Which type of leukocyte is primarily responsible for phagocytosis of pathogens?

Neutrophils are primarily responsible for phagocytosis of pathogens due to their role as the first line of defense in the immune system. These white blood cells are highly abundant in the bloodstream and are specifically adapted to rapidly respond to infection or injury. Neutrophils contain various enzymes and antimicrobial substances within their granules that enable them to engulf and digest foreign particles, such as bacteria and fungi.

When the body detects an infection, neutrophils are among the first responders that migrate to the site of infection through a process called chemotaxis. Once they arrive, they can recognize and adhere to pathogens, engulf them through the process of phagocytosis, and subsequently destroy them using their enzymatic arsenal. This effective mechanism of action makes neutrophils crucial in the innate immune response.

In contrast, other types of leukocytes, such as lymphocytes, basophils, and eosinophils, have different primary functions in the immune response. Lymphocytes are primarily involved in adaptive immunity and are responsible for recognizing specific antigens to produce antibodies. Basophils play a role in inflammatory responses and release histamine during allergic reactions, while eosinophils are mainly involved in combating parasitic infections and modulating allergic responses.