Lymphopoiesis
Lymphopoiesis
Lymphopoiesis (pronounced lim-foh-poy-EE-sis) is the process by which lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, are produced in the body. This process is a crucial part of the immune system, as lymphocytes play a key role in the body's defense against disease and infection.
Etymology
The term "lymphopoiesis" is derived from the Greek words "lympho," meaning clear, watery fluid, and "poiesis," meaning to make or produce. Thus, lymphopoiesis refers to the production of lymphocytes.
Process
Lymphopoiesis begins in the bone marrow, where stem cells differentiate into lymphoid progenitor cells. These progenitor cells then migrate to the thymus, where they further differentiate into T lymphocytes, or to the lymph nodes and spleen, where they differentiate into B lymphocytes.
Related Terms
- Lymphocyte: A type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. There are two main types of lymphocytes: B cells and T cells.
- Bone Marrow: The spongy tissue inside some of your bones, such as your hip and thigh bones. It contains immature cells, called stem cells.
- Thymus: A lymphoid organ situated in the neck of vertebrates which produces T-cells for the immune system.
- Lymph Nodes: Small, bean-shaped organs that produce and store cells that fight infection and disease.
- Spleen: The largest organ in the lymphatic system. It is an important organ for keeping bodily fluids balanced, but it is possible to live without it.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lymphopoiesis
- Wikipedia's article - Lymphopoiesis
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