
granulocyte/macrophage progenitor cells
Granulocyte/macrophage progenitor cells are early-stage cells in the bone marrow that serve as precursors to specific immune cells. They develop from stem cells and specialize into two main types: granulocytes (like neutrophils, which fight bacteria) and macrophages (which ingest and destroy pathogens and debris). These progenitors are essential for the immune system's ability to respond quickly to infections. They are part of the body's process of producing the various specialized cells needed to defend against illness, ensuring a balanced and effective immune response.