Chapter 16 Lecture Notes – Lymphatic System and Immunity

Vocabulary flashcards based on Lecture Notes about the Lymphatic System and Immunity.

Lymphatic System

A collection of cells and biochemicals that travel in lymphatic vessels, aiding fluid circulation, disease defense, and lipid absorption. maintain homeostasis

Lymph

Tissue fluid that has entered a lymphatic capillary.

Lymphatic capillaries

Small vessels that collect interstitial fluid and transport it as lymph.

Lymphadenopathy

Swollen and tender lymph nodes usually indicating an infection.

Thymus

A gland where immature T cells mature, located in the mediastinum.

Spleen

An organ that filters blood, removes foreign particles and worn-out blood cells, and contains white and red pulp.

Innate Immunity

Nonspecific immunity present at birth that acts against all microbes and does not involve memory.

Adaptive Immunity

Specific immunity developed in response to exposure to antigens, involving memory and a targeted response.

Antigen

A marker on cells or biological molecules that identifies them as belonging to a specific group.

Hypersensitivity Reaction

An exaggerated immune response to a non-harmful antigen.

Macrophages

Immune cells that engulf and digest cellular debris and pathogens.

B cells

Lymphocytes that produce antibodies as part of the humoral immune response.

T cells

Lymphocytes that play a critical role in cellular immunity, directly attacking infected or cancerous cells.

Complement

A group of proteins that enhance the immune response, can cause lysis of pathogens.

Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels to increase blood flow, often seen during inflammation.

Memory T cells

Cells produced upon initial exposure to an antigen that allow for rapid response to subsequent exposures.

Cytokines

Chemicals released by cells that affect the behavior of other cells, particularly in immune responses.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by plasma cells that specifically bind to antigens to neutralize or mark them for destruction.

Interleukin-2

A cytokine that promotes the proliferation of T cells in the immune response.

What is precipitation?

Precipitation is any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from clouds and reaches the ground.

What is condensation?

Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air is changed into liquid water, forming clouds.

What is collection in the water cycle?

Collection is when precipitation gathers in bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and oceans.

What role do plants play in the water cycle?

Plants contribute to the water cycle through transpiration, where water is released from leaves into the atmosphere.

What is evaporation?

Evaporation is the process where liquid water is converted into water vapor due to heat from the sun.