Question

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

Answer 1

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.