Phagocytes are cells of the immune system that are capable of engulfing various microorganisms and other particles, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even dead cells of the body's own. This is due to their unique ability to phagocytosis - the process of absorption and digestion of foreign particles.
Phagocytosis is an important mechanism for protecting our body from infections and other pathogenic agents. It occurs in several stages:
- Activation of phagocytes - occurs under the influence of various factors, such as bacterial products or immune cells.
- Ingestion of bacteria or other particles by phagocytes occurs through the formation of a phagosome, which surrounds and engulfs the foreign particle.
- Digestion and destruction of particles - the phagocyte uses its enzymes and other mechanisms to digest and destroy ingested particles.
- Release of Residues - Once the process of phagocytosis is complete, the remnants of the ingested particles can be released back into the bloodstream or utilized in other tissues of the body.
The main phagocytic cells are leukocytes (eg, neutrophils and monocytes) and macrophages. Macrophages play a particularly important role in protecting the body from infections, as they are able to engulf and destroy not only bacteria, but also other microorganisms such as fungi and viruses. They also play a role in tissue remodeling and wound healing.
In addition, phagocytes may play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, when they begin to attack the body's own tissues. In such cases, phagocytes become “overloaded” and begin to attack healthy tissue, causing inflammation and joint destruction.
Overall, the body's phagocytic system plays an important role in maintaining health and protecting against infections. However, if it becomes “overloaded” or damaged, it can lead to various diseases and problems.
**Phagocytes** are a family of cells that have the ability to absorb and destroy bacteria, viruses, particles of dead cells and other dangerous objects. They are a key part of the body's immune system, having a significant impact on people's health and well-being. In this article, we will look in more detail at what phagocytes are, what role they play in the body’s defense mechanisms, and what diseases may be associated with their insufficient activity.
**Phagocyte** is a cell that performs an important function in protecting the body from infections and other harmful influences. It is capable of absorbing both living and dead pathogens and other dangerous objects such as cell fragments. This occurs due to the unique properties of the phagocyte membrane, which is capable of changing its structure to increase the absorption surface area. Phagocytes consist of several types of cells, each of which has its own characteristics. One of the most common forms of phagocytes are leukocytes, namely granulocytes and monocytes. Granulocytes perform primarily a supporting function, binding and capturing pathogens, but not causing significant harm to the body. Monocytes, on the contrary, actively absorb and destroy foreign particles, including viruses and malignant neoplasms. Another important form of phagocyte is the macrophage. It differs from other cells in its rapid
Phagocytes: introduction and role in the body
Phagocytes are cells of the human body that can absorb bacteria and foreign particles. These cells have a key role in protecting the body from infections and pathogens. In this article we will look at the main characteristics of phagocytes, their composition and function. We will also look at the different types