Monocyte

A circulating white blood cell that can enter tissues and differentiate into macrophages or dendritic cells. Monocytes also help detect infection and coordinate immune responses.

Hematopoiesis: The formation of blood cells from hematopoietic stem cells, mainly in bone marrow. Monocytes arise from this process before entering the bloodstream.
Leukocyte: A white blood cell involved in immune defense and inflammation. Monocytes are one class of leukocyte, alongside lymphocytes and granulocytes.
Complete blood count: A blood test that measures blood-cell numbers, often including a differential count of white-cell types. Its differential can report the absolute and relative number of circulating monocytes.
Classical monocyte: A human monocyte subset characterized by high CD14 and low CD16 surface expression. It is the most abundant circulating monocyte subset and responds strongly to inflammatory signals.
Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1: A chemokine, also called CCL2, that attracts monocytes toward inflamed tissues. This signal helps recruit circulating monocytes to infection and injury sites.
Innate immunity: The rapid, broadly targeted defense system that recognizes common features of pathogens and tissue damage. Monocytes participate in this early defense before antigen-specific responses develop.
Monocytosis: An abnormally increased number of monocytes in the blood. This laboratory finding can accompany infections, inflammation, or blood disorders.
Intermediate monocyte: A human monocyte subset expressing high CD14 and CD16 surface levels. Its marker profile and antigen-presentation activity distinguish it from classical monocytes.
Diapedesis: The movement of blood cells through vessel walls into surrounding tissue. Monocytes use this process to leave circulation and reach affected tissues.
Monoblast: An immature bone-marrow cell in the developmental pathway that produces monocytes. It is an early recognizable precursor in monocyte development.

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