SPONTANEOUS PHAGOCYTOSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Spontaneous phagocytosis refers to the natural or unprovoked process by which certain cells in the immune system, primarily phagocytes, engulf and eliminate foreign particles or dead cells in the body without any external stimuli or signals. Phagocytosis itself is a complex cellular process crucial for the body's defense against pathogens and removal of cellular debris. It is primarily carried out by specialized immune cells called phagocytes, which include macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells.
Spontaneous phagocytosis occurs when phagocytes recognize and engulf foreign particles or dead cells due to their inherent ability and efficiency in detecting and eliminating them. In this process, phagocytes extend their cell membrane around the target particle, forming a phagosome that encloses the foreign substance. This structure then fuses with an enzyme-filled lysosome, forming a phagolysosome, in which the engulfed particles are broken down and degraded.
Spontaneous phagocytosis plays a vital role in innate immunity, as it helps maintain tissue homeostasis, remove cellular waste, and prevent infection by constantly patrolling and clearing the body of potential threats. It serves as a crucial first-line defense mechanism against invading microorganisms or other hazardous materials that may enter the body, even in the absence of an apparent infection or injury. Thus, spontaneous phagocytosis contributes significantly to the overall effectiveness of the immune system in maintaining health and preventing disease.
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P. occurring when a culture of bacteria is brought in contact with washed leucocytes in an indifferent medium, such as a physiological salt solution.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPONTANEOUS PHAGOCYTOSIS
- apontaneous phagocytosis
- zpontaneous phagocytosis
- xpontaneous phagocytosis
- dpontaneous phagocytosis
- epontaneous phagocytosis
- wpontaneous phagocytosis
- soontaneous phagocytosis
- slontaneous phagocytosis
- s-ontaneous phagocytosis
- s0ontaneous phagocytosis
- spintaneous phagocytosis
- spkntaneous phagocytosis
- splntaneous phagocytosis
- sppntaneous phagocytosis
- sp0ntaneous phagocytosis
- sp9ntaneous phagocytosis
- spobtaneous phagocytosis
- spomtaneous phagocytosis
- spojtaneous phagocytosis
- spohtaneous phagocytosis
Etymology of SPONTANEOUS PHAGOCYTOSIS
The word "spontaneous" comes from the Latin word "spontaneus", which means "of one's own accord, willingly". It is derived from the Latin word "sponte", meaning "of one's free will". "Phagocytosis", on the other hand, is derived from the Greek words "phagein", meaning "to eat", and "kytos", meaning "cell". When combined, "phagocytosis" refers to the process wherein a cell engulfs and internalizes solid particles, such as microorganisms or cellular debris. Therefore, "spontaneous phagocytosis" refers to the natural or voluntary engulfment of particles by cells without any external stimulation or intervention.
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