What role do white blood cells play during inflammation?

White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role during the inflammatory response in the body, primarily by attacking harmful pathogens and contributing to the cleanup of damaged tissues. During inflammation, these cells are attracted to the site of injury or infection and are key players in the immune response.

When tissues are injured or infected, a variety of signaling molecules, such as cytokines, are released, which attract white blood cells to the affected area. Different types of white blood cells, including neutrophils and macrophages, engage in phagocytosis—the process of engulfing and digesting pathogens such as bacteria and debris. This action helps to eliminate the source of infection and facilitates healing.

Moreover, white blood cells also release additional signaling substances that promote inflammation and further recruit more immune cells to the area, amplifying the protective response. In this context, their role is integral to protecting the body from pathogens and helping to restore normal function to the tissues involved in inflammation.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately represent the primary function of white blood cells in inflammation. While structural support to tissues is important for overall tissue integrity, it is not the role of white blood cells. Likewise, diluting toxins is more of a function of fluids in