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  • Phagocytes: The White Blood Cells That Destroy Bacteria - Types & Functions
    White blood cells that engulf and destroy bacteria are called phagocytes.

    There are two main types of phagocytes:

    * Neutrophils: These are the most common type of white blood cell and are the first responders to infection. They are highly effective at killing bacteria.

    * Macrophages: These are larger than neutrophils and have a longer lifespan. They can engulf larger particles and also play a role in initiating the immune response.

    Both neutrophils and macrophages use a process called phagocytosis to engulf and destroy bacteria. This involves:

    1. Chemotaxis: The phagocytes are attracted to the site of infection by chemical signals released by the bacteria.

    2. Adherence: The phagocyte attaches to the bacteria.

    3. Ingestion: The phagocyte engulfs the bacteria, forming a phagosome.

    4. Digestion: The phagosome fuses with a lysosome, which contains enzymes that break down the bacteria.

    So, while there are many types of white blood cells, the ones responsible for engulfing and destroying bacteria are called phagocytes.

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