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Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the thymus gland?
What is the primary function of the thymus gland?
Which of the following is NOT a function of lymph nodes?
Which of the following is NOT a function of lymph nodes?
What type of immunity is characterized by the production of antibodies by B lymphocytes?
What type of immunity is characterized by the production of antibodies by B lymphocytes?
Which class of antibody is NOT listed in the immunoglobulin classes?
Which class of antibody is NOT listed in the immunoglobulin classes?
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Which of the following tissues is involved in protecting the upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract from foreign matter?
Which of the following tissues is involved in protecting the upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract from foreign matter?
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What is the primary function of neutralization in immunity?
What is the primary function of neutralization in immunity?
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Which type of lymphocyte is primarily involved in cellular immunity?
Which type of lymphocyte is primarily involved in cellular immunity?
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What process involves antibodies coating antigens to facilitate phagocytosis?
What process involves antibodies coating antigens to facilitate phagocytosis?
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Which of the following characteristics is NOT associated with humoral immunity?
Which of the following characteristics is NOT associated with humoral immunity?
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What type of immunity is effective against any harmful agent entering the body?
What type of immunity is effective against any harmful agent entering the body?
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Study Notes
Thymus
- A single, unpaired gland located in the mediastinum.
- Primary gland of the lymphatic system, producing thymosin hormone.
- Stimulates red bone marrow to generate T lymphocytes (T cells).
- Facilitates the development of T lymphocytes before they migrate to lymph nodes and spleen.
Lymph Nodes and Vessels
- Drain fluid from tissues and return it to blood supply.
- Transport lymph; filter and phagocytize antigens.
- Generate monocytes and lymphocytes; develop antibodies essential for immunity.
- Lymphocytes are key immune system defenders, monitoring for antigens.
Spleen
- Largest lymphatic organ; removes damaged erythrocytes through macrophages.
- Stores blood and platelets; filters and purifies blood.
Tonsils and Mucosal Tissues
- Defend against microorganisms and harmful substances entering through the mouth and nose.
Peyer’s Patches
- Located in the wall of the small intestine (ileum).
- Part of small lymphoid tissues collection.
Kupffer Cells
- Also called Browicz-Kupffer cells; fixed macrophages in the liver.
- Protect upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract from foreign invaders.
Specific Immunity
Humoral Immunity (Antibody-Mediated)
- Involves antibodies found in body fluids, produced by B lymphocytes.
- Characterized by antibody production in response to specific antigens.
- B cells transform into plasma cells, producing immunoglobulins (antibodies).
- Key antibody classes: IgG, IgA, IgM, IgE.
- Mechanisms of action include neutralization, lysis, and opsonization.
Cellular Immunity (Cell-Mediated)
- T lymphocytes defend the body directly.
- Helper T cells activate the immune response; stimulate proliferation of B and other T cells.
- Cytotoxic T cells directly attack antigens, lysing them.
- Memory T cells remember specific antigens for rapid response upon re-exposure.
- Suppressor T cells regulate and suppress immune responses to prevent overactivity.
Comparison of Immunity Types
- Humoral Immunity: Involves B lymphocytes, produces antibodies, effective against extracellular pathogens (e.g., bacteria).
- Cellular Immunity: Involves T lymphocytes, produces sensitized cells, effective against intracellular infections (e.g., viruses, fungi).
Non-Specific Immunity
- Provides general defense against harmful agents; discriminates self from non-self.
- Includes physical barriers (skin, mucous membranes), chemical barriers (acidic secretions), and biological response modifiers like interferons.
White Blood Cells in Non-Specific Immunity
- Neutrophils are first responders in inflammation.
- Eosinophils and basophils are activated during allergic reactions.
- Monocytes/macrophages engage in phagocytosis of foreign substances.
Inflammatory Response
- Initiated by tissue injury or pathogens; includes vasodilation and increased permeability.
- Cardinal signs: redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function.
- Involves the release of chemical mediators and recruitment of leukocytes.
Phagocytosis Steps
- Recognition: Phagocytic cells identify non-self or debris.
- Ingestion: Cell membrane engulfs target, forming a vacuole.
- Phagosome Formation: Granules release enzymes to destroy target.
- Degradation: Target is broken down into smaller debris particles.
Cardinal Signs of Inflammation
- Redness (rubor)
- Heat (calor)
- Swelling (tumor or turgor)
- Pain (dolor)
- Loss of function (functio laesa)
Stages of Inflammatory Response
- Vascular Phase: Initial vasoconstriction followed by increased blood flow and swelling.
- Cellular Exudate: Increase in circulating neutrophils and formation of pus; neutrophilia occurs.
In summary, the immune system comprises various specialized cells and organs working together to recognize and eliminate harmful agents, with both specific and non-specific mechanisms contributing to overall defense.
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Description
Explore the crucial components of the lymphatic system, including the thymus, lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, and Peyer's patches. This quiz will test your knowledge of their functions and roles in immunity. Ideal for students studying human biology or anatomy.
