The Spleen: A Vital Organ You Need to Understand Now

3. Mononuclear Phagocyte System

Part of the immune system that uses phagocytes is the mononuclear phagocyte system. Though this concept is slightly dated, it is a way to understand the roles of certain cells that exist in the spleen and other lymphoid organs. The spleen is the largest part of this process. The phagocytes in the spleen and its surrounding connective tissue make up the majority of the cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system. Its functions include creating new red and white blood cells, destroying old ones, creating plasma proteins, and storing iron.

mladenbalinovac / Getty Images