What is the function of a megakaryocyte?

What is the function of a megakaryocyte?

• A. Produces granulocytes
• B. Phagocytosis
• C. Produces plasma cells
• D. Produces thrombocytes

Answer: (D)

Megakaryocytes produce thrombocytes (platelets). In the bone marrow, these large cells extend cytoplasmic processes into blood vessels and release small, anucleate fragments called platelets. Platelets circulate to plug leaks and support the coagulation cascade during hemostasis. This differs from granulocytes, which are produced by other progenitors and mature into neutrophils, eosinophils, or basophils; phagocytosis is carried out by cells like neutrophils and macrophages; and plasma cells are antibody-producing cells derived from B cells. So the key function of a megakaryocyte is to generate platelets.

Megakaryocytes produce thrombocytes (platelets). In the bone marrow, these large cells extend cytoplasmic processes into blood vessels and release small, anucleate fragments called platelets. Platelets circulate to plug leaks and support the coagulation cascade during hemostasis. This differs from granulocytes, which are produced by other progenitors and mature into neutrophils, eosinophils, or basophils; phagocytosis is carried out by cells like neutrophils and macrophages; and plasma cells are antibody-producing cells derived from B cells. So the key function of a megakaryocyte is to generate platelets.