When operating correctly, the lymphatic system drains extra interstitial fluid and supplies the immune system's defenses, both of which are essential for maintaining homeostasis. To maintain the body's homeostatic equilibrium, it is required to continually combat both internal and external threats. The human body may not appear to be clad in the conventional armor or protective gear that may be worn during battle, sports, or other activities when it must be protected from hazardous substances; however, the body has developed defensive systems to repel possible dangers. One concept that helps preserve homeostasis is phagocytosis.
The process by which a cell engulfs and digests a particle is known as phagocytosis, or "cell eating." When phagocytes devour or engulf other large cells or particles (≥ 0.5 μm), they do so via the plasma membrane, which subsequently forms the phagosome, an inner chamber. Phagocytosis is crucial for the elimination of pathogenic invaders and maintenance of healthy tissues. Without this system, waste would accumulate and hinder the body's ability to fulfill its activities. Additionally, it can help the body eliminate damaged or diseased cells. It is possible for damaged cells in the body to become dysfunctional, age, and ultimately die. Consequently, phagocytes play a function in the body's editing and cleaning processes, and are responsible for detecting and removing any foreign objects that may have been lodged within the body.
As a student nurse with the goal of improving public health through research, understanding phagocytosis will assist in studying microorganisms and their impact on the immune system. The beginning and regulation of phagocytic processes is key to the occurrence of many of the important events in sepsis, including as metabolic alterations, cytokine production, and immunological signaling. This suggests that manipulating monocytes and neutrophils to improve phagocytosis during sepsis might have therapeutic advantages. Larger clinical investigations focusing on phagocytosis are needed to identify potential novel treatment targets for improving the phagocytic process and clearing away infections.
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References:
- Hortová-Kohoutková, M., Tidu, F., De Zuani, M., Šrámek, V., Helán, M., & Frič, J. (2020, November). Phagocytosis–Inflammation Crosstalk in Sepsis: New Avenues for Therapeutic Intervention. SHOCK, 54, 606-614. doi:10.1097/SHK.0000000000001541
- Mosby, C., Ellis, M., & Robb, A. (2022, February 17). Phagocytosis steps, processes, & example: what is phagocytosis? - Video and Lesson Transcript. Retrieved from Study.com: https://study.com/learn/lesson/phagocytosis-steps-process-example.html.html
- Tortora, G. J., & Derrickson, B. H. (2017). Principles of Anatomy and Physiology (15th ed.). Wiley.