Adaptive Immune System

25 vocabulary flashcards based on the adaptive immune system lecture.

Adaptive Immune System

A specialized arm of the immune system that develops a targeted response against specific pathogens.

Lymphatic System

A network of vessels that collect and return tissue fluid, known as lymph, to the blood circulation.

T lymphocytes

A type of white blood cell matured in the thymus, crucial for the adaptive immune response.

B lymphocytes

A type of white blood cell produced in bone marrow, responsible for producing antibodies.

Lymph

The fluid containing white blood cells that circulates in the lymphatic system.

Lymph Capillaries

Small vessels that collect excess tissue fluid from the extracellular spaces.

Plasma

The liquid component of blood that eventually flows back into circulation.

Thymus

An organ in the lymphatic system where T lymphocytes mature.

Spleen

An organ that filters blood and is involved in the detection of blood-borne pathogens.

Lymph Nodes

Small structures that filter lymph and store lymphocytes and macrophages.

Macrophages

Immune cells that engulf and digest pathogens and debris.

Tonsils

Lymphoid tissues that help fight infections entering through the mouth and nose.

Immune System Filters

Organs like lymph nodes and the spleen that trap pathogens in lymph fluid.

Excess Tissue Fluid

Fluid that leaks from capillaries into surrounding tissues, which must be collected and returned to circulation.

Pathogens

Microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses that can cause disease.

Extracellular Spaces

The areas surrounding cells where tissue fluid accumulates.

Capillaries

Small blood vessels where the exchange of fluids and nutrients occurs.

Fluid Loss

The process where plasma leaks from blood vessels, potentially leading to swelling.

Immunological Response

The reaction of the immune system to pathogens or foreign substances.

Fatty Acids Absorption

One of the functions of the lymphatic system that occurs in the small intestine.

Organized Clusters

The structured arrangement of immune cells in the spleen, lymph nodes, and tonsils.

Blood Flow

The movement of blood through the circulatory system, which is distinct from lymph flow.

Red Blood Cells Removal

The spleen's role in filtering out old red blood cells from circulation.

Whole Body Immune System Function

The collective function of various organs in supporting the body’s immune response.

Immune Cells

Cells involved in the immune response, including lymphocytes and macrophages.

Lymph Flow

The flow of lymphatic fluid through vessels and nodes, filtering pathogens along the way.

Circulatory System

The system comprising the heart, blood vessels, and lymphatic system that transports blood and lymph.