Final answer:
Neutrophils combat infection and inflammation through acidification, producing toxic oxygen-derived and nitrogen products, creating antimicrobial peptides like defensins, and utilizing enzymes like lysozyme to break down Gram-positive bacterial cell walls.
Step-by-step explanation:
The antimicrobial capabilities of neutrophils are key components of the body's innate immune response. These cells employ several mechanisms to fight off infections, particularly bacterial. Neutrophils create an acidic environment (acidification) and produce toxic oxygen-derived products during the respiratory burst, including oxidants such as hydrogen peroxide. They also produce toxic nitrogen oxides and antimicrobial peptides, such as defensins, which puncture the plasma membranes of bacteria and fungi, causing the cell contents to leak out. Additionally, neutrophils contain enzymes like lysozyme, which digest the cell walls of Gram-positive bacteria. An elevated count of neutrophils often signifies infection or inflammation, while a low count can increase susceptibility to infection.