Definition of phagocyte in English:
phagocyte
noun ˈfaɡə(ʊ)sʌɪtˈfæɡəˌsaɪt
Physiology A type of cell within the body capable of engulfing and absorbing bacteria and other small cells and particles.
Example sentencesExamples
- Histologic studies have shown polymetric birefringent particles surrounded by mononuclear phagocytes and multinucleated foreign body giant cells.
- Endothelial cells and mononuclear phagocytes are likely cellular mediators of lung IRI.
- Clearance of apoptotic cells by phagocytes is crucial in maintaining tissue homeostasis.
- Fc receptors mediate various effects on immune cells, including proliferation of B cells and phagocytosis by phagocytes.
- Following IVIG therapy in patients with ITP, platelet counts generally rise, apparently by Fc receptor blockade of splenic phagocytes and other reticuloendothelial cells.
Derivatives
adjective faɡə(ʊ)ˈsɪtɪk
Physiology We hypothesized that AMs may be the primary cells responding to CpG motifs, because they are situated at the first-line defense in the lower respiratory tract with potent phagocytic capacity.
Example sentencesExamples
- Neutrophils and monocytes are the most phagocytic of the white blood cells; they ingest foreign particles, bacteria, and degenerating cells and cell fragments whether or not they can digest them.
- Products of complement activation cause smooth muscle contraction and increased vascular permeability and induce degranulation of phagocytic cells, mast cells, and basophils.
- Finally, we determined whether PPAR [gamma] activation increased CD36 expression by human AMs, and consequently augmented their phagocytic capacity for apoptotic neutrophils.
- Neupogen can enhance the phagocytic activities of neutrophilic leukocytes; including activity directed at autologous platelets.
Origin
Late 19th century: from Greek phago- 'eating' (from the verb phagein) + -cyte.