Which white cell controls microbial and fungal infections and removes damaged cells from the body?

Monocytes are a key type of white blood cell involved in the immune response. They have a vital role in controlling microbial and fungal infections. Monocytes circulate in the bloodstream and can migrate into tissues where they differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells. Once activated, they excel at phagocytosing pathogens, including bacteria and fungi, and removing dead or damaged cells.

Their ability to ingest and digest these foreign substances makes them critical in maintaining the health of bodily tissues by clearing infections and debris. Furthermore, macrophages derived from monocytes are also important for alerting the other parts of the immune system by presenting antigens to lymphocytes, which helps coordinate a more comprehensive immune response.

Understanding the role of monocytes is crucial for recognizing how the body responds to infections and maintains homeostasis.