What type of cells perform the function of destroying disease-causing microorganisms?

Leukocytes, or white blood cells, are the primary cells responsible for defending the body against disease-causing microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. They play a crucial role in the immune response by identifying and combating infections and foreign substances that pose a threat to health.

There are different types of leukocytes, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils, each with specific functions related to the immune response. For instance, neutrophils are often the first responders to infections, aggressively attacking pathogens, while lymphocytes are crucial for adaptive immunity, recognizing specific pathogens and remembering them for faster attacks in future encounters.

In contrast, red blood cells are primarily involved in transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. Platelets play a role in clotting and preventing bleeding rather than directly combating infections. Skeletal cells are associated with the structure and function of the skeleton and do not have a role in immune responses. Therefore, leukocytes are the correct answer because their fundamental role is to protect the body by destroying harmful microorganisms.