Modified capillaries that are lined with phagocytes are called – Modified capillaries lined with phagocytes, also known as sinusoids, are specialized blood vessels that play a crucial role in immune surveillance and tissue homeostasis. These capillaries are characterized by their unique structural features and location within the body, enabling them to efficiently capture and clear pathogens, maintain tissue integrity, and facilitate immune responses.
Found in organs such as the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, sinusoids possess fenestrated endothelial cells that allow for the passage of molecules and cells. The lining of phagocytic cells, primarily macrophages and dendritic cells, endows these capillaries with the ability to engulf and process foreign particles, cellular debris, and pathogens.
Modified Capillaries Lined with Phagocytes
Modified capillaries lined with phagocytes, also known as sinusoidal capillaries, are specialized blood vessels that play crucial roles in immune responses and tissue homeostasis. They are characterized by their enlarged lumen, thin endothelial lining, and the presence of phagocytic cells lining their inner surface.
Functions and Roles, Modified capillaries that are lined with phagocytes are called
Modified capillaries lined with phagocytes perform several essential functions, including:
- Immune surveillance:They constantly monitor the blood for pathogens and other foreign particles.
- Phagocytosis:The phagocytic cells lining these capillaries engulf and destroy pathogens, debris, and damaged cells.
- Antigen presentation:They present antigens to immune cells, initiating adaptive immune responses.
- Tissue homeostasis:They contribute to the removal of cellular debris and waste products, maintaining tissue health.
- Wound healing:They facilitate the recruitment of immune cells and promote tissue repair.
Regulation and Activation
The activation of modified capillaries lined with phagocytes is regulated by various factors, including:
- Pathogen recognition:The presence of pathogens triggers the release of inflammatory mediators, which activate the phagocytic cells.
- Cytokines:Cytokines produced by immune cells, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-1 (IL-1), stimulate phagocytosis.
- Immune complexes:The binding of immune complexes to Fc receptors on phagocytic cells triggers their activation.
Clinical Significance
Abnormalities in modified capillaries lined with phagocytes have been linked to several diseases and conditions, including:
- Inflammatory diseases:Chronic inflammation can lead to the activation and enlargement of these capillaries, contributing to tissue damage.
- Cancer:Tumor cells can induce the formation of modified capillaries to promote angiogenesis and metastasis.
- Liver diseases:Liver cirrhosis is characterized by the loss of sinusoidal capillaries, leading to impaired liver function.
FAQ Compilation: Modified Capillaries That Are Lined With Phagocytes Are Called
What are modified capillaries lined with phagocytes?
Modified capillaries lined with phagocytes, also known as sinusoids, are specialized blood vessels that contain fenestrated endothelial cells and a lining of phagocytic cells, primarily macrophages and dendritic cells.
What is the function of sinusoids?
Sinusoids play a crucial role in immune surveillance and tissue homeostasis. They capture and clear pathogens, maintain tissue integrity, and facilitate immune responses.
Where are sinusoids found?
Sinusoids are found in organs such as the liver, spleen, and bone marrow.
How do sinusoids contribute to immune responses?
The phagocytic cells lining sinusoids engulf and process foreign particles, cellular debris, and pathogens, presenting antigens to immune cells and initiating immune responses.