How does phagocytosis work?

The phagocyte will be attracted to a pathogen and move to it via chemotaxis. The phagocyte then engulfs the pathogen. Once the pathogen is inside the phagocyte, it is enclosed in a phagosome (essentially a bubble to contain the pathogen). The phagosome then fuses with a lysosome, becoming a phagolysosome. The lysosome releases its enzymes, lysozymes, which break down the pathogen. The waste products are then absorbed by phagocyte so they are no longer harmful to the body.

CW
Answered by Catherine W. Biology tutor

2751 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How are phospholipids arranged in the cell membrane?


What is the difference between transcription and translation?


How is blood pumped by the heart?


Describe the structure and bonding that contributes to a functional protein.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning