Question

Heparin is produced by
A) Liver Cell
B) Plasma Cell
C) Blood Cell
D) Both A and C

Answer 1

In 1916, heparin was discovered. It is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan (negatively charged polysaccharide compound). It prevents the formation of blood clots hence it acts as an anticoagulant.

Complete Answer:

1. Liver cells: Liver cells are found in the organ liver. They are also called hepatocytes. They secrete a fluid called a bile which helps in digestion.

2. Plasma cells: Plasma cells develop from a type of white blood cells i.e. B cells in the bone marrow. Their function is to provide immunization.

3. Blood cells:
   Blood cells are of three types:
   (I) Erythrocytes (Red Blood Cells) : These cells contain haemoglobin which gives red colour to blood and helps in transport of oxygen into the cells or carbon dioxide out of the cells.
   (II) Leukocytes (White blood cells): White blood cells provide defense to our body.
   (III) Thrombocytes (Platelets): Platelets help in blood clotting.

Production of Heparin:
- Heparins can be produced naturally in the body and it can also be produced in the laboratory.
- In the body, it is produced by the lung, liver cells as well as the blood cells (mast cells and basophils).
- It can also be produced by the mucosal tissues of animals like pigs and cattles.

Therefore, Heparins are produced by both liver cells as well as blood cells so the option C(Both A and C) will be the correct one.

Note: Heparin is produced by lung cells also in the body. Heparins can be used to prevent blood clots in various types of medical procedures.