What type of cells are white blood cells primarily responsible for?

White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the body's immune system. Their primary responsibility is to fight infections and protect the body against pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These cells are essential for identifying and responding to foreign invaders, ensuring that the body can effectively maintain health and prevent disease.

Different types of white blood cells have specialized functions; for example, lymphocytes are involved in the adaptive immune response, while neutrophils are typically the first responders to infectious agents. Given their vital role in immune defense, the primary task of white blood cells is indeed to combat infections and help maintain the body’s overall health.

The other options relate to functions that are not associated with white blood cells. Transporting oxygen is primarily the role of red blood cells, storing fat is related to adipocytes, and hormone production is primarily carried out by various glands in the endocrine system.