Question

In neutrophils, ingested microbes are found in phagosomes and are killed by:

a) Reactive oxygen species
b) Nitric oxide
c) Hydrolytic enzymes
d) Complement proteins

Answer 1

Neutrophils kill ingested microbes in phagosomes using reactive oxygen species and hydrolytic enzymes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Neutrophils, which are a type of phagocyte, ingest microbes and kill them using various mechanisms. One of the primary ways neutrophils kill ingested microbes is through the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydrogen peroxide and superoxide radicals. These reactive oxygen species can damage the microbe's DNA, proteins, and other cellular components, leading to its death. In addition to reactive oxygen species, neutrophils also use hydrolytic enzymes to break down ingested microbes. These enzymes, such as proteases and nucleases, help degrade the microbe's cellular structures, leading to its destruction.