What small structures along the lymphatic vessels remove and destroy antigens from the blood and lymph?

Lymph nodes play a critical role in the immune system by acting as filters for harmful substances, such as antigens, that may be present in the blood and lymph. These small, bean-shaped structures are distributed throughout the body along the lymphatic vessels. They contain immune cells, including lymphocytes and macrophages, which actively engage in identifying and destroying pathogens.

When lymph fluid, which contains antigens from tissues, passes through the lymph nodes, these immune cells process the antigens and trigger an immune response if needed. This is crucial in protecting the body from infections and diseases, as lymph nodes are integral to the body’s ability to mount an effective defense.

While the spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow are also involved in various aspects of the immune response, their roles differ. The spleen filters blood rather than lymph and removes old or damaged red blood cells in addition to pathogens. The thymus gland is primarily responsible for the maturation of T-lymphocytes and does not filter lymph directly. Bone marrow is the site of blood cell production, including immune cells, but does not directly interact with lymph fluid. Thus, lymph nodes are specifically designed for the task of filtering lymph and managing antigens.