What is the lymphocyte function?
The general function of lymphocytes and other components of the immune system is to recognize and eliminate threats to the body. To function effectively, lymphocytes must be able to distinguish between normal cells and infected cells or invasive pathogens. Each of the three types of lymphocytes has this ability. Some lymphocytes are part of the generalized reaction of the congenital immune system and respond quickly to threats. Others counteract specific pathogens or infected cells and are part of an adaptive immune response. After activation, the function of lymphocytes is to identify and destroy viral infected cells and tumor cells. Using signals detected on cells infected with pathogen, which distinguish them from normal cells, NK cells can distinguish between healthy and infected cells. NK cells then release substances that perforate the cell membrane of abnormal cell. Once perforated, other molecules released by NK with cells enter and destroy the cell and the viruses infect it.
The primary function of lymphocytes of the congenital immune system is to provide an immediate response to a viral attack. In addition to this function, NK cells may also distinguish cells that are cancerous or have infections caused by microbes. NK cells focus and destroy these cells in the same way as eliminating cells with viral infections. Although the place and process of maturation of NK cells is not fully understood, billions of people's blood are found at the same time.
The lymphocytes of the adaptive immune system are specific to a particular antigen - foreign substances for the body. The function of lymphocytes in this secondary line of defense is to identify the pathogens and toxins they previously encountered. During the subsequent meetings, these lymphocytes respond quickly to the protection of the body from infection. The adaptive immune system includes B lymphocytes or B cells and t lymphocytes or t cells. Both types are produced in the bone marrow; But there b cells ripen while t cells migrate to the thym on ripenedand.
B cells work to eventually produce antibodies specific to antigen. These antibodies are produced in large quantities, especially when the antigen is repeatedly exposed. T cells can be further divided into several types. Some control the action of other cells of the immune system, while others kill cells infected with specific pathogens. Both B cells and cells have the ability to remember antigens for a stronger and faster reaction when they meet with antigen in the future.