The primary function of neutrophils is phagocytosis, the ingestion and destruction of microorganisms or other foreign particles. For this reason, neutrophils are classified as phagocytes. Neutrophils are the first WBC to migrate to the site of an infection.
When a neutrophil encounters a microorganism or foreign particle, phagocytosis begins. The neutrophil carries out the following steps during phagocytosis:
- The neutrophil identifies a foreign material.
- The neutrophil extends pseudopods around the foreign material.
- The neutrophil engulfs it.
- Digestive enzymes present in the neutrophilic granules are released into the vacuole containing the foreign particle, and the particle is destroyed.
In most cases, a mild infection enhances the function of neutrophils, while a severe infection impairs their function.
