Which host cell type is primarily responsible for phagocytosis during the innate immune response?

• A. Basophil
• B. B lymphocyte
• C. Neutrophil
• D. Eosinophil

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of phagocytosis in the innate immune response: Phagocytosis is the process by which certain immune cells engulf and digest pathogens or debris to protect the body from infection.
2. Identify the main types of white blood cells involved in the innate immune response: These include neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, and monocytes/macrophages.
3. Recall the primary function of each cell type: Neutrophils are known as the first responders and are highly efficient at phagocytosis; eosinophils mainly combat parasitic infections; basophils are involved in allergic responses; B lymphocytes are part of the adaptive immune system and do not perform phagocytosis.
4. Focus on neutrophils: They are the most abundant phagocytic cells in the bloodstream and are specialized in engulfing and destroying bacteria and fungi during the innate immune response.
5. Conclude that neutrophils are the host cell type primarily responsible for phagocytosis during the innate immune response based on their abundance and function.