title: The cell biology of phagocytosis.
abstract: Engulfment and destruction of invading microorganisms by phagocytosis are critical components of the innate immune response. In addition, phagocytosis is also required for the clearance of apoptotic bodies, an essential aspect of tissue homeostasis and remodeling. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of the cellular and molecular basis of phagosome formation and maturation. We discuss the manner in which phagocytosis is subverted by certain pathogens and consider congenital disorders that affect phagocyte function.
authors.affiliation: Program in Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada.
authors.forename: Ronald S
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Flannagan
authors.forename: Valentin
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Jaumouillé
authors.forename: Sergio
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Grinstein
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D030342:Genetic Diseases, Inborn / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology; D054884:Host-Pathogen Interactions / Q000276:immunology / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D057131:Immune Evasion; D007239:Infections / Q000276:immunology; D010586:Phagocytes / Q000276:immunology / Q000502:physiology; D010587:Phagocytosis / Q000276:immunology / Q000502:physiology*; D010588:Phagosomes / Q000276:immunology / Q000502:physiology*; D015398:Signal Transduction