What is the main function of neutrophils in the immune system?

Neutrophils play a crucial role in the innate immune system, primarily functioning as phagocytes. Their main responsibility is to identify, engulf, and destroy pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi, through a process known as phagocytosis. This involves the neutrophil recognizing foreign invaders, surrounding them, and internalizing them into vesicles where they are exposed to enzymes and reactive oxygen species that eliminate the threat.

Neutrophils are typically the first responders to sites of infection or injury, rapidly moving from the bloodstream to tissues in response to signals from the immune system. Their ability to ingest and digest pathogens is essential for controlling infections and initiating the inflammatory response, making phagocytosis their most important function.

While neutrophils are involved in various immune responses, including the release of signaling molecules that can enhance inflammation and recruit other immune cells, their defining characteristic and primary function remains the act of phagocytosis.