Phagocytic
Phagocytic
Phagocytic (pronunciation: /fæɡəˈsaɪtɪk/) is an adjective that describes the process or ability of a cell to engulf and absorb bacteria, dead tissue, or other small particles. The term is derived from the Greek words "phagein," meaning "to eat," and "kytos," meaning "cell."
Phagocytic cells are a crucial part of the immune system, as they are responsible for the removal of harmful substances from the body. They are primarily found in the bloodstream and tissues and include types such as neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells.
Etymology
The term "phagocytic" is derived from the Greek words "phagein," which means "to eat," and "kytos," which means "cell." This term was first used in the late 19th century to describe the process by which certain cells engulf and absorb foreign substances.
Related Terms
- Phagocytosis: The process by which a cell engulfs a solid particle to form an internal compartment known as a phagosome.
- Phagocyte: A type of cell that is capable of phagocytosis.
- Macrophage: A type of phagocytic cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, and cancer cells.
- Neutrophil: A type of white blood cell that is one of the first cell types to travel to the site of an infection. Neutrophils are phagocytic and tend to self-destruct as they destroy foreign invaders.
- Dendritic Cell: A type of immune cell that is specialized in processing and presenting antigens. They act as messengers between the innate and adaptive immune systems.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phagocytic
- Wikipedia's article - Phagocytic
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