PHAGOCYTOSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Phagocytosis is a biological process by which specialized cells, known as phagocytes, engulf and digest foreign particles, microorganisms, cellular debris, or other materials. It is an essential mechanism of the innate immune system for detecting and eliminating potentially harmful substances or pathogens.
During phagocytosis, phagocytes recognize and bind to the target through various cell surface receptors. These receptors may recognize specific molecular patterns on the surface of the foreign particle or pathogen, triggering the phagocyte's response. Once attached, the phagocyte extends pseudopodia (reaching out projections) to surround the target, eventually enclosing it within a membrane-bound vesicle called a phagosome. The phagosome is then transported into the cytoplasm of the phagocyte.
Inside the phagocyte, the phagosome fuses with lysosomes, forming a phagolysosome. The lysosomes contain digestive enzymes, such as proteases and nucleases, which break down the engulfed material into smaller fragments that can be easily eliminated. This degradation process allows the phagocyte to extract essential nutrients from the digested material and also plays a critical role in antigen presentation, helping to initiate an adaptive immune response.
Phagocytosis occurs in various cell types, including macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. These cells play important roles in defending against infections, maintaining tissue homeostasis, and clearing cellular debris. Dysfunction in phagocytosis can lead to impaired immune responses, increased susceptibility to infections, and the development of inflammatory diseases.
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The process of ingestion and digestion by the cells; most of the cells of the body which are concerned in nutrition possess this property; the substances ingested are other cells, bacteria, bits of necrosed tissue, foreign particles, etc.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PHAGOCYTOSIS
Etymology of PHAGOCYTOSIS
The word "phagocytosis" is derived from the Greek words "phagein" meaning "to eat" and "kytos" meaning "cell". It was coined by Élie Metchnikoff in the late 19th century to describe the cellular process in which certain specialized cells, known as phagocytes, engulf and ingest particles, such as bacteria or cellular debris, thereby playing a crucial role in the immune response and defense against infections.
Similar spelling words for PHAGOCYTOSIS
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