BIOL 2402 Exam 2 Review: Lymphatic & Immune Systems

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and details from Chapter 21 on the Lymphatic and Immune Systems to assist with exam preparation.

What are the main components of the lymphatic system and their functions?

Lymphatic vessels carry lymph, remove excess interstitial fluid, transport fats, and provide immune defense. Lymph contains white blood cells. Lymph nodes filter lymph and remove pathogens. Primary lymphoid organs are bone marrow and thymus; secondary lymphoid organs include lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, and MALT.

What is the function of the lymphatic system?

The lymphatic system returns excess fluid to the bloodstream, transports dietary fats, and provides sites for immune cell production and response.

What condition arises if the lymphatic system fails?

Lymphedema, which is swelling due to fluid buildup in tissues.

What is MALT and where is it found?

MALT is Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue found in mucous membranes (such as tonsils and Peyer's patches) where it traps and destroys pathogens.

Why is lymph filtering important and how is it done?

Filtering removes bacteria and debris; it is done by lymph nodes containing macrophages and lymphocytes.

How do the lymphatic and immune systems work together?

The lymphatic system transports immune cells and traps pathogens in lymph nodes, while the immune system uses these cells to identify and destroy infections.

What are the components of the immune system?

Key cells include lymphocytes (B and T cells), macrophages, and natural killer cells. Key tissues/organs are bone marrow, thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, and MALT.

What are the first, second, and third lines of defense in the immune system?

First line: Skin and mucous membranes. Second line: Phagocytes and inflammation. Third line: Specific immune response by B cells and T cells.

What is the difference between innate and adaptive immunity?

Innate immunity is present at birth and responds quickly, while adaptive immunity is slower, responds specifically to pathogens, and has memory.

What is the function of B cells in the immune system?

B cells produce antibodies that target specific pathogens in body fluids.

Describe the role of natural killer (NK) cells.

NK cells destroy virus-infected or cancer cells using perforins and granzymes.

What are interferons and their function?

Interferons are released by virus-infected cells; they warn neighboring cells and block viral replication.

What are antigen-presenting cells (APCs)?

APCs include dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells, and their function is to present antigen fragments to T cells.

What causes fever in the body?

Fever is caused by pyrogens released by white blood cells, raising body temperature to combat pathogens.

What is the function of inflammation?

Inflammation isolates injury, destroys pathogens, and initiates tissue repair.

How do B and T cells become immunocompetent?

B cells mature in bone marrow and produce plasma and memory B cells; T cells mature in thymus and differentiate into various T cell types.

What is the difference between active and passive immunity?

Active immunity is when the body produces its own antibodies; passive immunity is when antibodies are received from another source.

What is the relationship between T cells and APCs regarding MHCs?

APCs present antigen fragments with MHC molecules (MHC I on body cells recognized by cytotoxic T cells, and MHC II on APCs recognized by helper T cells).