Uptake of Particles and Large Molecules by the Cell

Uptake of Particles and Large Molecules by the Cell 

Phagocytosis of large external particles, such as bacteria, occurs by engulfment or surrounding of the particle by the membrane. 

This mechanism is used mainly by specialized cells such as macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. 

The process starts by binding of the cell to the target particle. 

Binding is followed by invagination of the membrane to surround the entire particle and the membrane-encapsulated particle pinches off from the plasma membrane to form a phagosome. 

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