What function are T lymphocytes incapable of performing?

T lymphocytes, or T cells, play a crucial role in the immune response, but they do not possess the ability to perform phagocytosis. Phagocytosis is the process by which certain immune cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, engulf and digest particulate matter, including pathogens. T cells are primarily responsible for recognizing antigen-presenting cells and orchestrating the adaptive immune response through various means such as cytotoxic activity, helper functions, and memory formation.

While T cells can recognize antigens and respond to them, they do not secrete immunoglobulins, as this function is carried out by B lymphocytes. T cells can also generate a memory response, allowing for a faster and more effective response upon re-exposure to the same antigen. Therefore, their inability to perform phagocytosis distinguishes T cells from other important immune cells involved in direct pathogen elimination.