Monoblasts give rise to which type of cell?

Monoblasts are the precursor cells that differentiate into monocytes, which play a critical role in the immune system. Monoblasts are found in the bone marrow and are part of the myeloid lineage of cells. As they mature, monoblasts undergo several stages of differentiation to become monocytes, which are then released into the bloodstream. Monocytes can further differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells once they migrate into tissues, where they are crucial for phagocytosis and presenting antigens to T cells.

The other options presented either correspond to entirely different lineages or functions that do not derive from monoblasts. Neutrophils, while also part of the myeloid lineage, originate from myeloblasts and have different roles in the immune response. Erythrocytes, or red blood cells, are derived from erythroblasts and are specifically responsible for oxygen transport in the blood. Platelets, on the other hand, are fragments of megakaryocytes and play a key role in blood clotting. Understanding these distinct pathways of cell differentiation emphasizes the unique role monoblasts play in generating monocytes, which are vital for immune function.