Question

Which of the following is a TRUE statement regarding the comparison between mammalian platelets and lymphocytes?

a. platelets do not have a nucleus in contrast to the lymphocyte
b. platelets are similar in size to the lymphocyte
c. platelets have darker blue cytoplasm than the lymphocyte
d. platelets do not have cytoplasmic granules, in contrast to the lymphocyte

Answer 1

Platelets do not have a nucleus whereas lymphocytes do. Platelets are cytoplasmic fragments from megakaryocytes, while lymphocytes are full cells essential for the immune system.

Step-by-step explanation:

a. platelets do not have a nucleus in contrast to the lymphocyte. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are cytoplasmic fragments released from megakaryocytes in the bone marrow and are enveloped by a plasma membrane. They do not contain a nucleus. In contrast, lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell, are fully functional cells with a nucleus. Lymphocytes vary in size but are generally around 6-17 µm in diameter, and they play critical roles in the immune system. It's also important to note that platelets and lymphocytes have different stained appearances under the microscope, with lymphocytes typically exhibiting a halo effect due to a higher nucleus-to-cytoplasm ratio.