Phagocytosis

Phagocytosis is the process by which foreign particle invading the body are engulfed by some

white blood cells know as phagocytes. This non specific defense mechanism, involves

leukocytes, known as neutrophils and monocytes and macrophages. Phagocytosis is a form of

endocytosis and involves several steps. First the phagocyte adheres to the specific pathogen or

debris. This triggers the phagocyte to then form a psedopod that will eventually engulf the

particle, thus forming a phagosome. Next, Lysomes fuse with the phagocytic vesicle, forming a

phagolysosome. The lysosmal enzymes will then digest the particles, leaving a residual body.

Finally exocytosis of the vesicle removes indigestible and residual material.