Page 10 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

Lymphocytes: Producing Killers

Medical gallery of Blausen Medical, 2014, CC. 3.0

Lymphocytes are another component of our immune system. They are a type of white
blood cell that includes natural killer cells, as well as T and B cells. Each type of
lymphocyte has its own, specialized job to help fight invaders. Natural killer cells are a
component of the innate immune system. These cells target tumors and cells infected by
viruses. They respond to the affected cells in the body by releasing a substance that kills
the cell. T cells originate in the thymus. They activate phagocytes, cytotoxic T-
lymphocytes, and cytokines. B cells originate in the bone marrow. These cells are
responsible for the production of antibodies, which work to counteract the invader.

The substance our bodies produce called lymph fluid mostly contains these types of cells.
Lymph is a type of fluid that flows throughout the lymphatic system and works to flush
invaders to the lymph nodes where they are then destroyed.

The Lymphatic System
As previously mentioned, lymphocytes a component of the lymphatic system. The
lymphatic system is a crucial part of the immune system. This network of vessels carries
lymph throughout the body. This open system is comprised of several areas called lymph
nodes where large amounts of lymphocytes can be found. Lymph nodes are located in our
chest, neck, armpits, groin, and pelvis. Lymph will pass through these regions on its way
back to the blood. Sometimes, lymph nodes can become enlarged. This is often the result
of a reaction in response to an infection. Other times, areas can become swollen with
lymph, which may be a sign of damage to the lymphatic system. In rare cases, nodules or

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