What is the Difference Between Polymorphonuclear and Mononuclear Cells?

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The main difference between polymorphonuclear and mononuclear cells lies in their nuclear structure and the presence or absence of granules in their cytoplasm. Here are the key differences:

  1. POLYMORPHO-NUCLEAR CELLS:
  • These cells have asegmented nucleus with several lobes.
  • They have granules in their cytoplasm.
  • Examples of polymorphonuclear cells include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.
  1. MONO-NUCLEAR CELLS:
  • These cells have a round, unilobed nucleus.
  • They lack granules in their cytoplasm.
  • Examples of mononuclear cells include lymphocytes and monocytes.

In summary, polymorphonuclear cells have a segmented nucleus and granules in their cytoplasm, while mononuclear cells have a round, unilobed nucleus and lack granules in their cytoplasm.

Comparative Table: Polymorphonuclear vs Mononuclear Cells

Here is a table comparing the differences between polymorphonuclear (PMN) and mononuclear cells:

Feature Polymorphonuclear Cells (PMNs) Mononuclear Cells
Type Granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, and mast cells) Lymphocytes, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells
Nucleus Polymorphonuclear (multi-lobed) Mononuclear (single round)
Granules Present Variable; some contain granules while others do not
Function Phagocytosis, inflammation, and pathogen destruction Various functions, including immune response and antigen presentation
Production Bone marrow Bone marrow

PMNs are a type of white blood cell that include neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, and mast cells, and are characterized by their polymorphonuclear nucleus and the presence of granules in their cytoplasm. They play essential roles in phagocytosis, inflammation, and pathogen destruction.

Mononuclear cells, on the other hand, include lymphocytes, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells, and are characterized by a single round nucleus. They have various functions, such as immune response and antigen presentation.