Summary
Cells such as macrophages engulf and digest pathogens in a vesicle.
In depth
Receptors on phagocytes bind pathogens (often tagged by antibodies or complement, called opsonisation). The phagosome fuses with lysosomes to create a phagolysosome with reactive oxygen species and enzymes. Macrophages present antigens to T cells.
Phagocytes crawl by chemotaxis towards signals such as fMLP. Engulfed pathogens face acid, enzymes and oxidative burst. Some bacteria such as Mycobacterium evade killing.
Remember: macrophages also clear dead cells and debris.
Frequently asked questions
What is Phagocytosis?
Cells such as macrophages engulf and digest pathogens in a vesicle.
Which area of biology covers Phagocytosis, and how advanced is it?
Phagocytosis is one of the 52 topics in Immunology & Disease. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Antibodies, Innate Immunity, Complement System.
Can you give an example of Phagocytosis?
Chronic granulomatous disease arises from defective oxidative burst.
What should I learn before Phagocytosis?
Work through the Beginner topics in Immunology & Disease first, such as Immune System, Viruses, Innate Immunity, then return to Phagocytosis. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Phagocytosis?
The closest topics to Phagocytosis are Antibodies, Innate Immunity, Complement System, Blood Groups and Transfusion. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Phagocytosis?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Phagocytosis. To practise the whole of Immunology & Disease, use the Immunology & Disease quiz.
How is Phagocytosis different from Antibodies?
Phagocytosis: Cells such as macrophages engulf and digest pathogens in a vesicle. Antibodies: Y-shaped proteins made by B cells that bind specific antigens and mark them for destruction. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Phagocytosis step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Antibodies and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Immunology & Disease quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.