12.8.2 The Immune System: Structure and Function

Question 1

The Immune System: Structure and Function

Answer 1

• The two different specific immune responses are the humoral response, which involves antibodies produced by B cells, and the cell-mediated response, which involves cytotoxic T cells.
• The lymphatic system is a system of vessels and associated organs that plays a major role in the immune system. The lymph system consists of lymph, lymph vessels, lymph nodes, and the spleen.
• Lymphocytes are white blood cells that mature into T and B cells. T cells are lymphocytes that matured in the thymus and B cells are lymphocytes that matured in bone marrow.
• The specific immune response is characterized by four features: (1) it can distinguish between self and nonself, (2) it will respond to a diverse array of pathogens, (3) it is specific, meaning that it can distinguish between pathogens, and (4) it has memory.

Question 2

lymphatic system

Answer 2

• The body’s immune system consists of a network of
  components that work together. Central to the immune
  system is the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system
  consists of a system of vessels that carry lymph, a fluid
  derived from blood and tissues. When found in blood, lymph is referred to as plasma, and when found in the tissues, it is referred to as interstitial fluid. Lymph travels through lymph vessels and is eventually returned to the blood stream.

Question 3

lymph nodes

Answer 3

• regions where lymph vessels come together. Lymph nodes function as filters for cells, bacteria, and other matter in the lymph. Large numbers of leukocytes
  (white blood cells) are found in the lymph nodes, where they guard against foreign materials in the lymph.

Question 4

thymus

Answer 4

• The thymus is a gland located just above the heart that is involved in the development of the immune system.
  Lymphocytes that develop in the thymus become T cells.

Question 5

Which of the following are the characteristics necessary for an immune system?

Answer 5

• Recognition of self vs. non-self; diversity; specificity; memory

Question 6

True or false?

B cells begin as eurythrocytes and T cells start off as lymphocytes.

Answer 6

• false

Question 7

B cells got their name from the bone marrow where they mature.

Answer 7

• false

Question 8

The _______________ is located on the left side of the abdomen just above the stomach. It serves as a storage site for leukocytes.

Answer 8

• spleen

Question 9

Which of the following is not equivalent?

Answer 9

• blood

Question 10

Which of the following are involved in the humoral response?

Answer 10

• B cells.

- Antibodies

Question 11

The __________________ is a gland located just above the heart where lymphocytes mature into T cells.

Answer 11

• thymus