Nyirokkötegek

Nyirokkötegek, also known as lymphatic nodules or lymphoid follicles, are organized structures within lymphatic tissue. They are primarily composed of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell crucial for the immune system. These nodules are found in various locations throughout the body, including lymphoid organs like lymph nodes, spleen, and Peyer's patches in the small intestine, as well as in the walls of organs such as the respiratory and digestive tracts.

The main function of nyirokkötegek is to serve as sites for the proliferation and differentiation of lymphocytes, particularly B lymphocytes. Within these nodules, B cells encounter antigens, which are foreign substances that trigger an immune response. Upon stimulation, B cells can undergo activation, proliferate, and differentiate into antibody-producing plasma cells or memory cells. This process is essential for mounting an effective adaptive immune response against pathogens.

Nyirokkötegek can be primary or secondary. Primary nodules are dense clusters of small, resting lymphocytes. Secondary nodules are formed after antigen exposure and are characterized by a germinal center. The germinal center is a region within the nodule where B cells rapidly divide, undergo somatic hypermutation to improve antibody affinity, and class switch recombination to change the type of antibody produced. The presence and structure of nyirokkötegek are indicative of the immune status of an individual and play a vital role in maintaining immunological surveillance and defense.