Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)

Definition

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) is a collection of lymphoid tissues found in various mucosal membranes, including those lining the respiratory tract. It plays a crucial role in immune response by protecting mucosal surfaces from pathogens.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. MALT includes structures such as tonsils, Peyer's patches, and bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT).
2. It contains specialized immune cells like T cells, B cells, and macrophages to combat infections.
3. The respiratory tract's MALT is particularly important for defending against airborne pathogens.
4. MALT can generate an adaptive immune response by presenting antigens to T and B cells.
5. Chronic inflammation or infection of MALT can lead to conditions such as MALT lymphoma.

Review Questions

• What types of structures are included in mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue?
• How does MALT contribute to the immune response in the respiratory tract?
• What types of immune cells are primarily found in MALT?

Related terms

Tonsils: Lymphoid tissues located at the back of the throat that are part of MALT.

Bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT): A specific type of MALT found in the respiratory tract.

Peyer's patches: Aggregates of lymphoid tissue found in the small intestine that are part of MALT.