Final answer:
True, during phagocytosis, immune cells may release chemicals to destroy pathogens that can accidentally damage nearby healthy tissue, resulting in collateral damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, phagocytosis can potentially damage surrounding normal tissues. This process is carried out by special immune cells known as phagocytes (e.g., macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, and eosinophils), which engulf and digest pathogens and debris. The primary function of phagocytosis is part of the innate immune system, aiming to protect the body by clearing out harmful entities.
Phagocytes are like sentinels patrolling the body and are often found residing in tissues where they can quickly respond to infections. Phagocytosis involves the engulfing and digesting of pathogens within a phagolysosome, following by the excretion of undigested remains. However, during this process, the release of chemicals to destroy pathogens can sometimes harm nearby healthy cells, causing collateral damage in the tissues.
There are also several types of white blood cells capable of performing phagocytosis, not just macrophages; neutrophils and eosinophils can also phagocytize pathogens. Yet, the involvement of these cells in an immune response can lead to inflammation and tissue damage if the response is too aggressive or prolonged.