How does phagocytosis work?

The phagocyte will be attracted to a pathogen and move to it via chemotaxis. The phagocyte then engulfs the pathogen. Once the pathogen is inside the phagocyte, it is enclosed in a phagosome (essentially a bubble to contain the pathogen). The phagosome then fuses with a lysosome, becoming a phagolysosome. The lysosome releases its enzymes, lysozymes, which break down the pathogen. The waste products are then absorbed by phagocyte so they are no longer harmful to the body.

CW
Answered by Catherine W. Biology tutor

2793 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is selective reabsorption acheived in the kidneys?


what is the structure of a photosystem?


Describe what is meant by the double circulation system of the heart.


Why does an enzyme only catalyse one reaction?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning