lümfotsüüte

Lümfotsüüte, often referred to as lymphocytes, are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the immune system. They are essential for fighting off infections and protecting the body from disease. Lymphocytes are produced in the bone marrow and mature in various lymphoid tissues, including the lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus.

There are three main types of lymphocytes: B cells, T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. B cells are responsible for producing antibodies, which are proteins that target and neutralize specific pathogens. T cells have a variety of functions, including directly killing infected cells and regulating the immune response. NK cells, as their name suggests, can kill infected or cancerous cells without prior sensitization.

Lymphocytes circulate throughout the body in the blood and lymph fluid, constantly monitoring for foreign invaders. When a pathogen is detected, lymphocytes are activated and multiply, mounting an immune response. This response can involve the production of antibodies, the destruction of infected cells, or the modulation of other immune cells.

Disruptions in lymphocyte function can lead to a range of health problems, including immunodeficiency disorders, autoimmune diseases, and certain types of cancer. Medical conditions affecting lymphocyte counts, whether too high or too low, can indicate underlying health issues that require medical attention. The study of lymphocytes is a vital area of immunology, contributing to our understanding of health and disease and the development of new treatments.