<h2>Functions of spleen</h2>
Explanation:
The major functions of spleen besides filtering the blood of foreign materials and phagocytosis of old defective erythrocytes are:
- Initiate immune responses against infections by liberation of antigen and activation of lymphocytes (T and B cells)
- Secretes bactericidal agents which act against invading bacteria
- 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.
