Which of the Following is True of the Platelet

Question

Which of the following is true of the platelet?
A) Is derived from the megakaryocyte
B) Is phagocytic
C) Has a half-life of 3 months
D) Is a mature reticulocyte

Accepted Answer

Platelets are derived from the fragmentation of megakaryocytes in the bone marrow. They do not have the ability to phagocytose as they lack a nucleus and other organelles. Platelets have a very short half-life, only surviving for about 8-10 days in circulation. They are not reticulocytes, but rather a unique type of blood cell.