Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

20. The Lymphatic System

Lymphatic Vasculature

Anatomy & Physiology

20. The Lymphatic System

Lymphatic Vasculature

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3:08 minutes

Problem 3

Textbook Question

Entry of lymph into the lymphatic capillaries is promoted by which of the following?
a. One-way minivalves formed by overlapping endothelial cells
b. The respiratory pump
c. The skeletal muscle pump
d. Greater fluid pressure in the interstitial space

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the structure of lymphatic capillaries: Lymphatic capillaries are small, thin-walled vessels that collect excess interstitial fluid (lymph) from tissues. Their walls are made of overlapping endothelial cells that act as one-way valves.

Recognize the role of pressure gradients: Entry of lymph into lymphatic capillaries is driven by a pressure gradient. When the pressure in the interstitial space is greater than the pressure inside the lymphatic capillaries, the overlapping endothelial cells open, allowing fluid to enter.

Analyze the function of one-way minivalves: The overlapping endothelial cells form one-way minivalves. These valves ensure that lymph flows into the capillaries but cannot flow back out into the interstitial space.

Evaluate the other options: While the respiratory pump and skeletal muscle pump assist in moving lymph through larger lymphatic vessels, they do not directly promote the entry of lymph into the lymphatic capillaries. These mechanisms are more relevant to lymph transport rather than initial entry.

Conclude that the correct answer is related to the structural feature of the lymphatic capillaries: The one-way minivalves formed by overlapping endothelial cells are the primary mechanism promoting the entry of lymph into the lymphatic capillaries.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Lymphatic Capillaries

Lymphatic capillaries are small, thin-walled vessels that collect lymph fluid from tissues. They are characterized by their unique structure, which includes overlapping endothelial cells that form one-way minivalves. These minivalves allow interstitial fluid to enter the capillaries while preventing backflow, facilitating the movement of lymph towards larger lymphatic vessels.

Interstitial Fluid Pressure

Interstitial fluid pressure refers to the pressure exerted by fluid in the spaces between cells in tissues. When this pressure is greater than the pressure inside the lymphatic capillaries, it promotes the entry of lymph into these vessels. This pressure differential is crucial for the effective drainage of excess fluid from tissues, preventing edema and maintaining fluid balance.

Mechanisms of Lymph Flow

The flow of lymph through the lymphatic system is aided by several mechanisms, including the respiratory pump and the skeletal muscle pump. The respiratory pump utilizes changes in thoracic pressure during breathing to help draw lymph into the thoracic duct, while the skeletal muscle pump relies on muscle contractions during movement to compress lymphatic vessels, pushing lymph forward. Together, these mechanisms enhance lymphatic circulation.

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