BIOL-3150 Chapter Notes - Chapter 21: Vasodilation, Special Functions, Anticoagulant
Document Summary
Functions of blood: fluid connective tissue: contains cells, a liquid ground substance called plasma and dissolved proteins, formed elements: cellular components of blood, erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets, plasma: liquid of blood, about 55%, non-living fluid matrix. Functions of blood: performs numerous functions that are important in the maintenance of homeostasis. It"s very protective to molecule itself: prevents breakage into fragments of hemoglobin as its in the membranous sacs. Leukocytes: true cells with organelles and nucleus; larger than erythrocytes too. Special functions of leukocytes: use blood circulation as a free taxi ride. Allergy symptoms: can also be signaling agent to recruit other neutrophils, heparin: anticoagulant, want to inhibit blood clotting and maintain blood flow. Attack any abnormal tissue cells, target everything different or that shouldn"t be there: monocytes: largest wbc, leave circulation and become macrophages phagocytize pathogens (bacteria/virus), cellular debris, dead cells.