MM

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY LYMPHOID ORGANS .

INTRODUCTION

1
 PRIMARY AND SECONDARY LYMPHOID ORGANS .

PRIMARY LYMPHOID ORGANS

Primary lymphoid organs, also known as central lymphoid organs, are essential
components of the immune system where immune cells, particularly
lymphocytes, develop and mature. These organs play a critical role in generating
and educating immune cells to recognize and respond to antigens (foreign
substances that can trigger an immune response). The primary lymphoid organs
include:

• Bone Marrow: The bone marrow is a primary site for the development
and maturation of B lymphocytes (B cells). B cells are essential for
antibody production and humoral immunity.

• Thymus: The thymus is primarily responsible for the development and

maturation of T lymphocytes (T cells). T cells play a crucial role in cell-
mediated immunity, including the recognition and elimination of
infected or abnormal cells.

In these primary lymphoid organs, immature lymphocytes undergo a series of

developmental processes, including gene rearrangements and selection
processes that ensure that these cells are capable of recognizing a wide range
of antigens while also preventing self-reactive lymphocytes from becoming
active.
Once lymphocytes have completed their development in the primary lymphoid
organs, they migrate to secondary lymphoid organs, such as lymph nodes,
spleen, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), where they encounter
antigens and participate in immune responses.

In summary, primary lymphoid organs are essential for the production and
maturation of lymphocytes, which are key players in the immune system’s
ability to recognize and respond to various pathogens and foreign substances

2
 PRIMARY AND SECONDARY LYMPHOID ORGANS .

SECONDARY LYMPHOID ORGANS

Secondary lymphoid organs, also known as peripheral lymphoid organs, are
critical components of the immune system where immune responses are
initiated, coordinated, and executed. These organs serve as meeting places for
immune cells, particularly lymphocytes, and antigens (foreign substances that
can trigger an immune response). The secondary lymphoid organs include:
• Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures
distributed throughout the body along the lymphatic system. They act
as filters for lymph (a clear fluid that circulates throughout the body
and contains immune cells) and are primary sites for the interaction
between antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells, and
lymphocytes. Lymph nodes are crucial for the adaptive immune
response, as they allow B and T cells to encounter antigens and initiate
immune reactions.

• Spleen: The spleen is the largest secondary lymphoid organ in the body
and is located in the upper left abdomen. It filters the blood, removing
damaged blood cells and pathogens. The spleen also serves as a
reservoir for blood and contains specialized areas where B cells and T
cells can respond to antigens.

• Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT): MALT is a collection of

lymphoid tissues found in mucosal surfaces of various organs, including
the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and genitourinary tract. It
includes structures like tonsils, Peyer’s patches in the small intestine,
and more. MALT plays a crucial role in immune defense at mucosal
surfaces, where the body is most exposed to potential pathogens.

• Adenoids and Tonsils: These are clusters of lymphoid tissue located in

the throat and upper respiratory tract. They help protect against
pathogens that enter the body through the mouth and nose.

• Appendix: The appendix is a small pouch-like structure attached to the

large intestine. While its precise function in the immune system is not
fully understood, it contains lymphoid tissue and may play a role in
immune responses in the gut.

3
 PRIMARY AND SECONDARY LYMPHOID ORGANS .

CELLS OF IMMUNE SYSTEM

The immune system is composed of various types of immune cells, each with
specific functions and roles in defending the body against infections and other
threats. These immune cells can be broadly categorized into two main types:
innate immune cells and adaptive immune cells.
INNATE IMMUNE CELLS

ADAPTIVE IMMUNE CELLS

4
PRIMARY AND SECONDARY LYMPHOID ORGANS .

CONCLUSION

5
 PRIMARY AND SECONDARY LYMPHOID ORGANS .

REFERENCES

1. Dulsy Fatima, N Arumugham -2016 - SaraS Immunology – 5th

edition- saras publication - Pg no 41 to 89

2. Dr. C P Anitha Devi -July 2020 - Physiology and Applied

Zoology - 2nd edition - Zoological society of
Kerala - pg 162 to 177