Charlie Murphy, Monocytes, 2015, clear and coloured borosilicate glass
Photo Charlie Murphy
Collection : The European Haematology Association
A Monocyte is a type of white cell with immune function that is found in small numbers in the blood stream. When they leave the circulation, they become macrophages or dendritic cells. Monocytes are important as they surround and kill foreign material and recruit other cells in the immune system to prevent/deal with infection. Like many types of white cells monocytes can undergo malignant change.
Inspirations, themes & references
Advanced medical imagery, cell models, historic Blashka glass models of sea creatures and plant life , dialogues with Professor of Haematology Shaun McCann, Trinity College, Dublin (Co Curator of Science Gallery Dublin exhibition Blood- Not for the Fainthearted)