Phagocyte
A phagocyte is a cell that ingests (and destroys) foreign matter, such as microorganisms or debris via a process known as phagocytosis, in which these cells ingest and kill offending cells by cellular digestion. These phagocytes are extremely useful as an initial immune system response to tissue damage.
Different Types
There are two types of phagocytes: polymorphonuclear leucocytes and macrophages. Both types are useful for different roles in the immune system. While polymorphonuclear leucocytes typically respond swiftly and efficiently to danger, they are not adapted for sustained battles. On the other hand, macrophages are adapted to engulf and digest almost any foreign agent.
Polymorphonuclear leucocytes
The polymorphonuclear leucocytes includes neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils. Neutrophils are the most abundant kind of phagocytes. They are meant to reduce bacterial cells to simple molecular pieces by means of ingesting, killing, and digesting them. Eosinophils secrete special enzymes intended to create holes in parasitic worms. Finally, basophils secrete substances (like histamine) which prevents inflammation from stopping right after it starts. This lengthens the process of inflammation.
Macrophages
Macrophages are vital for sustained battles against foreign agents. They are adapted especially for this, and engulf and digest practically any foreign agent. In addition, they help to clean up damaged tissues. Immature macrophages which are circulating in the bloodstream are called monocytes. These macrophages are initially slow to react; however, when they are unleashed, they are 'killing machines'- fully consuming almost any foreign agent. Both macrophages and polymorphonuclear leucocytes are vital to the immune system, and serve many useful functions to protect us against the danger of foreign agents.
