Macrophage phagocytosis and killing of microorganisms, also activation of T cells and initiation of immune responses. Garbage collectors, gobble up pathogens and dead cells

Eosinophil killing of antibody-coated parasites through release of granule contents

Megakaryocyte platelet formation, wound repair

Basophil controlling immune responses to parasites

Erythrocytes oxygen transport (red blood cells)

hematopoietic cell the type of stem cell that all immune cells come from