Which of the Following Statements About Eosinophil Function is CORRECT

Question

Which of the following statements about eosinophil function is CORRECT?
A) They produce defensins.
B) They secrete toxins onto virally infected cells.
C) They are involved in the removal of neoplastic cells.
D) They attach to the surface of parasitic helminths and produce toxins that kill the parasite.
E) They identify and spare normal cells.

Accepted Answer

Eosinophils attach to the surface of parasitic helminths (worms) and produce toxins that kill the parasite, which is an important defense mechanism against parasitic infections. They do not produce defensins or secrete toxins onto virally infected cells, and are not typically involved in the removal of neoplastic cells. While eosinophils may spare some normal cells, they are also known to contribute to inflammation and tissue damage in certain conditions.