In endocytic pathways, the process commonly described as "cell eating" (uptake of large particles by engulfment) is called what?

• A. Phagocytosis
• B. Receptor-mediated endocytosis
• C. Exocytosis
• D. Pinocytosis

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the terminology related to endocytic pathways: endocytosis is the process by which cells internalize substances from their external environment.
2. Recognize that 'cell eating' refers to the uptake of large particles, such as bacteria or cell debris, by engulfing them into the cell.
3. Recall that phagocytosis is the specific type of endocytosis where large particles are engulfed by the cell membrane to form a phagosome.
4. Differentiate phagocytosis from other processes: receptor-mediated endocytosis involves selective uptake of molecules via receptors, pinocytosis is 'cell drinking' involving fluid uptake, and exocytosis is the process of expelling materials from the cell.
5. Conclude that the process described as 'cell eating' (uptake of large particles by engulfment) is called phagocytosis.