Mar

20

2023

Monocytes

By Charlie Murphy

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)