Which cells play a key role in the clotting action of blood?

Platelets are essential for the clotting process of blood, which is known as hemostasis. When a blood vessel is injured, platelets quickly adhere to the site of damage and become activated, releasing chemical signals that attract even more platelets to the area. This aggregation forms a temporary "platelet plug" that helps stop further bleeding.

In addition to this initial aggregation, platelets also release substances that promote the formation of fibrin, a protein that weaves through the platelet plug and helps stabilize it by creating a more durable clot. This process is crucial during injury to ensure that bleeding is effectively controlled and to begin the healing process.

Other types of blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and plasma cells, have important functions in the body, including oxygen transport, immune defense, and the production of antibodies, respectively. However, they do not play a direct role in the formation of blood clots. This is why platelets are identified as the key players in the clotting action of blood.