Researchers from La Trobe University used time-lapse microscopy to record the death of a monocyte, a kind of white blood cell. Previously, researchers believed that white blood cells randomly broke apart during death; however, this study showed that as the cell died it produced structures that are being called ‘beads’.
The cell produced a long bead like protrusions that look like beads on a string. This then breaks into individual beads. Scientists believe that not only do these beads make it easier to clear up the cell debris but they may also contain molecules that alert the other cells of the immune system of a pathogen that has infected the body. The researchers also think that certain viruses might hide in these beads and then use them to spread in the body. Another interesting thing that they found was that beads’ formation was blocked by certain antidepressants whereas a certain antibiotic can promote their formation.
Summary courtesy by Waleed Khan
Reference: Nature Communications PDF