Phagocytes move through capillary walls by squeezing between adjacent endothelial cells, a process known as
(a) Diapedesis
(b) Chemotaxis
(c) Adhesion
(d) Perforation

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key terms related to phagocyte movement: Diapedesis, Chemotaxis, Adhesion, and Perforation.
2. Recall that phagocytes need to exit the bloodstream to reach sites of infection or injury, which involves moving through the capillary walls.
3. Identify that the process of squeezing between adjacent endothelial cells to exit the capillaries is specifically called diapedesis.
4. Recognize that chemotaxis refers to the movement of cells toward chemical signals, adhesion refers to the attachment of cells to surfaces, and perforation is not a standard term for this process.
5. Conclude that the correct term for phagocytes moving through capillary walls by squeezing between endothelial cells is diapedesis.

Key Concepts

Diapedesis

Diapedesis is the process by which phagocytes and other white blood cells move through the walls of capillaries by squeezing between adjacent endothelial cells. This allows immune cells to exit the bloodstream and enter tissues to fight infection or respond to injury.

Chemotaxis

Chemotaxis refers to the directed movement of cells, such as phagocytes, toward chemical signals released at sites of infection or inflammation. It guides immune cells to the exact location where they are needed for defense.

Adhesion

Adhesion is the process by which phagocytes attach to the endothelial cells lining blood vessels. This step is crucial before diapedesis, as it allows immune cells to anchor themselves before migrating through the vessel wall.