Bone marrow and immune system

What is the role of bone marrow?

Our bone marrow produces blood cells called red blood cells (erythrocyte), platelets and white blood cells (leukocyte).

In the bone marrow, blood cells begin their lives as young, immature cells called stem cells. Once they are developed, the blood cells do not live long. That is why our bone marrow continually produces three types of blood cells to keep us healthy.

Bone marrow and blood cells

- Red blood cells:

These cells are red because they are filled with a protein called hemoglobin. Oxygen and carbon dioxide bind to the iron that is hemoglobin, which allows the red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body. Red blood cells also rid the body of carbon dioxide, which leaves the body through the lungs when we exhale.

- Platelets:

Platelets are blood cells that help the blood to clot (by sticking together) to help stop the bleeding at the body that have been cut or injured. Platelets form of scabies that covers a small cut.

- White blood cells:

White blood cells help the body fight infections. There are many different types of white blood cells, including:

     - Lymphocytes, Neutrophils, and Monocytes: These white blood cells fight bacteria, viruses or fungi that invade the body to destroy infections. Each cell has a different appearance.

     - Eosinophils and Basophils: These cells react to allergies that can invade the body.