Which type of cells ingest and destroy bacteria, damaged host cells, and tumor cells?

Prepare for your AAB Medical Technologist MT Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Master your exam!

Macrophages are key players in the immune system, known for their ability to ingest and destroy a wide variety of targets, including bacteria, damaged host cells, and tumor cells. They are derived from monocytes, which circulate in the bloodstream and migrate into tissues where they mature into macrophages. This transition allows macrophages to become highly effective at phagocytosis, the process of engulfing and breaking down cellular debris and pathogens.

One of the main roles of macrophages is antigen presentation, which is crucial for connecting innate and adaptive immunity. When macrophages ingest pathogens, they process and display fragments of these pathogens on their surface, using major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. This allows T lymphocytes to recognize and respond to the specific antigens, further enhancing the immune response.

In addition to their phagocytic activity, macrophages produce a variety of cytokines and chemokines that help orchestrate the overall immune response, attracting other immune cells to the site of infection or damage. Their versatility and coordination in immune responses highlight their essential role in maintaining health and combating disease.

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