How does the appendix protect the human body?

How does the appendix protect the human body?

( 5) According to the so-called “safe house” theory, the appendix protects a collection of beneficial gut bacteria when certain diseases wipe them out from elsewhere in the GI tract. Once the immune system has rid the body of the infection, the bacteria emerge from the appendix biofilm and recolonize the gut.

Is the appendix part of the gastrointestinal tract?

The appendix is a thin, roughly four-inch-long tube that’s part of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract is a complex group of organs, each of which helps your body digest and absorb food. Your upper GI tract includes your esophagus, stomach, and the first section of your small intestine, called the duodenum.

What is the function of the appendix in the fetus?

By helping to manage the production of antigens and the immune response of the gut, the appendix can also strengthen the body against autoimmune diseases. As a fetus, the appendix also has a critical function – holding endocrine cells.

Why is the appendix considered a safe house?

According to the so-called “safe house” theory, the appendix protects a collection of beneficial gut bacteria when certain diseases wipe them out from elsewhere in the GI tract. Once the immune system has rid the body of the infection, the bacteria emerge from the appendix biofilm and recolonize the gut. (6)

What function does the appendix serve our body?

The appendix helps to maintain hemeostasis in a developing fetus. Another function of the appendix is one that was not evolutionarily intended: it can be used as a replacement bladder. If the healthy organ is left intact, it can be recycled in the event that a patient develops bladder disease.

What is the function of the appendix of our digestive system?

The function of the appendix is unknown . One theory is that the appendix acts as a storehouse for good bacteria, “rebooting” the digestive system after diarrheal illnesses. Other experts believe the appendix is just a useless remnant from our evolutionary past.

What is digestive function does the appendix perform?

What Does the Appendix Do? 1. Reserves Good Bacteria for Digestive Health. One of the most important roles of the appendix is producing and protecting beneficial probiotic bacteria colonies within the digestive system. Researchers know that our digestive systems contain bacteria which we need in order to properly digest food.

What is the function of the human appendix?

Another known function of the appendix is that it helps in production and preservation of good bacteria in the stomach. The appendix serves as a reservoir for good bacteria helping in the process of establishing the optimum bacterial flora in the gut.