Amebotsüüdi

Amebotsüüdi (amebocyte) is a type of cell that moves by amoeboid movement and is found in a range of invertebrates and some sponges. In sponges, archaeocytes (the sponge amoebocytes) are totipotent cells that perform digestion, transport nutrients, secrete skeletal elements, and differentiate into other cell types such as porocytes or choanocytes as needed. In other invertebrates, amebocytes circulate in body fluids and participate in innate immune defense by phagocytosing bacteria and debris, encapsulating large invaders, and contributing to wound healing and tissue repair. They move by extending cytoplasmic processes (pseudopodia), allowing them to change shape and migrate through the extracellular matrix or tissue spaces. The appearance of amebocytes is variable, reflecting their functional state and species.

Amebotsüüdi are considered an ancient and versatile cell type, illustrating the use of amoeboid movement for feeding, defense, and development in animals. They should not be confused with pathogenic amoebae that cause human disease.