Blymfocyty

Blymfocyty, more commonly known as lymphocytes, are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the adaptive immune system. They are essential for recognizing and remembering specific pathogens, allowing the body to mount a targeted and efficient defense. Lymphocytes originate in the bone marrow, where they are produced from hematopoietic stem cells.

There are three main types of lymphocytes: B cells, T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. B cells are responsible for humoral immunity. Upon encountering an antigen, they differentiate into plasma cells that produce antibodies. These antibodies can neutralize pathogens directly or mark them for destruction by other immune cells. T cells are involved in cell-mediated immunity. Helper T cells assist in activating other immune cells, while cytotoxic T cells directly kill infected or cancerous cells. NK cells, while technically lymphocytes, are part of the innate immune system and can kill virus-infected cells and tumor cells without prior sensitization.

Lymphocytes circulate throughout the body via the bloodstream and lymphatic system. They reside in lymphoid organs such as the lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus. When a foreign substance is detected, lymphocytes migrate to the site of infection or inflammation to initiate an immune response. Their ability to distinguish between self and non-self is critical for preventing autoimmune diseases. The study of lymphocytes is fundamental to understanding immunology and the development of vaccines and immunotherapies.