AZUROPHIL GRANULE Meaning and
Definition
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An azurophil granule is a distinctive cytoplasmic inclusion found in certain types of cells, particularly in immune cells known as granulocytes or white blood cells. These granules are characterized by their blue or purplish coloration when stained and observed under a microscope, hence the prefix "azuro" which means blue.
Azurophil granules are primarily composed of proteins and enzymes that play a crucial role in the immune response and defense mechanisms of the body. They contain various substances involved in the breakdown of cellular debris, such as lysosomal enzymes, myeloperoxidase, cathepsin G, elastase, and defensins, among others. These granules act as storage compartments for these proteins, which are released upon activation of the immune cells to carry out their functions.
When a pathogen invades the body or an injury occurs, granulocytes migrate towards the site of infection or inflammation. Upon activation, the azurophil granules fuse with the cell membrane, allowing the release of their contents, notably the enzymes, into the extracellular environment. This process contributes to both the destruction of engulfed pathogens and the modification of the surrounding tissue.
The presence and abundance of azurophil granules can serve as a diagnostic indicator for certain diseases, such as acute leukemia or genetic disorders affecting granulocyte development. Additionally, research on the composition and function of these granules provides valuable insights into the immune response, inflammation, and the pathophysiology of various conditions related to granulocyte dysfunctions.
Common Misspellings for AZUROPHIL GRANULE
- zzurophil granule
- szurophil granule
- wzurophil granule
- qzurophil granule
- axurophil granule
- asurophil granule
- aaurophil granule
- azyrophil granule
- azhrophil granule
- azjrophil granule
- azirophil granule
- az8rophil granule
- az7rophil granule
- azueophil granule
- azudophil granule
- azufophil granule
- azutophil granule
- azu5ophil granule
- azu4ophil granule
- azuriphil granule
Etymology of AZUROPHIL GRANULE
The word "azurophil" comes from the combination of two root words, "azuro-" and "-phil".
The first part, "azuro-", is derived from the Latin word "azureus", which means "sky-blue" or "deep blue". In medical terminology, "azuro-" is used to refer to a dark blue or a purple-blue color.
The second part, "-phil", is derived from the Greek word "philos", which means "fond of" or "loving". In biology and medicine, the term "-phil" is used to indicate an affinity or attraction towards something.
Therefore, the word "azurophil" signifies an affinity or attraction toward a dark blue or purple-blue color.
As for the term "granule", it descends from the Latin word "granulum", which means "small grain" or "tiny particle".
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