Phagocytic cells
Phagocytic Cells
Phagocytic cells (pronunciation: /fəˈgɒsɪtɪk sɛlz/) are a type of immune cell that have the ability to engulf and destroy pathogens and other foreign substances in the body. The term "phagocytic" comes from the Greek words "phagein," meaning "to eat," and "kytos," meaning "cell."
Types of Phagocytic Cells
There are several types of phagocytic cells, including:
- Neutrophils: These are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are often the first to arrive at the site of an infection.
- Macrophages: These cells are larger and live longer than neutrophils. They are often found in tissues throughout the body.
- Dendritic Cells: These cells are primarily involved in presenting antigens to other immune cells to initiate an immune response.
- Monocytes: These cells circulate in the blood and can differentiate into macrophages or dendritic cells when they enter tissues.
Function
Phagocytic cells function as part of the body's immune system. They are able to recognize and bind to pathogens or damaged cells through a process known as phagocytosis. Once bound, the phagocytic cell engulfs the pathogen or damaged cell, forming a phagosome. The phagosome then fuses with a lysosome, an organelle within the phagocytic cell that contains digestive enzymes. These enzymes break down the pathogen or damaged cell, effectively destroying it.
Related Terms
- Phagocytosis: The process by which phagocytic cells engulf and destroy pathogens or damaged cells.
- Immune System: The body's defense system against pathogens and other foreign substances.
- Pathogen: A bacterium, virus, or other microorganism that can cause disease.
- Antigen: A substance that induces an immune response, especially the production of antibodies.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phagocytic cells
- Wikipedia's article - Phagocytic cells
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