Lymphocytes are primarily stored in lymph nodes, as highlighted in the provided reference.
The Role of Lymph Nodes in Storing Lymphocytes
Based on the information available:
- Lymph nodes are described as small, bean-shaped masses of lymphatic tissue.
- They are located along lymph vessels throughout the body.
- A key function of these nodes is that they store lymphocytes.
- Beyond storage, lymph nodes also serve as vital filters, removing waste, bacteria, and damaged cells (including cancer cells) from the lymph fluid.
- The lymphocytes residing within the lymph nodes actively work to attack bacteria and viruses detected in the lymph.
Therefore, the reference explicitly identifies lymph nodes as a storage location for lymphocytes.
Lymph nodes are critical components of the body's immune system, acting as central hubs where lymphocytes can be held ready and activated when needed to fight off infections and diseases present in the lymphatic fluid.