What does RES mean in HUMAN GENOME

The Reticuloendothelial System (RES) is a group of cells found throughout the body that have an important role in the immune system. It helps to protect our bodies from harmful microorganisms and other environmental threats.

The main function of the RES is to remove and filter unwanted substances from the bloodstream and lymph system. It also plays a role in activating immunity by producing antibodies, phagocytizing foreign particles, and destroying bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Reticuloendothelial cells are found throughout the body but are concentrated in certain areas including the spleen, liver, lymph nodes, thymus gland, tonsils, bone marrow, skin tissue and mucous membranes of respiratory organs such as bronchi or lungs.

By removing dead cells and debris from circulation; by phagocytizing foreign particles such as microbes or parasites; by producing antibodies which attach to antigens on these particles; by processing antigens for presentation on MHC molecules; or by secreting defense molecules like cytokines that help recruit other immune cells for defense.

Dysfunctions in this system can be caused by genetic defects (such as Chediak-Higashi Syndrome), infections (such as HIV), immune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, chronic inflammation due to long-term exposure to toxins like alcohol or drugs; poor nutrition; aging; radiation therapy; chemotherapy; organ transplantation or disorders like cancer involving any organ with RES cells.