BIOS 242 Week 5 Immune and Lymphatic system Lab

BIOS 242 Week 5 Immune and Lymphatic system Lab

Student Name

Chamberlain University

BIOS-242 Fundamentals of Microbiology

Prof. Name:

Date

Week 5 Immune and Lymphatic System Lab

This lab consists of two parts. In the first part, students will label the anatomical structures involved in the lymphatic system. The second part involves answering various questions related to the lymphatic system and its functions. Upon completion of this lab, students are required to submit their work to the assigned basket.

Part 1: Anatomical Structures of the Lymphatic System

Below is a list of anatomical structures, each followed by a corresponding letter for labeling purposes:

Part 2: Questions and Answers

1. Why is the lymphatic system a one-way system, whereas the blood vascular system is a two-way system?

The lymphatic system is a one-way system because it absorbs lymph from the interstitial fluid, processes it in the lymph nodes, and then transports it through the lymphatic ducts and trunks to be emptied into the subclavian and jugular veins, ultimately returning it to the bloodstream. In contrast, the blood vascular system is two-way as it supplies nutrients and gases to cells while also removing waste products.

2. How do lymphatic vessels resemble veins?

Lymphatic vessels are similar to veins in that both rely on external assistance, such as muscle contractions, to facilitate the movement of fluid. However, lymphatic vessels are larger and lack a well-developed tunica media, which is present in veins.

3. How do lymphatic capillaries differ from blood capillaries?

Lymphatic capillaries differ from blood capillaries in that they transport lymphatic fluid from tissues to lymphatic venules, whereas blood capillaries carry blood from arterioles to venules. Lymphatic capillaries have a slightly larger diameter and thinner walls compared to blood capillaries.

4. What is the function of the lymphatic vessels?

Lymphatic vessels carry lymph from peripheral tissues to the venous system. They are involved in transporting lymphocytes, removing foreign matter and cellular debris through phagocytosis, and play a key role in the body’s immune system. Additionally, they help transport fats from the small intestine to the blood.

5. What is lymph?

Lymph is a clear to yellowish watery fluid found throughout the body. It circulates through tissues, collecting fats, bacteria, and other unwanted materials, which are then filtered out through the lymphatic system. Lymph is similar to plasma but contains white blood cells (lymphocytes) and chyle.

6. What factors are involved in the flow of lymphatic fluid?

The flow of lymphatic fluid is aided by the milking action of skeletal muscles and pressure changes within the thorax that occur during breathing.

7. What name is given to the terminal duct draining most of the body?

The terminal duct draining most of the body is the thoracic duct.

8. What is the function of B cells in the immune response?

B cells differentiate into plasma cells upon activation and secrete antibodies. These antibodies bind to specific antigens, marking them for destruction. This process is known as humoral immunity.

9. What is the role of T cells?

T cells directly attack virus-infected tissue cells. Helper T cells activate B cells, turning them into plasma cells, while cytotoxic T cells directly destroy infected cells. T cells are involved in cellular immunity.

1. Define the following term related to the operation of the immune system: Recognition of self from non-self.

   “Recognition of self from non-self” refers to the immune system’s ability to differentiate between the body’s own cells (self) and foreign invaders (non-self), such as pathogens and allergens. The immune system recognizes self-cells as harmless, while non-self invaders are identified and attacked. Memory cells play a role in improving the immune response by remembering previously encountered pathogens.

BIOS 242 Week 5 Immune and Lymphatic system Lab