Which type of cell is described as 'eating' germs?

Phagocytes are a critical component of the immune system, functioning primarily to engulf and digest pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. This process, known as phagocytosis, is vital for defending the body against infections and is part of the innate immune response. Phagocytes recognize foreign particles, attach to them, and then internalize them, breaking them down with enzymes. This ability to "eat" germs allows the body to clear infections and helps to trigger further immune responses if necessary.

In contrast, other cell types listed have different functions within the immune system. For example, basophils are involved in inflammatory reactions and the release of histamine, while eosinophils primarily combat multicellular parasites and play a role in allergic reactions. Lyophiocytes are not a recognized type of immune cell and may be a misspelling or misinterpretation of lymphocytes, which are mainly involved in the adaptive immune response. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in comprehending how different cells contribute to overall immune function.