Which of the following cells function as phagocytes?
Macrophages
Lymphocytes
Erythrocytes
Mast cells
The Correct Answer is A
A. Macrophages: macrophages are professional phagocytes that engulf pathogens, debris, and dead cells.
B. Lymphocytes: lymphocytes mainly provide adaptive immune responses (antibody production, cell-mediated cytotoxicity), not primary phagocytosis.
C. Erythrocytes: red blood cells transport oxygen and do not phagocytose.
D. Mast cells: mast cells release histamine and inflammatory mediators; they are not primary phagocytes.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Antigens in solution: cytotoxic T cells (CD8⁺) recognize antigen presented on MHC I of cells, not free/soluble antigens in plasma.
B. Cancer cells and virally infected cells: cytotoxic T cells detect abnormal peptides on MHC I and kill virally infected or neoplastically transformed (cancer) host cells.
C. Antigen-presenting cells: Partially misleading -professional APCs present antigen on MHC II to helper T cells; cytotoxic T cells usually target infected or abnormal host cells (though APCs can present antigen on MHC I and theoretically be targeted).
D. Helper T cells: helper T cells (CD4⁺) are immune coordinators, not the usual targets of cytotoxic T cells.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. To produce enzymes that dissolve blood clots: fibrinolytic enzymes (e.g., plasmin) handle clot breakdown; lymphocytes are not responsible for that.
B. To act against foreign substances: lymphocytes (B cells, T cells, NK cells) are central to adaptive immunity and target pathogens/foreign antigens.
C. To phagocytize damaged cells: phagocytosis is mainly done by macrophages and neutrophils, not lymphocytes.
D. To release substances that initiate blood clots: platelets and clotting factor pathways initiate clotting; lymphocytes do not.
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