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The Immune System - Lymphoid Organs

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Estimated time: 8 minutes
CISCE: Class 12

Introduction

Lymphoid organs are specialised organs of the body where lymphocytes (the immune system's key cells) are produced, mature, and proliferate in response to antigens.

Lymphoid organs and tissues

CISCE: Class 12

Classification of Lymphoid Organs

Lymphoid organs are broadly classified into two types based on their function in lymphocyte development.

1. Primary Lymphoid Organs

Organs where lymphocytes are produced and mature into antigen-sensitive cells.

  • Bone Marrow: site of origin for all blood cells (including lymphocytes); B-cells mature here
  • Thymus: site of maturation for T-cells; large in children and shrinks with age

2. Secondary Lymphoid Organs

Organs where mature lymphocytes interact with antigens and proliferate to generate an active immune response.

  • Lymph Nodes: filter lymph and trap antigens; sites of immune activation
  • Spleen: filters blood, stores lymphocytes, destroys aged blood cells
  • Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT): found in mucosal linings (gut and respiratory tract), protecting entry points into the body
CISCE: Class 12

Key Points: Lymphoid Organs

Lymphoid Organ Type Location Main Function
Bone marrow Primary Bones Formation of all blood cells and maturation of B-lymphocytes
Thymus Primary Upper chest (thoracic cavity) Maturation and differentiation of T-lymphocytes
Lymph nodes Secondary Along lymph vessels (neck, armpit, groin) Filtration of lymph, activation and proliferation of B- and T-cells
Spleen Secondary Left upper abdomen Filtration of blood, immune response, removal of old RBCs
MALT (GALT, BALT, NALT) Secondary Mucosal linings of gut, lungs, nose, throat Defence against pathogens entering through mucosal surfaces
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