Phagocytosis by neutrophils

Microbes Infect. 2003 Nov;5(14):1299-306. doi: 10.1016/j.micinf.2003.09.014.

Abstract

Phagocytosis is central to the microbicidal function of neutrophils. Pathogens are initially engulfed into a plasma membrane-derived vacuole, the phagosome, which proceeds to acquire degradative properties by a complex process termed maturation. In this chapter, we discuss the current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying phagosome formation and maturation in neutrophils.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Neutrophils / immunology*
  • Phagocytosis* / genetics
  • Phagocytosis* / physiology
  • Phagosomes / physiology
  • Signal Transduction