< The Organ Systems

Immune System

Function of System:

Defends the body against infectious organisms and other invaders.


How it aids in homeostasis:

The immune system aids in homeostasis by preventing pathogens from disrupting the body's normal functions. It achieves this in various ways, including adaptive immunity when the body encounters a new pathogen, innate immunity, secreting acids on to the skin and using mucus membranes to breakdown bacteria.


Image of system:


Name and function of Major Organs:

The key primary lymphoid organs of the immune system are the thymus and bone marrow, and secondary lymphatic tissues such as spleen, tonsils, lymph vessels, lymph nodes, adenoids, and skin and liver. Leukocytes (White blood cells) act like independent, single celled organisms and are the second arm of the innate immune system. The innate leukocytes include the phagocytes (macrophags,neutrophils, and dendritic cells), basophils, and natural killer cells. These cells identify and eliminate pathogens and are also important mediators in the activation of the adaptive immune system.


The cells of the adaptive immune system are special types of leukocytes, called lymphocytes. Bcells and T cells are the major types of lymphocytes and are derived from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow.The lymphatic system is a part of the circulatory system, comprising a network of conduits called lymphatic vessels. The lymphatic system has multiple functions such as the transportation of white blood cells to and from the lymph nodes into the bones.Lymphocytes A lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell in the vertebrate immune system. The three major types of lymphocyte are T cells, B cells and natural killer (NK) cells. T cells (thymus cells) and B cells (bursa-derived cells) are the major cellular components of the adaptive immune response.Leukocytes Cells of the immune system involved in defending the body against both infectious disease and foreign materials. Five different and diverse types of leukocytes exist.


Reference sources (APA):

CELLS AND ORGANS OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM In-text: ("Cells And Organs Of The Immune System") Your Bibliography: "Cells And Organs Of The Immune System". Boundless. N.p., 2017. Web. 12 Apr. 2017.

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