Macrophages are large white blood cells. When the blood monocyte cells increase in size by 5 times, they are called macrophages or large eaters. Transformed macrophages are active phagocytic cells. Macrophages accumulate at infected sites of cells. Its opsonin substances identify microbes. Macrophages then release hydrolytic enzymes and cytokines. These chemicals destroy germs. A macrophage can ingest 100 bacteria. Macrophages remain active for several months after ingestion.
Macrophages can also consume larger organisms such as fungi and malaria. Cytokines released from it recruit the necessary cells to heal the wound. The chemical increases the rate of the phagocytosis process.