*2.1.1.1 Neutrophils*

Neutrophils or Polymorphonuclear leukocytes are the predominant phagocytic immune cells that play a major role against *C. albicans* infection. These cells activate various antimicrobial mechanisms in addition to phagocytosis, such as producing reactive oxygen species, the release of granular enzymes and antimicrobial proteins [13]. In addition, a neutrophil extracellular trap composed of a neutrophil chromatin is another significant protective strategy deployed by the host against fungal infections [14]. Neutrophils and monocytes damage and kill yeast cells of *C. albicans*, hyphae and pseudohyphae [11] by recognizing and engulfing opsonized and non-opsonized yeast cells via cell-surface pattern recognition receptors. However, the large size of Candida hyphae and pseudohyphae may preclude phagocytosis and thus the need for several phagocytes to collaborate and affect extracellular killing [15].

### *2.1.1.2 Monocytes*

Neither dead cell debris nor attacking microorganisms can be dealt with effectively by the neutrophils [16]. Monocytes and their derivatives, including macrophages and dendritic cells, play diverse roles in the response to fungal pathogens

by sensing fungi and triggering signaling pathways that mediate direct effects like phagocytosis, cytokine production and presentation of fungal antigens to elicit adaptive immune response [17].
