Lymphatic System

Lymphocytes

A type of white blood cell involved in immunity that develops from a hematopoietic stem cell.

Natural Killer Cells

Large lymphocytes that attack and destroy bacteria, transplanted tissues, and infected or cancerous host cells.

B Cells (B Lymphocytes)

Lymphocytes that differentiate into plasma cells and mature in bone marrow, producing memory B cells and plasma cells.

Memory B Cells

Activated B cells that do not immediately differentiate into plasma cells and can execute a quick secondary response upon reexposure to the antigen.

T Cells (T Lymphocytes)

Lymphocytes that mature in the thymus; includes helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells, and memory T cells.

Lymphatic Fluid

Colorless fluid that contains white blood cells and is formed by filtration out of the blood capillaries into the lymphatic system.

Lymphatic Vessels

Similar to blood vessels, these structures drain to vessels and transport lymph including excess interstitial fluid, proteins, and waste back to the bloodstream.

Lymph Nodes

Structure formed by lymph tissue that contains phagocytic cells, crucial for filtering lymph fluid and trapping pathogens.

Thymus Gland

An organ located under the sternum that trains and matures T cells to fight infections without attacking body tissues.

Mastication

The chewing of food.

Deglutition

The process of swallowing food.

Bolus

A soft mass of chewed food mixed with enzymes and mucus that is ready to be swallowed.

Chyme

An acidic, soupy mixture of semi-digested food.

Peristalsis

A wave of constriction traveling along a tubular organ to propel its contents.

Gastric Pits

Folds of the inner surface of the stomach that are the openings of the gastric glands.

Muscularis Mucosa

A layer of muscle in the stomach that aids in the movement of the gastric contents.

Goblet Cells

Cells in the villi of the small intestine that secrete mucus.

Ileocecal Valve

Controls movement between the small and large intestines, regulating the flow of digestive materials.

Gut Microbiome/Microbiota

A collection of over 1,000 species of microorganisms residing in the gut, influencing digestion, immunity, and health.

Greater Omentum

Part of the body’s defense against toxins and infections, helping to filter lymph fluid.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake into cells.

Trypsinogen

A precursor to trypsin that digests proteins.

Chymotrypsinogen

A precursor to chymotrypsin, which also digests proteins.