Which of the following is not phagocytic ?

Options

A. Neutrophils
B. Monocytes
C. Lymphocytes
D. Eosinophils .

Answer

To determine which of the following cells is not phagocytic, we need to analyze each of the given options: neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, and eosinophils.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Phagocytosis**: Phagocytosis is the process by which certain cells, known as phagocytes, engulf and digest foreign particles, such as bacteria and dead or dying cells. This is a crucial part of the immune response.

2. **Evaluate Neutrophils**: Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell (WBC) and are classified as granulocytes. They are one of the primary phagocytic cells in the immune system. Neutrophils actively engulf pathogens and are essential for the body's defense against infections. Therefore, neutrophils are phagocytic.

3. **Evaluate Monocytes**: Monocytes are another type of WBC but are classified as agranulocytes (they lack granules). When monocytes migrate into tissues, they differentiate into macrophages, which are also phagocytic. Monocytes play a significant role in engulfing and digesting foreign particles. Hence, monocytes are also phagocytic.

4. **Evaluate Lymphocytes**: Lymphocytes are agranulocytes and consist of T cells and B cells. T cells are involved in cell-mediated immunity, while B cells are responsible for antibody production (humoral immunity). Lymphocytes do not engage in phagocytosis; they primarily function in the adaptive immune response. Therefore, lymphocytes are **not phagocytic**.

5. **Evaluate Eosinophils**: Eosinophils are also a type of granulocyte and are involved in combating parasitic infections and allergic reactions. They can exhibit phagocytic activity, particularly against larger parasites. Thus, eosinophils are phagocytic.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the only cell type listed that is not phagocytic is **lymphocytes**. Therefore, the correct answer is **C. Lymphocytes**.