Which of the following is NOT a function of phagocytes?

Phagocytes are a type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in the immune system by identifying and eliminating pathogens and debris. Their primary functions include engulfing pathogens, digesting foreign particles, and absorbing cell debris.

Engulfing pathogens is one of the hallmark activities of phagocytes, where they surround and internalize harmful microorganisms, thereby initiating the immune response. After engulfing these pathogens, phagocytes digest them using enzymes contained within lysosomes, effectively neutralizing the threat they pose to the body. Additionally, phagocytes play a key role in clearing cellular debris, which involves absorbing dead cells and any fragments left from the immune response or tissue damage.

Producing antibodies, however, is a function associated with another class of immune cells known as B lymphocytes (B cells). B cells are specialized in recognizing specific antigens and are responsible for the production of antibodies, which are crucial for targeting foreign invaders in a more tailored immune response. Thus, the function of producing antibodies is not a role played by phagocytes, making it the correct choice as the one that does not belong to their set of functions.