Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Study of Phagolysosome Biogenesis in Live Macrophages
Published on: March 10, 2014
The effect of antibiotics on the function of the phagocytic system
Abstract:
The present paper reviews the effect of various antibiotics (ATB) on the cells of the phagocytic system. The first part deals with an indirect mechanism of action of ATB, i.e. with changes induced in the bacterial cell which in turn renders these bacteria susceptible to phagocytosis. In the second part, the direct effect of ATB on phagocytic cells is discussed: binding of ATB to phagocytes, penetration into the cell, change in chemotactic (migratory) activity, effects on ingestion of particles, intracellular killing of bacteria and on phagocytosis-associated metabolic changes (e.g. chemiluminescence).
Related Concept Videos
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells
Normal cells contain receptors that prevent them from being recognized by phagocytes.
Antimicrobial Proteins
Interferons
Interferons (IFNs) are proteins produced by lymphocytes, macrophages, and fibroblasts infected with viruses. While IFNs cannot prevent viruses from entering and...
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota
Microbiota Modulation by Antibiotics
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance

