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Structure and function of the spleen.

Reina E Mebius·Georg Kraal
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Abstract

The spleen combines the innate and adaptive immune system in a uniquely organized way. The structure of the spleen enables it to remove older erythrocytes from the circulation and leads to the efficient removal of blood-borne microorganisms and cellular debris. This function, in combination with a highly organized lymphoid compartment, makes the spleen the most important organ for antibacterial and antifungal immune reactivity. A better understanding of the function of this complex organ has been gained from recent studies, as outlined in this Review article.

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AnimalsHumansImmunity, ActiveImmunity, InnateSpleenJournal ArticleReview

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Reina E Mebius, Georg Kraal. 2005. Structure and function of the spleen.. https://doi.org/10.1038/nri1669

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