Phagosomes

Phagosomes are membranous vesicles formed when a phagocyte such as a macrophage ingests foreign materials, including antigens and microorganisms. They play an important role in the body’s immune defense by targeting and destroying these foreign invaders. Within the phagosome, these materials are degraded and then recycled into molecules that are used for energy or as building blocks for new substances. Phagosomes are also used in research studies to study the effects of antigens and microorganisms on cells.