Sign In

25.1 : Introduction to Lymphatic and Immune System

Immunity is a crucial biological concept about our body's inherent capacity to prevent infections and diseases. A complex network of cells and tissues collectively known as the immune system facilitates this natural defense mechanism. The immune system plays an integral role in maintaining our health and well-being, shielding us from potential health threats.

The immune responses can be categorized into two types: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity comprises nonspecific defenses we are born with, providing immediate but temporary protection against infections. On the other hand, adaptive immunity involves specific responses that our body learns and adapts over time, offering long-term and highly specialized defense against particular pathogens.

The lymphatic system is a pivotal component of the immune system. It facilitates the adaptive immune response and contributes to elements of innate immunity. This system encompasses four main components: lymph, lymphoid cells, lymphatic vessels, and lymphatic tissues and organs.

The lymph is a clear fluid acting as a transportation medium for lymphoid cells and proteins. Lymphoid cells are immune cells comprising lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Lymphocytes are white blood cells crucial for an adaptive immune response, while dendritic cells present antigens to activate these lymphocytes. Macrophages are primarily involved in the innate immune response, acting as phagocytes.

Lymphatic vessels form a comprehensive network for transporting lymph throughout the body. The lymphoid tissues and organs, including the spleen and thymus, offer lymphocyte maturation and activation sites.

Tags
ImmunityImmune SystemInnate ImmunityAdaptive ImmunityLymphatic SystemLymphLymphoid CellsLymphatic VesselsLymphatic TissuesLymphocytesMacrophagesDendritic CellsPhagocytesHealth Defense Mechanism

From Chapter 25:

article

Now Playing

25.1 : Introduction to Lymphatic and Immune System

The Lymphatic and Immune System

833 Views

article

25.2 : Functions of the Lymphatic and Immune System

The Lymphatic and Immune System

422 Views

article

25.3 : Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport

The Lymphatic and Immune System

409 Views

article

25.4 : Lymphoid Cells and Tissues

The Lymphatic and Immune System

316 Views

article

25.5 : Primary Lymphoid Organs

The Lymphatic and Immune System

434 Views

article

25.6 : Secondary Lymphoid Organs

The Lymphatic and Immune System

359 Views

article

25.7 : Detailed Structure and Function of Lymph Nodes

The Lymphatic and Immune System

325 Views

article

25.8 : Development of the Lymphatic System

The Lymphatic and Immune System

135 Views

article

25.9 : Introduction to Innate and Adaptive Immunity

The Lymphatic and Immune System

1.4K Views

article

25.10 : Surface Membrane Barriers

The Lymphatic and Immune System

226 Views

article

25.11 : Cells of the Innate Immune Response

The Lymphatic and Immune System

392 Views

article

25.12 : Antimicrobial Proteins

The Lymphatic and Immune System

212 Views

article

25.13 : Complement System

The Lymphatic and Immune System

532 Views

article

25.14 : Immune Surveillance by NK Cells and Phagocytes

The Lymphatic and Immune System

325 Views

article

25.15 : Inflammatory Response

The Lymphatic and Immune System

524 Views

See More

JoVE Logo

Privacy

Terms of Use

Policies

Research

Education

ABOUT JoVE

Copyright © 2025 MyJoVE Corporation. All rights reserved