Steps of Phagocytosis

Vocabulary flashcards detailing the seven sequential steps involved in phagocytosis.

Chemotaxis

Directed movement of phagocytes toward the infection site in response to chemical signals.

Adhesion

Attachment of phagocytes to the pathogen via PRRs binding to PAMPs.

Engulfment

Phagocyte membrane surrounds and internalizes the microbe.

Phagosome Formation

The internalized microbe becomes enclosed in a membrane-bound vacuole called a phagosome.

Phagolysosome Formation and Killing

Fusion of lysosomes with the phagosome releases enzymes and reactive oxygen species that kill the microbe.

Destruction

Enzymatic and chemical breakdown of the ingested microbe inside the phagolysosome.

Elimination

Expulsion of residual waste from the phagocyte via exocytosis.