The human lymphatic system is a component of the cardiovascular system. It plays an important function in the purification of body tissues and in the metabolism. Unlike the bloodstream, this part is not closed and does not use a central pump for its movement. The liquid moves slowly under the influence of a small pressure.
Structure of the human lymphatic system
This part of the body consists of:
- corresponding vessels and capillaries through which the liquid moves;
- lymph nodes involved in filtration;
- two lymphatic ducts;
- the very liquid that circulates through the body.
In addition, the organs of the human lymphatic system include the thymus, tonsils and spleen.
Separately it is necessary to say about the structure of the lymph node. It performs important functions, which are mainly determined by the structure. So, this element of the system consists of lymphoid tissue. It in turn is represented in the form of plasma cells and reticulocytes. It is on this site of the system that the volume of B-lymphocytes increases, which improve immunity . During further conversion, they produce antibodies.
Within each such node there are T-lymphocytes, which, upon contact with the antigen, undergo a certain differentiation. Thus, these components of the body participate in the formation of cellular immunity.
In addition, it is necessary to mention the composition of the lymph. This fluid is part of the connective tissue. It contains salts and colloidal solutions of proteins that impart viscosity. The composition is also a lot of fat. The liquid strongly resembles a blood plasma.
In the body of each person is up to two liters of lymph. Its movement occurs through the vessels as a result of contraction of muscle cells in the walls. An important role in this matter is played by the work of the surrounding muscles, breathing and the position of the whole body.
Functions of the human lymphatic system
The lymphatic system, although it seems at first sight not as important as the nervous or circulatory system, nevertheless also plays a significant role in the proper functioning of each organism:
- The main thing that it does is ensure the outflow of excess liquid and substances from the intercellular space. All this further enters the blood vessels.
- Protection of the body against foreign microorganisms and unfamiliar substances. At the nodes of this system, some substances that can harm a person are delayed. These components act as natural filters.
- Maturation of immunity cells. Here, special leukocytes are formed, which then enter the bloodstream. If necessary, they produce antibodies that bind and neutralize foreign microorganisms.
- Another major part of the human lymphatic system is assistance in the matter of fat absorption. Proteins and carbohydrates enter the circulatory system from the intestine. And most of the fats are absorbed precisely into the lymphatic vessels. Further, with the corresponding liquid, they are already in the blood.
- Transportation of large proteins to red corpuscles. Large elements are not able to penetrate into the capillary from the intercellular space. And they must necessarily be in the circulatory system - this is important for proper functioning. Large proteins appear in the blood at the expense of lymph, since the corresponding capillaries of this system are able to skip the necessary elements.
It is important that the fluid is constantly moving, and in any case, do not allow stagnation. The whole point is that if the lymph moves slowly around the body, it can lead to a serious inflammation of the nodes , which will require their removal.