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AAT Bioquest

What are the differences between blood and lymph?

Posted August 26, 2024


Answer

Basis of differentiation 

Blood 

Lymph 

Definition 

Is a reddish colored fluid that’s part of the circulatory system

Is a colorless fluid that’s part of the lymphatic system

Composition 

Composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma and platelets

Composed of plasma, platelets, and few white blood cells

Is a component of 

The circulatory system

The lymphatic system

Oxygen level

Carries larger quantities of oxygen and digested food 

Carries smaller quantities of oxygen and digested food

Protein and mineral content

Contains proteins, calcium, and phosphorus 

Lacks proteins and minerals

Movement

Moves in a circular manner 

Moves in a single direction 

Speed of flow

Flows quickly  

Flows relatively slower

Supply of nutrients

Supplies nutrients to all organs in the body

Transfers nutrients from cells to blood through lymphatic vessels

Clot formation 

Clots quickly due to higher fibrinogen content

Clots slowly due to lower fibrinogen content

Functions 

Responsible for circulating oxygen, hormones, nutrients, metabolic wates, carbon dioxide, and other toxins

Plays a crucial supportive role in defending the body against foreign invaders and infections

Additional resources

Lymph protects metastasizing melanoma cells from ferroptosis

Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

iFluor® 488 PSA™ Imaging Kit with Goat Anti-Mouse IgG