Final answer:
The lymphoid organs around the gut are called Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), with Peyer's patches being a significant component within the small intestine, crucial for immune responses to ingested substances.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lymphoid Organs Around the Gut
The lymphoid organs located around the gut are collectively referred to as Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). MALT is an aggregate of lymphoid follicles directly associated with the mucous membrane epithelia. An important type of MALT in the small intestine is Peyer's patches, which are essential for immune responses against ingested substances. Peyer's patches contain clusters of lymphocytes and specialized cells that sample and respond to pathogens in the gut.
Functions of MALT
MALT functions as a critical component of the immune system by shielding the body from potentially harmful pathogens that may enter through the digestive tract. It also includes lymphoid nodules, which have a simpler architecture without a surrounding fibrous capsule, located in areas of the body commonly exposed to environmental pathogens.