macrophage processing


macrophage processing

The mechanism by which foreign antigens are taken into the macrophage by phagocytosis and broken up. Part of the antigen is then displayed on the surface of the macrophage next to a histocompatibility or self-antigen activating T lymphocytes and the specific immune response. T lymphocytes are unable to recognize or respond to most antigens without macrophage assistance. See also: processing