Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system. They are found throughout the body and play a crucial role in the immune system.
The main functions of lymph nodes include: 1. Filtering lymph: Lymph nodes act as filters for lymph, which is a clear fluid that carries white blood cells, proteins, and other substances throughout the body. The nodes trap and remove bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances from the lymph before it is returned to the bloodstream.
2. Immune response: Lymph nodes contain immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages, that help to identify and destroy pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses. When a pathogen is detected, the immune cells in the lymph nodes produce antibodies and other immune responses to fight off the infection.
3. Production of lymphocytes: Lymph nodes are also sites where lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, are produced and stored. These cells play a key role in the body's immune response and help to defend against infections and diseases.
Overall, lymph nodes play a crucial role in the body's immune system by filtering lymph, initiating immune responses, and producing immune cells to help protect the body from infections and diseases.
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Google Gemini AI
Aug 23
Definition:
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system. They are distributed throughout the body, clustered in groups near blood vessels.
Role:
Lymph nodes play several important roles in the immune system:
- Filtration: Lymph flows through the lymph nodes, which contain specialized cells that filter out foreign substances, including bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. - Immune cell production: Lymph nodes produce lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that is responsible for fighting infections and diseases. - Antibody production: Some lymphocytes in lymph nodes develop into plasma cells, which produce antibodies that recognize and bind to specific pathogens. - Immune surveillance: Lymph nodes monitor the fluid that drains from tissues and organs, alerting the immune system to any potential threats. - Antigen presentation: Antigens, which are substances recognized as foreign by the immune system, are presented to immune cells in lymph nodes. This initiates an immune response. - Storage of immune cells: Lymph nodes store memory lymphocytes, which are long-lived cells that "remember" past infections and provide rapid protection against future exposure.
Location:
Lymph nodes are found in various locations throughout the body, including:
When lymph nodes are infected or fighting an infection, they can become swollen and tender. This is often a sign that the immune system is responding to a threat.