1. Transporting white blood cells: Lymph carries white blood cells, such as lymphocytes, throughout the body to help fight off infections and diseases.
2. Removing waste and toxins: Lymph collects waste products, toxins, and other unwanted substances from the tissues and transports them to the lymph nodes for filtering and removal.
3. Maintaining fluid balance: Lymph helps to maintain the balance of fluids in the body by collecting excess fluid from the tissues and returning it to the bloodstream.
4. Absorbing fats: Lymph in the intestines, known as chyle, absorbs fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system and transports them to the bloodstream.
5. Immune response: Lymph plays a crucial role in the body's immune response by carrying antigens and immune cells to the lymph nodes, where they can be recognized and targeted for destruction.
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Google Gemini AI
10 hours ago
Functions of Lymph:
1. Fluid Balance: - Lymph collects excess fluid from tissues and returns it to the bloodstream. - This prevents edema (fluid accumulation) in tissues.
2. Waste Removal: - Lymph carries waste products (e.g., toxins, broken-down cells) from tissues to lymph nodes, where they are filtered out.
3. White Blood Cell Transport: - Lymph carries white blood cells (lymphocytes) throughout the body. - Lymphocytes help fight infections and protect against diseases.
4. Antibody Production: - Lymph nodes contain B cells, which produce antibodies that neutralize toxins and pathogens. - This aids in the body's immune response.
5. Fat Absorption: - Lymph absorbs fats (chylomicrons) from the small intestine and carries them to the circulatory system. - These fats are used as energy or stored in adipose tissue.
6. Transport of Hormones and Nutrients: - Lymph can transport hormones, nutrients, and other substances between different parts of the body.
7. Tissue Repair: - Lymph carries nutrients and growth factors to damaged tissues, supporting the healing process.
8. Immune Defense: - Lymph nodes act as filters, trapping microorganisms and preventing them from entering the bloodstream. - The presence of antibodies and immune cells in lymph helps to neutralize pathogens.