mast cell
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Tweet n. A cell produced in bone marrow that functions in allergic reactions and other inflammatory and immune responses by releasing substances such as histamine and cytokines and by directly killing pathogens. Mast cells are found chiefly in connective tissue and contain basophilic granules. [Partial translation of German Mastzelle, well-fed cell (from an early view that the granules were from phagocytosis) : Mast, food, mast (from Middle High German, from Old High German) + Zelle, cell.] |
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