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Mast cell, TEM
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Mast cell, TEM
Mast cell, coloured transmission electron micrograph (TEM). Mast cells are a type of white blood cell found in connective tissue. The large oval (orange) is the cells nucleus, which contains its genetic information. Within the cells cytoplasm (green) are granules (red) containing chemical mediators, including histamine and heparin. When the mast cell is activated, either by an allergic reaction or in response to injury or inflammation, these granules are released into the tissues. Histamine is responsible for the symptoms of an allergic reaction. It causes pain and itching, dilates capillaries and makes them more permeable, leading to red skin and swelling. Heparin is an anticoagulant, it prevents blood from clotting. Magnification: x4, 800 when printed at 10 centimetres wide
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Media ID 6388059
© CNRI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Allergic Reaction Connective Tissue Cytoplasm Granular Granule Granules Heparin Histamine Hypersensitivity Immune System Immunological Immunology Inflammation Inflammatory Mast Cell Mediator Microscope Nucleus Transmission Electron Transmission Electron Micrograph White Blood Cell False Coloured
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a mast cell, a vital component of our immune system, as seen through the lens of a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The vibrant colors highlight different elements within the cell and provide valuable insights into its structure and function. Mast cells are white blood cells that reside in connective tissue throughout our bodies. At the center of this image lies the large oval nucleus, containing genetic information crucial for cellular processes. Surrounding it is the cytoplasm, depicted in green, which houses granules filled with chemical mediators such as histamine and heparin. When triggered by an allergic reaction or injury-induced inflammation, these granules are released into surrounding tissues. Histamine plays a pivotal role in allergic reactions by causing pain, itching, redness, and swelling. It also dilates capillaries and increases their permeability. On the other hand, heparin acts as an anticoagulant to prevent blood clotting. At an impressive magnification of x4,800 when printed at 10 centimeters wide, this image provides us with invaluable details about mast cells' intricate biology and their involvement in various immunological processes. It serves as a reminder of how microscopic wonders shape our understanding of human physiology while emphasizing the importance of studying these remarkable components for medical advancements related to hypersensitivity reactions and inflammatory conditions.
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