Which cell type is a resident phagocytic cell in connective tissue?

Which cell type is a resident phagocytic cell in connective tissue?

• A. Mast cells
• B. Inactive fibroblast
• C. Active fibroblast
• D. Macrophages

Answer: (D)

Macrophages act as resident phagocytes in connective tissue. They originate from monocytes and settle in tissues to patrol for pathogens, clear dead cells and debris, and present antigens to help activate the immune response. Among the options, this is the cell type specialized for phagocytosis in the connective tissue environment. Mast cells focus on releasing mediators during inflammation, not engulfing particles. Fibroblasts, whether in their inactive or active form, make and remodel the extracellular matrix rather than perform phagocytosis. So the macrophage is the best answer.

Macrophages act as resident phagocytes in connective tissue. They originate from monocytes and settle in tissues to patrol for pathogens, clear dead cells and debris, and present antigens to help activate the immune response. Among the options, this is the cell type specialized for phagocytosis in the connective tissue environment. Mast cells focus on releasing mediators during inflammation, not engulfing particles. Fibroblasts, whether in their inactive or active form, make and remodel the extracellular matrix rather than perform phagocytosis. So the macrophage is the best answer.