Fagotsüütidele

Fagotsüütidele, more commonly known as phagocytes, are a type of white blood cell within the immune system. Their primary function is to engulf and digest cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, cancer cells, and anything else that does not have the type of proteins specific to healthy body cells on its surface. This process is called phagocytosis.

Phagocytes play a crucial role in defending the body against infection and in initiating the healing process. There are several types of phagocytes, including neutrophils, macrophages, monocytes, and dendritic cells. Neutrophils are typically the first responders to sites of infection, while macrophages, which develop from monocytes, are larger and can engulf larger particles. Dendritic cells are important for presenting antigens to other immune cells, thereby initiating an adaptive immune response.

The mechanism of phagocytosis involves the phagocyte extending its cell membrane to surround the target particle, forming a vesicle called a phagosome. This phagosome then fuses with lysosomes, which contain digestive enzymes and other antimicrobial substances. The contents of the phagosome are broken down and eliminated by the phagocyte. This cellular "eating" is essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and preventing the spread of pathogens.