Fagocitálja

Fagocitálja is a Hungarian verb that translates to "to phagocytose" or "to engulf" in English. It refers to the biological process by which certain cells, known as phagocytes, engulf and internalize foreign particles, dead cells, or cellular debris. This process is crucial for various biological functions, including immune defense, tissue homeostasis, and development.

Phagocytes, such as macrophages and neutrophils, play a vital role in the immune system. They identify and engulf pathogens like bacteria and viruses, thereby eliminating them from the body. The engulfed material is then enclosed within a membrane-bound vesicle called a phagosome. This phagosome fuses with lysosomes, which contain digestive enzymes, leading to the breakdown and destruction of the engulfed substance.

Beyond immunity, phagocytosis is also involved in clearing away dead or damaged cells from tissues. This process, called efferocytosis, is essential for maintaining tissue integrity and preventing the accumulation of cellular waste. In developmental biology, phagocytosis can also play a role in shaping tissues and organs by removing excess cells during embryogenesis. The term "fagocitálja" encapsulates this entire engulfment and subsequent internal degradation process performed by specialized cells.