What leukocyte kills by the respiratory burst?

The respiratory burst is a process by which certain white blood cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other antimicrobial substances to kill pathogens. The respiratory burst is initiated by the activation of NADPH oxidase, an enzyme complex located in the plasma membrane of these cells. NADPH oxidase transfers electrons from NADPH to oxygen, generating superoxide anion (O2-), which is then converted into other ROS such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hydroxyl radical (OH-), and hypochlorous acid (HOCl). These ROS are highly reactive and can cause oxidative damage to the lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids of pathogens, leading to their death.