KILLER CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A killer cell, also known as a natural killer cell (NK cell), is a type of white blood cell that plays a vital role in the immune system's defense against pathogens and malignant cells. These specialized cells are part of the body's innate immune response and are classified as lymphocytes.
Killer cells are named based on their ability to identify and eradicate infected cells or abnormal cells without prior exposure or activation. They are primarily responsible for recognizing and destroying virus-infected cells, as well as cancer cells and other cells that display abnormal surface markers, using a process called cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
The distinguishing characteristic of killer cells is their capacity to distinguish between normal healthy cells and those that are under attack. They achieve this by recognizing the presence of particular molecules on the surface of target cells, such as major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. If a killer cell detects abnormalities or lack of MHC class I molecules on a cell, it binds to it and releases cytotoxic granules containing enzymes and proteins that induce apoptosis, resulting in programmed cell death.
Through their ability to directly kill infected or malignant cells, killer cells provide a crucial line of defense against invading pathogens and tumor development. Dysfunction or impairment of killer cells can lead to increased susceptibility to infections and an elevated risk of cancer.
Common Misspellings for KILLER CELL
- jiller cell
- miller cell
- liller cell
- oiller cell
- iiller cell
- kuller cell
- kjller cell
- kkller cell
- koller cell
- k9ller cell
- k8ller cell
- kikler cell
- kipler cell
- kioler cell
- kilker cell
- kilper cell
- kiloer cell
- killwr cell
- killsr cell
- killdr cell
Etymology of KILLER CELL
The term "killer cell" is derived from the word "kill" and the compound noun "cell".
"Kill" traces back to the Old English word "cwellan", which means "destroy" or "kill". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic language and has cognates in several other Germanic languages. The word has been used in various forms throughout history to signify causing the death or destruction of something.
The word "cell" originates from the Latin word "cella", which refers to a small room or chamber. In biology, it refers to the basic structural and functional unit of living organisms. The term "cell" has been in use since the 17th century and is widely applied in various scientific contexts, particularly in relation to biological entities.
When combined, the term "killer cell" describes a specific type of cell that is capable of inflicting death or destruction on target cells.
Similar spelling words for KILLER CELL
- cell-color ratio,
- collar cell,
- zeal color,
- killer t-cell,
- suli claro,
- sail color.
