Pronunciation: [lˈuːkəsˌa͡ɪts] (IPA) 
Leucocytes (also known as white blood cells) are an essential part of the immune system, helping to fight off infections and diseases. The spelling of this word is derived from the Greek words "leukos" meaning "white" and "kutos" meaning "cell". In phonetic transcription, the word is spelled as /luːkəsaɪts/. The "eu" is pronounced as a long "oo", the "c" is pronounced as a soft "s", and the "cytes" is pronounced as "sites".
Leucocytes, also known as white blood cells, are a critical component of the immune system in vertebrates. They play a crucial role in defending the body against pathogens, foreign substances, and infections. Leucocytes are a diverse group of cells with distinct subtypes, each with its own specialized function.
The main types of leucocytes include neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Neutrophils are the most abundant type and are primarily responsible for attacking and engulfing bacteria and fungi. Lymphocytes work to recognize and eliminate foreign substances, produce antibodies, and regulate immune responses. Monocytes differentiate into macrophages, which focus on phagocytosis and removing cellular debris. Eosinophils are involved in combating parasitic infections, allergies, and asthma, while basophils contribute to the inflammatory response.
Leucocytes are produced and stored in various tissues and organs, including the bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen. They can circulate throughout the body via the bloodstream to reach sites of infection or inflammation. Leucocytes can be attracted to specific areas by chemical signals released during an immune response.
Abnormal levels or dysfunction of leucocytes can have significant implications for health. Conditions such as leukopenia (low white blood cell count) or leukocytosis (high white blood cell count) may occur. These can be indicative of underlying infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain types of cancers.
In summary, leucocytes are white blood cells that play a crucial role in protecting the body from pathogens and foreign substances. They are an essential component of the immune system and contribute to the overall health and well-being of an individual.
The word "leucocytes" is derived from the Greek words "leukos" meaning "white" and "kutos" meaning "cell". In this context, "leucocytes" refers to white blood cells, which are important components of the immune system. The term was coined in the mid-19th century to describe the colorless appearance of these cells.
