Question

What is the function of dendritic cells within lymph nodes?

A. They initiate replication of macrophages.
B. They conduct signals between activated T-lymphocytes to accelerate the immune response.
C. They collect antigens and present them to T-lymphocytes.
D. They secrete lymphatic hormones to stimulate adjacent lymph nodes.
E. They absorb fluid when infected, causing the lymph nodes to swell and become tender to the touch.

Answer 1

Dendritic cells within lymph nodes function as antigen-presenting cells that capture antigens and present them to T-lymphocytes to activate the immune response.

Step-by-step explanation:

The function of dendritic cells within lymph nodes is primarily to capture and present antigens to T-lymphocytes, which then activate an immune response. Dendritic cells, which are antigen-presenting cells (APCs), play a crucial role in the body's immune defense by collecting antigens as lymph drains from tissues and bringing these antigens to the regional draining lymph nodes. Once there, they display the antigens on their surface to T-lymphocytes, thereby priming the T cells to respond to the pathogen. This interaction is pivotal in mounting an immune response against pathogens present in the interstitial tissues.