Answered

Besides filtering blood for foreign materials and phagocytosis of old, defective erythrocytes, the spleen is also involved in what other major function?

Answer :

Functions of spleen

Explanation:

The major functions of spleen besides filtering the blood of foreign materials and phagocytosis of old defective erythrocytes are:

  • Body defense:
  1. Initiate immune responses against infections by liberation of antigen and activation of lymphocytes (T and B cells)  
  2. Secretes bactericidal agents which act against invading bacteria
  3. Secretes interleukins which promote the growth of lymphocytes or antibodies that act against pathogens
  • Reservoir: Pools blood by storing thrombocytes, immature erythrocytes.
  • Hematopoiesis: Blood cells like erythrocytes, lymphocytes and monocytes develop and mature in spleen especially during the early fetal life.  

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