What is the primary function of phagocytes in the immune system?

The primary function of phagocytes in the immune system is to engulf and digest pathogens. Phagocytes, which include various types of white blood cells such as macrophages and neutrophils, play a crucial role in the body's defense against infections. When they encounter pathogens like bacteria or viruses, they are activated to surround and ingest these harmful agents through a process called phagocytosis. Once the pathogens are internalized, phagocytes then break them down using enzymes and other tools within their cellular machinery, effectively neutralizing the threat.

This function is essential for the immediate immune response, as it helps to remove pathogens from the body before they can multiply and cause disease. Additionally, phagocytes also contribute to the activation of other immune cells and the shaping of the adaptive immune response, but their primary and most direct role is the direct destruction of pathogens through engulfment and digestion.