A Level Biology Practice Exam

What is a phagosome?

1. A type of blood cell

2. An enzyme involved in digestion

3. A vesicle containing engulfed material

4. A membrane structure

The correct answer is: A vesicle containing engulfed material

A phagosome is specifically defined as a vesicle that forms when a cell engulfs material, such as bacteria or cellular debris, through a process known as phagocytosis. This process involves the cell membrane extending around the material and enclosing it, thereby forming a phagosome. The primary function of the phagosome is to transport the engulfed material into the cell, where it can then be processed and digested by lysosomes. This makes the choice of a vesicle containing engulfed material not only accurate but essential for understanding how immune cells, such as macrophages, respond to pathogens. These cells utilize phagosomes to facilitate the destruction and recycling of foreign particles, playing a vital role in the immune response. Understanding the structure and function of phagosomes is crucial for comprehending how cellular processes contribute to overall health and disease.