Which type of blood cells are responsible for destroying disease-causing microorganisms?

White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the body's immune response by identifying and eliminating disease-causing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These cells can actively seek out pathogens and respond to infections by producing antibodies and signaling other immune cells to help in the defense process. There are various types of white blood cells, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, each with specialized functions in combating different kinds of infections.

Red blood cells are mainly involved in transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation. They do not have a role in directly fighting infections. Platelets are essential for blood clotting and wound healing, but they do not attack microorganisms. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can develop into various cell types, including red blood cells and white blood cells, but they do not actively engage in fighting disease until they differentiate into specific types of blood cells.