IGCSE Biology glossary
Phagocyte
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Definition
A type of white blood cell that destroys pathogens by engulfing and digesting them in a process called phagocytosis. Phagocytes are non-specific: they attack any foreign particle and do not produce antibodies.
What to include in an exam answer
Describe phagocytosis in steps: the phagocyte detects the pathogen, engulfs it by surrounding it with its cell membrane, encloses it in a vacuole, and digests it with enzymes. Use 'engulf' not 'eat'.
Example in context
Describe how a phagocyte destroys a bacterium (3 marks): The phagocyte recognises the bacterium as foreign. It engulfs the bacterium by wrapping its cell membrane around it. The bacterium is enclosed in a vacuole where enzymes digest and destroy it.
Related syllabus topic
Diseases & immunity