Define chemotaxis in the context of inflammation.

• A. The movement of blood cells away from inflammation
• B. The movement of immune cells towards inflammation
• C. The process of cell differentiation
• D. The activation of immune cells in circulation

Answer: (B)

Chemotaxis refers to the directed movement of immune cells towards the site of inflammation in response to chemical signals. When tissue injury or infection occurs, inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, chemokines, and other signaling molecules are released. These substances create a gradient that immune cells, particularly leukocytes, can detect. As a result, immune cells migrate toward the higher concentration of these chemicals, effectively moving towards the site of injury or infection to facilitate tissue healing and combat pathogens.

This process is crucial for mounting an effective immune response and is central to the body's ability to manage inflammation and initiate repair mechanisms. Understanding chemotaxis is essential for comprehending the broader context of inflammatory responses, how immune cells interact with damaged tissue, and the overall resolution of inflammation.