Describe the structure and function of lymph nodes.
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ChatGPT
11 hours ago
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system, which is a network of vessels and organs that help the body fight infection and disease. Lymph nodes are found throughout the body, with clusters located in the neck, armpits, groin, and abdomen.
The main function of lymph nodes is to filter and trap foreign particles, such as bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells, that are carried in the lymph fluid. Lymph fluid is a clear, watery fluid that circulates through the lymphatic system, carrying white blood cells and other immune cells that help fight infection.
When foreign particles enter the lymph nodes, they are engulfed by specialized immune cells called lymphocytes, which work to destroy them. The lymphocytes also produce antibodies that help to neutralize and eliminate the foreign particles.
In addition to filtering and trapping foreign particles, lymph nodes also help to regulate the fluid balance in the body by draining excess fluid from tissues and returning it to the bloodstream.
Overall, lymph nodes play a crucial role in the body's immune response, helping to protect against infection and disease.
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Google Gemini AI
11 hours ago
Structure of Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures located throughout the lymphatic system. They are composed of a capsule, cortex, paracortex, and medulla.
- Capsule: A fibrous outer layer that encloses the node. - Cortex: The outer layer containing follicles (primary and secondary follicles) where B lymphocytes undergo maturation and differentiation. - Paracortex: A region between the cortex and medulla containing T lymphocytes. - Medulla: The inner layer containing cords of lymphocytes and macrophages.
Function of Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are essential components of the immune system, performing the following functions:
- Filtration: Lymph nodes trap pathogens, antigens, and debris from the interstitial fluid through their afferent lymphatic vessels. - Immunity: They contain various types of immune cells, including B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, and macrophages, which interact to mount immune responses against pathogens. - Lymphocyte maturation: Lymph nodes provide an environment for the maturation and differentiation of B and T lymphocytes. - Antigen presentation: Specialized antigen-presenting cells (APCs) within lymph nodes capture and present antigens to lymphocytes, triggering an immune response. - Antibody production: B lymphocytes within lymph nodes differentiate into antibody-producing plasma cells, releasing antibodies into the bloodstream. - Cell destruction: Macrophages within lymph nodes engulf and destroy pathogens and damaged cells. - Immune surveillance: Lymph nodes continuously monitor the lymphatic fluid for the presence of pathogens and other antigens.
Lymphatic Drainage
Lymph nodes are connected to the lymphatic system by afferent lymphatic vessels, which bring in fluid and debris from surrounding tissues. After filtration and processing, lymph nodes drain the filtered fluid through efferent lymphatic vessels into the bloodstream or into larger lymph nodes for further processing.
Role in Disease
Lymph nodes play a critical role in the body's defense against infection and disease. Enlarged or swollen lymph nodes often indicate an infection or other health condition that requires medical attention.