Key Immune Cells and their functions (innate)

Innate

Neutrophils

First responders, phagocytosis

Macrophages

big phagocytes, antigen presentation, cytokine release

Dendritic cells

best antigen presenting cells (bridge to adaptive)

Mast cells

release histamine (increases blood flow, attracts immune cells) and trigger inflammation

NK cells

Kill virus infected and cancerous cells (no antibodies needed)

Basophils

Release histamine and heparin (prevents clotting) , allergic responses

Eosinophils

Fight parasites, involved in allergy and asthma