Question

State the main functions of lymphocytes.

Answer 1

Lymphocytes are circulated by lymph to various parts of the body. Lymph is a pale-white liquid due to the presence of white blood cells and acts as a middle man between the tissues and the blood system.

Complete step by step answer:
Leukocytes or the white blood cells are of various types, including lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are mononuclear leukocytes and constitute 20-40% of total WBCs. They are of two main types- B-lymphocytes, T-lymphocytes. Their functions are as follows:
- They produce antibodies against any foreign antigens that have entered our bodies. An antibody is a protein secreted by B-lymphocytes in the blood and is specific for different types of antigens. Antigens are specific sets of molecules that may be proteins or lipids, present on the surface of pathogens, and identified by antibodies.
- T-cells provide protection against any intracellular pathogens such as viruses and some bacteria or parasites that multiply in the cytoplasm of the host cell where they are sheltered from attack by antibodies. T-cells provide this protection by killing the infected cell before the invaded microbe can proliferate and escape the infected cell to attack the healthy cells.

Note:
- The lymphatic system is made up of lymph, lymphatic capillaries, and lymphoid organs.
- The fluid collected between the spaces of cells in a tissue is called lymph or interstitial fluid or tissue fluid. It contains more water than plasma of the blood. It is colorless due to the absence of RBCs.