Which type of white blood cell is known for phagocytosis and destruction of pathogens?

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that play a critical role in the immune response, particularly through their ability to perform phagocytosis. They are the most abundant type of granulocyte and are often the first responders to sites of infection. When pathogens such as bacteria invade the body, neutrophils migrate to the affected area where they engulf and destroy these microorganisms.

Their effectiveness in phagocytosis is supported by various mechanisms, including the release of enzymes and reactive oxygen species that help break down the ingested pathogens. Neutrophils also contribute to the inflammatory response, which is an essential part of the body's defense mechanism against infections.

While other white blood cells contribute to the immune response in various ways—eosinophils primarily deal with parasitic infections and allergic reactions, basophils play a role in inflammatory responses and allergies, and lymphocytes are crucial for adaptive immunity—the distinctive function of neutrophils in phagocytosis and immediate defense against pathogens solidifies their role as key players in innate immunity.