BIO 3347 Lecture 1: LymphocytesImmune System
Document Summary
Lymphoid tissues and organs scattered throughout the body. Function: returns interstitial uid and leaked plasma proteins back into the blood. The interstitial uid once it has entered lymphatic vessels: lymph. A one-way system in which lymph ows toward the heart. Lymphatic trunks are formed by the union of the largest collecting ducts. Lymph is delivered into one of two large trunks: Right lymphatic duct - drains the right upper arms and the right side of the head and thorax. Thoracic duct - drains the rest of the body. The lymphatic system lacks an organ that acts as a pump. Uses the same methods as veins to propel lymph. Contractions of smooth muscle in the walls of the lymphatics. Lymphocytes are the main cells involved in the immune response. The two main types are t cells and b cells. T cells and b cells protect the body against antigens. Antigen - anything the body perceives as foreign.
