The Primary Function of a Phagocyte is To

Question

The primary function of a phagocyte is to
A) destroy pathogens.
B) engulf pathogens.
C) evade pathogens.
D) both engulf and destroy pathogens.

Accepted Answer

Phagocytes, such as macrophages and neutrophils, are white blood cells that have the ability to engulf or "eat" foreign particles, such as pathogens. Once they engulf a pathogen, they then release enzymes and other chemicals to destroy it. Therefore, the primary function of a phagocyte is to both engulf and destroy pathogens.