Final answer:
Yes, neutrophils are phagocytic cells, meaning they can engulf and digest pathogens as part of the body's innate immune response.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neutrophils are indeed phagocytic cells, which means they are capable of engulfing and destroying pathogens like bacteria and fungi. These cells are rapid responders to the site of infection, playing a crucial role in the body's first line of defense, the innate immune response. Neutrophils contain granules with enzymes like lysozyme, and proteins such as defensins that help break down the cell walls of bacteria and disrupt their membranes, leading to the death of the pathogen. Furthermore, neutrophils can produce a myriad of substances including cytokines that help orchestrate the immune response. They are distinguished from other phagocytes like macrophages, which are agranulocytes and have different roles in the immune system. Neutrophil counts in blood can be an indicator of the presence of infection or inflammation.