When infection strikes, you need someone who arrives fast. That’s the job of neutrophils — the most common type of white blood cell and the first responders of your immune system.
🔬 What are Neutrophils?
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A type of white blood cell (granulocyte).
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Produced in the bone marrow.
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Circulate in the bloodstream, always on standby.
🚨 Role in the Immune System
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Rapid response: Rush to infection sites within minutes.
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Phagocytosis: Swallow bacteria and fungi.
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Chemical warfare: Release enzymes and toxic chemicals to kill invaders.
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Sacrifice: They often die in the process → pus = mostly dead neutrophils.
⚔️ Why “The First Responders”?
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They’re like police officers on patrol 👮 — the first on the scene when trouble begins.
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Arrive before other immune cells and hold off invaders until reinforcements arrive.
📝 GCSE & A-Level Revision Notes
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✅ Most abundant white blood cell (50–70% of all WBCs).
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✅ Short-lived (a few hours to days).
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✅ Kill pathogens via phagocytosis + enzymes.
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✅ Key part of innate immunity (fast, non-specific).
📚 Exam Tip
If you see the term “pus” → think of neutrophils. Dead neutrophils = pus at the site of infection.
💡 Mnemonic: N = Numerous + Now → Neutrophils are the most numerous WBCs and respond NOW.
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