blood cell development

Blood cell development, or hematopoiesis, begins in the bone marrow, where stem cells differentiate into various types of blood cells. These stem cells can become red blood cells, which carry oxygen; white blood cells, which fight infection; and platelets, which help with clotting. The process is regulated by growth factors and hormones that signal the stem cells to mature into specific cells as needed, like during illness or injury. This continuous renewal ensures the body maintains a healthy balance of blood components essential for oxygen transport, immune defense, and wound healing.