What is the function of lymphocytes in the immune system?

Lymphocytes play a crucial role in the immune system primarily by producing antibodies and targeting pathogens, which include bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders in the body. They are a type of white blood cell and come in two main varieties: B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes.

B lymphocytes are responsible for the production of antibodies, which are proteins that specifically recognize and bind to certain antigens (foreign substances), marking them for destruction or neutralization. T lymphocytes, on the other hand, are involved in a variety of immune responses, including directly killing infected cells (cytotoxic T cells) and helping to regulate and coordinate the immune response (helper T cells).

This process is fundamental to the body's ability to defend itself against infectious agents and supporting overall immune function. Lymphocytes not only respond to infections but also help in immunological memory, enabling the body to respond more rapidly and effectively upon subsequent exposures to the same pathogens.

The other options pertain to different functions within the body: carrying oxygen in the blood is primarily the role of red blood cells; blood clotting is facilitated by platelets and clotting factors; and the removal of waste from tissues is mainly the responsibility of the lymphatic and circulatory systems, which