What are the tiny, oval-shaped structures located along lymph vessels that filter lymph called?

Lymph nodes are tiny, oval-shaped structures located along lymph vessels that play a crucial role in the immune system. They act as filters for lymphatic fluid, trapping pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, as well as cancer cells. When lymph fluid flows through these nodes, the immune cells (such as lymphocytes and macrophages) within them can respond to any foreign invaders, initiating an immune response. This filtering process is essential for maintaining the body’s defense against infections and diseases.

The other structures mentioned serve different functions within the immune system. The spleen, for instance, acts as a blood filter and stores white blood cells and platelets, but it is not directly involved in filtering lymph. The thymus is responsible for the maturation of T-cells, a type of white blood cell, but does not filter lymph. Bone marrow is responsible for producing blood cells, including red blood cells and leukocytes, but again, it does not filter lymphatic fluid.