Phagocytic

Phagocytosis is the process by which a cell engulfs a solid particle to form an internal compartment known as a phagosome. This process is involved in the immune system's response to foreign bodies and is also essential for tissue homeostasis and remodeling.

Overview

Phagocytosis is a specific form of endocytosis involving the vesicular internalization of solid particles, such as bacteria. It is distinguished from other forms of endocytosis by the size of the vesicle formed and the mechanisms of vesicle formation.

Process

The process of phagocytosis begins with the binding of opsonized particles to cell surface receptors on the phagocyte. This binding induces the cell to extend pseudopods around the particle, eventually engulfing it. The phagosome then fuses with a lysosome to form a phagolysosome, where the particle is degraded.

Role in Immunity

Phagocytosis plays a crucial role in the immune response to infection. Macrophages and neutrophils, two types of phagocytic cells, are key components of the innate immune system. They engulf and destroy pathogens, and also present antigens to T cells, initiating the adaptive immune response.

See Also

• Endocytosis
• Macrophage
• Neutrophil
• Immune system

Phagocytic Resources
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References

External Links

• Phagocytosis - Molecular Biology of the Cell
• Phagocytosis - Britannica

Further Reading

• The Phagocytic Function of Macrophage-Enforcing Innate Immunity and Tissue Homeostasis
• Phagocytosis: An Immunobiologic Process