Lecture on Lymphocytes

Introduction

• Focus on the second type of white blood cells: lymphocytes
• Importance of understanding formation and maturation of lymphocytes

Formation of Lymphocytes

• Formed in the bone marrow, similar to other blood cells
• Begin as blood stem cells dividing through mitosis
• Differentiate into two types:
  • Immature B lymphocytes
  • Immature T lymphocytes

Maturation of Lymphocytes

• Maturation involves cell growth and development
• B Lymphocytes
  • Mature in the Bone Marrow (B for bone marrow)
• T Lymphocytes
  • Mature in the Thymus (T for thymus)
  • Thymus located behind the sternum, part of lymphatic system

Characteristics of Mature Lymphocytes

• Increase in size compared to immature counterparts
• Development of receptor proteins on cell surface membranes
• Highly specific receptors:
  • Each lymphocyte has receptors complementary to one type of antigen

Functionality of Receptors

• Receptors determine specificity:
  • Only respond to antigens that fit their specific shape
  • Important for targeting foreign substances (pathogens)

Specificity and Immune Response

• Lymphocytes are highly specific in their response
• B and T lymphocytes respond differently to antigens
• Differences in B and T Lymphocytes
  • Maturation location:
    • B: Bone marrow
    • T: Thymus
  • Immune response strategies differ (to be covered in next video)

Summary

• Understanding lymphocytes' formation, maturation, and specificity is crucial for exams
• Key takeaway is their specificity and role in the immune system