In anatomy and physiology, what does MALT stand for and what is its primary role?

• A. Microbe-activated leukocyte thymus; site of T-cell maturation in the anterior mediastinum.
• B. Myelin-associated lymphoid tract; insulates peripheral nerves and prevents saltatory conduction loss.
• C. Muscle-adjacent lymphatic tissue; generates erythrocytes in skeletal muscle during infection.
• D. Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue; provides immune surveillance and responses at mucosal surfaces (e.g., GI, respiratory, and urogenital tracts).

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the acronym MALT and understand that it stands for Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue.
2. Recognize that MALT is a component of the immune system located in mucosal linings such as the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urogenital tracts.
3. Understand that the primary role of MALT is to provide immune surveillance, meaning it monitors and detects pathogens at these mucosal surfaces.
4. Know that MALT initiates immune responses by activating lymphocytes and other immune cells to protect the body from infection at these vulnerable entry points.
5. Differentiate MALT from other lymphoid tissues by its specific location and function related to mucosal immunity rather than systemic or central immune functions.