What is chemotaxis?

Chemotaxis refers specifically to the movement of cells, particularly leukocytes (or white blood cells), in response to chemical signals in their environment. In the context of the immune response, leukocytes are drawn toward sites of injury or infection due to the presence of various signaling molecules. These signaling molecules can be produced by damaged tissues or by pathogens, and they serve to guide the white blood cells to the location where they are needed most, facilitating an effective immune response.

During chemotaxis, white blood cells detect these chemical gradients and move accordingly, allowing for a rapid response to potential threats, such as infections or inflammation. This biological process is crucial for the immune system's ability to function optimally, ensuring that immune cells can effectively reach and target areas where they are necessary to fight off pathogens and promote healing.

The other options provided relate to different aspects of immune function but do not define chemotaxis accurately. For instance, the production of white blood cells occurs in the bone marrow and involves hematopoiesis, while the activation of B cells involves a specific type of immune response and the interaction with T-helper cells. Differentiation of macrophages involves their development from monocytes, yet this too is unrelated to the movement aspect defined by chemot