Which cell type is most directly involved in phagocytosis in the innate immune response?

Which cell type is most directly involved in phagocytosis in the innate immune response?

• A. Red blood cell
• B. White blood cell
• C. Platelet
• D. Antibody

Answer: (B)

Phagocytosis in the innate immune response is carried out directly by phagocytes, which are white blood cells such as neutrophils and macrophages. These cells recognize pathogens, engulf them into phagosomes, and then digest them using lysosomal enzymes. Red blood cells don’t participate in immune defense, platelets are mainly involved in clotting, and antibodies are proteins produced by B cells that tag pathogens but are not cells that perform phagocytosis themselves. Therefore, white blood cells are the key players directly responsible for phagocytosis.

Phagocytosis in the innate immune response is carried out directly by phagocytes, which are white blood cells such as neutrophils and macrophages. These cells recognize pathogens, engulf them into phagosomes, and then digest them using lysosomal enzymes. Red blood cells don’t participate in immune defense, platelets are mainly involved in clotting, and antibodies are proteins produced by B cells that tag pathogens but are not cells that perform phagocytosis themselves. Therefore, white blood cells are the key players directly responsible for phagocytosis.