Primary Lymphoid Organs
Primary lymphoid organs, also known as central lymphoid organs, are the sites where immune cells originate, proliferate, and undergo maturation. The two primary lymphoid organs in humans are the bone marrow and the thymus.
Also Read: What Are Lymphoid Organs?
Primary Lymphoid Organs Examples
The examples of primary lymphoid organs are:
- Bone Marrow: The bone marrow is a soft, spongy tissue found in the center of certain bones, such as the sternum, ribs, and long bones. It serves as the primary site for the production and development of immune cells called lymphocytes, including B cells and T cells.
- Thymus: The thymus is a gland located in the upper chest behind the sternum. It plays a crucial role in the maturation of T cells, another type of lymphocyte. Immature T cells from the bone marrow migrate to the thymus, where they undergo a process of education and selection. This process allows T cells to recognize foreign antigens while avoiding self-reactivity. The thymus involutes, or shrinks, with age, but it remains active throughout childhood and adolescence.
Difference Between Primary and Secondary Lymphoid Organs
The difference between primary and secondary lymphoid organs lies in their roles in the immune system. Primary lymphoid organs are where lymphocytes mature, while secondary lymphoid organs are where lymphocytes become activated to respond to pathogens.
In this article, we will cover the difference between primary and secondary lymphoid organs, their functions, and some similarities they share.
Table of Content
- Primary Lymphoid Organs
- Primary Lymphoid Organs Examples
- Secondary Lymphoid Organs
- Secondary Lymphoid Organs Examples
- Difference Between Primary and Secondary Lymphoid Organs
- Conclusion – Difference Between Primary and Secondary Lymphoid Organs
- Other Related Articles on Differences
- FAQs on Difference Between Primary and Secondary Lymphoid Organs
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