noun
- the process by which a cell engulfs and absorbs foreign particles, bacteria, or other cells
Usage: biology; immunology
Examples
- White blood cells use phagocytosis to destroy harmful bacteria in the body.
- The immune system relies on phagocytosis to remove dead cells and debris.
- Macrophages are specialized cells that perform phagocytosis to clean up infections.
- During phagocytosis, the cell membrane surrounds and engulfs the foreign material.
- Scientists studied phagocytosis to understand how the body fights disease.
- The process of phagocytosis helps maintain tissue health by removing waste products.