What is the process of phagocytosis

Phagocytosis is the non-specific engulfing and destroying of a pathogen by white blood cells known as phagocytes. On detecting foreign chemicals produced by a pathogen known as cytokines, the phagocyte will be attracted to the pathogen. It will bind its receptors to the pathogen and engulf it. Within the phagocyte the pathogen is held in a vesicle known as a phagosome. Lysosomes, organelles within the phagocyte, will then fuse with this phagosome. They release enzymes known as lysozymes which will hydrolyse the pathogen, destroying it. The products of this digestion will be absorbed into the phagocyte's cytoplasm. Some specific molecules are presented on the phagocyte's surface to act as antigens, which can be used to activate later specific immune responses.

Answered by Katie R. Biology tutor

4924 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is blood glucose controlled in homeostasis?


Describe the structure of proteins


Putting bee honey on a cut kills bacteria. Honey contains a high concentration of sugar. Use your knowledge of water potential to suggest how putting honey on a cut kills bacteria.


How is blood pumped by the heart?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences