Explain the process of phagocytosis

The first stage of phagocytosis is named chemotaxis. This stage involves the migration of the phagocyte (a type of lymphocyte/ white blood cell) towards a pathogen. This occurs due to foreign antigens (non self) being detected on the surface of the pathogen.After reaching the pathogen, the phagocyte ingests the pathogen and encloses it in a phagosome.Once enclosed, the phagosome fuses with an existing lysosome inside of the phagocyte. This forms a phagolysosome. The lysosome contains a hydrolytic enzyme named lysozyme, which hydrolyses the pathogen, therefore destroying it.The waste material is discharged from the phagocyte and is unable to cause harm to the body.

Answered by Grace L. Biology tutor

2103 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do the alveoli within the lungs create an efficient gas exchange surface?


Describe the main differences between mitosis and meiosis


What are the characteristic properties of the genetic code?


What are some differences between RNA and DNA?


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