Understanding Myeloid Cells: Types, Functions, and Diseases

Myeloid refers to a type of cell that is derived from the myeloid lineage, which is one of the two main types of cells in the bone marrow. The other type of cell is lymphoid.

Myeloid cells are responsible for producing blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. They also play a role in the immune system and can differentiate into various types of cells, such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and granulocytes.

Some common myeloid cells include:

1. Red blood cells (erythrocytes): These cells carry oxygen throughout the body.
2. White blood cells (leukocytes): These cells help fight infections and diseases.
3. Platelets (thrombocytes): These cells are responsible for blood clotting.
4. Macrophages: These cells engulf and digest foreign particles and dead cells.
5. Dendritic cells: These cells present antigens to T cells and help activate the immune response.
6. Granulocytes: These cells are involved in the immune response and can ingest and destroy pathogens.

Myeloid cells are important for maintaining the body's overall health and function, and abnormalities in myeloid cell development or function can lead to a variety of diseases, such as anemia, leukemia, and autoimmune disorders.