EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Macrophages are effector cells of the innate immune system that phagocytose bacteria and secrete both pro-inflammatory and antimicrobial mediators. In addition, macrophages play an important role in eliminating diseased and damaged cells through their programmed cell death.

Detailed explanation-2: -A type of white blood cell that surrounds and kills microorganisms, removes dead cells, and stimulates the action of other immune system cells.

Detailed explanation-3: -Macrophages are activated by membrane-bound signals delivered by activated TH1 cells as well as by the potent macrophage-activating cytokine IFN-, which is secreted by activated T cells. Once activated, the macrophage can kill intracellular and ingested bacteria.

Detailed explanation-4: -This is called phagocytosis. First, the macrophage surrounds the unwanted particle and sucks it in. Then, the macrophage breaks it down by mixing it with enzymes stored in special sacs called lysosomes.

Detailed explanation-5: -Macrophages are formed through the differentiation of monocytes, one of the major groups of white blood cells of the immune system. When there is tissue damage or infection, the monocytes leave the bloodstream and enter the affected tissue or organ and undergo a series of changes to become macrophages.