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Multiple Choice
Natural killer cells are a type of ______.
A
lymphocyte
B
neutrophil
C
dendritic cell
D
macrophage
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'natural killer cells.' These are a type of immune cell that plays a role in the body's innate immune response, targeting virus-infected cells and tumor cells.
Step 2: Recall the major types of immune cells. These include lymphocytes (T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells), neutrophils (a type of granulocyte), dendritic cells (antigen-presenting cells), and macrophages (phagocytic cells).
Step 3: Focus on lymphocytes. These are a subset of white blood cells that include T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. Natural killer cells are unique because they do not require prior activation to kill infected or abnormal cells.
Step 4: Compare the characteristics of natural killer cells with the other options provided. Neutrophils are primarily involved in phagocytosis and inflammation, dendritic cells specialize in antigen presentation, and macrophages are phagocytic cells that engulf pathogens and debris.
Step 5: Based on the information, identify that natural killer cells are a type of lymphocyte, as they belong to the same category as T cells and B cells, and are distinct from neutrophils, dendritic cells, and macrophages.