A. Lymphocyte B. Monocyte C. Basophil D. Eosinophil E. Neutrophil Which of the following is considered phagocytize small particles? Most prevalent leukocytes in a sample of blood from a healthy adult?
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is E. Neutrophil.
Neutrophils are the most prevalent leukocytes (white blood cells) in a healthy adult’s blood, accounting for approximately 50-70% of the total white blood cell count. They are considered the first responders in the immune system’s defense against bacterial infections. Neutrophils play a key role in phagocytosis, which is the process by which cells engulf and digest foreign particles, microorganisms, or debris.
These cells are particularly efficient at phagocytizing small particles such as bacteria and dead cells. Their ability to recognize and capture pathogens is critical for initiating the inflammatory response. Neutrophils contain enzymes and antimicrobial substances that help them break down ingested particles and kill pathogens. After the engulfment of pathogens, neutrophils can release enzymes that destroy the microorganisms or secrete substances to recruit other immune cells to the infection site.
Neutrophils are short-lived cells, typically surviving only for a few hours to a few days. During their brief life span, they can perform numerous phagocytic actions to eliminate pathogens. After they complete their task, they undergo apoptosis (programmed cell death), which is a regulated process that helps to maintain tissue homeostasis and prevent further inflammation.
In addition to neutrophils, other white blood cells such as monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils also contribute to immune defense, but they do so in different ways. For example, monocytes can differentiate into macrophages, which are also important phagocytic cells. However, neutrophils remain the most abundant and versatile phagocytes, making them crucial in the early stages of the immune response.
Thus, neutrophils are both the most prevalent leukocytes in normal blood samples and are key players in phagocytosis, especially in the defense against bacterial infections.