How Does Your Body Eat Bacteria?
Phagocytes are specialized immune cells that hunt, capture, and destroy harmful bacteria to prevent infections.
These white blood cells detect chemical signals released by invaders and navigate toward them. They surround and engulf bacteria through a process called phagocytosis—literally "cell eating." Once trapped inside, powerful enzymes destroy the bacteria completely. These tireless sentries patrol your body around the clock to keep you healthy.
Nerd Mode
Phagocytes were first discovered in 1882 by Russian biologist Ilya Mechnikov, who observed them in starfish larvae. His pioneering research earned him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1908. These cells form a cornerstone of the innate immune system and include neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type, comprising 50% to 70% of all white blood cells in the human body.The process begins with chemotaxis, in which phagocytes follow chemical signals released by pathogens or damaged tissues. Upon reaching their target, they use surface receptors to bind to the bacteria. The cell membrane then engulfs the invader, creating a compartment called a phagosome that isolates the pathogen from the rest of the cell.To neutralize the threat, the phagosome fuses with a lysosome to form a phagolysosome. Inside this chamber, the cell releases reactive oxygen species and digestive enzymes such as lysozyme and proteases. These powerful chemicals dismantle the bacterial cell wall and DNA within minutes. A single macrophage can destroy up to 100 bacteria before eventually exhausting itself and dying.
Verified Fact
FP-0003042 · Feb 17, 2026