In: Anatomy and Physiology
What 3 types of cells are found in lymph nodes?
- Lymph nodes are secondary lymphoid organs where cells of lymphoid system function (although the cells of lymphoid system are produced in bone marrow and thymus which are considered as primary lymphoid organs).
- The three main cells within lymph nodes are B cells, T cells and plasma cells. Macrophages and dendritic cells are also found in lymph nodes.
- B cells are bone marrow derived lymphocytes that are concerned with humoral (antibody mediated) immunity. B cells are mainly found in the cortex of lymph nodes.
- T cells are thymus derived lymphocytes that are concerned with cell mediated immunity. T cells are mainly found in the paracortex of lymph nodes.
- Plasma cells are specialized B cells that produce antibodies. Plasma cells are found in the medulla of lymph nodes. Along with the plasma cells, medulla of lymph nodes also contain macrophages that are phagocytic cells which engulf and digest harmful antigens.