What is the role of the spleen in the lymphatic system? It aids in digestion and nutrient absorption. It stores excess lymph fluid and releases it during physical activity. It helps in recycling red blood cells and plays a role in immunity. It produces T-cells (T-lymphocytes) and helps with immunity.
Added by Christopher B.
Close
Step 1
Step 1: The spleen is a part of the lymphatic system, which is responsible for filtering waste and fighting infections. Show more…
Show all steps
Your feedback will help us improve your experience
Jennifer Stoner and 64 other Biology educators are ready to help you.
Ask a new question
Labs
Want to see this concept in action?
Explore this concept interactively to see how it behaves as you change inputs.
Key Concepts
Recommended Videos
Jennifer S.
Shaiju T.
The lymphatic system is an essential part of the circulation of blood and, thereby, an important component of the immune system. As the blood circulates, some blood plasma filters out of the blood capillaries into spaces between tissue cells called interstitial spaces. As interstitial fluid (the circulating fluid in interstitial spaces) moves around the tissue cells, it's picked up by microscopic vessels called lymph capillaries; this fluid is called lymph. Eventually, all the lymph is returned to the blood just before it enters the heart. Because lymphatic capillaries are very permeable, they readily pick up microorganisms or their products. At various points in the lymphatic system are oval structures called lymph nodes through which lymph flows. Within the lymph nodes are fixed macrophages, large white blood cells, that help clear the lymph of infectious microorganisms through phagocytosis. The immune response to antigens takes place primarily in the secondary lymphoid organs, such as the lymph nodes and spleen. The spleen is located in the upper left region of your abdomen – just behind your stomach and under your diaphragm. During the primary immune response, pathogens and their associated constituents are transported to these tissues, where microbial antigens are presented to B cells that constantly enter and leave the secondary lymphoid organs. Here the microbes are tagged with antibodies. A review of Mrs. Vasquez's history reveals that she ruptured her spleen in an automobile accident a few years ago, resulting in the removal of the organ in a procedure known as a splenectomy. Question 9: Why is the fact that the patient has no spleen important? A. The spleen is the site of B cell production. B. The spleen recognizes foreign antigens. C. The spleen regulates blood pressure. D. The spleen contains cells of the immune system like B and T cells
Md.Daniyal A.
Recommended Textbooks
Biology for AP Courses
Objective Biology for NEET
Introduction to General, Organic and Biochemistry
18,000,000+
Students on Numerade
Trusted by students at 8,000+ universities
Watch the video solution with this free unlock.
EMAIL
PASSWORD