Functions of Monocytes
The main function of monocytes in the body is to help the body fight against infections. They are the largest type of white blood cells, which is around 3 to 4 times the size of red blood cells. Subsets of monocytes come with different protein tags or markers on the outside. Depending on the situation, these subsets might behave variedly. When the body is exposed to pathogens, monocytes are transformed into macrophages, another form of white blood cells. They will signal other body cells that an infection is occurring. Together, they kill and remove microorganisms to protect against infections and foreign substances. [3]