What is the Histological Structure of Peyer's Patches?
Histologically, Peyer's Patches are composed of a few key components:
Lymphoid Follicles: These are densely packed with B lymphocytes and are the primary site of antigen presentation and subsequent antibody production. Germinal Centers: Within the follicles, these centers are where B lymphocytes proliferate, differentiate, and mutate their antibody genes during an immune response. T-cell Zones: These areas surround the follicles and contain T lymphocytes and dendritic cells, which are crucial for antigen presentation and T cell activation. Follicle-associated Epithelium (FAE): This specialized epithelium overlays the lymphoid follicles and contains M cells that transport antigens from the intestinal lumen to the immune cells within the Peyer's Patches.
