Reticuloendothelial system
The reticuloendothelial system (RES), also known as the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS), is a network of cells and tissues in the body that play a critical role in the immune system and in the clearance of foreign substances and cellular debris from the blood and tissues.
The RES consists of several types of cells, including macrophages, monocytes, dendritic cells, and certain types of white blood cells. These cells are located primarily in the spleen, liver, lymph nodes, and bone marrow, and they work together to identify and remove foreign particles and cellular debris from the bloodstream.
The main functions of the RES include:
- Phagocytosis: The cells of the RES are capable of engulfing and digesting foreign particles such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that have entered the body.
- Clearance of waste products: The RES also plays a role in removing cellular debris and metabolic waste products from the blood.
- Antigen presentation: The cells of the RES are capable of presenting antigens to other cells of the immune system, which helps to initiate and coordinate immune responses.
- Iron recycling: The RES is responsible for recycling iron from old or damaged red blood cells and returning it to the bloodstream for reuse.
Disorders of the RES can lead to a range of health problems, including immunodeficiency, autoimmune diseases, and certain types of cancer. For example, dysfunction of the RES can contribute to the development of chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. In some cases, drugs that target the cells of the RES, such as macrophages, may be used as a therapeutic approach for these conditions.
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