Scientists have found out what is the role of the appendix in the human body
For many years, the appendix has been considered to be an unnecessary organ that no longer fulfills any function for the human body. It was believed to be a “remnant” of the distant past. According to scientists, that theory is wrong. The appendix is a crucial organ in the human body.
Many people have to undergo surgery that removes the appendix, mainly because it gets inflamed and can lead to appendicitis, a serious medical condition. Recently, researchers at Midwestern University in Arizona have come to a surprising conclusion: the appendix has an important role in the human body. It is a reservoir for beneficial gut bacteria.
This small organ is a true “reservoir” of beneficial gut bacteria in human body. It contributes to the intestinal flora that is essential to digestion. The scientists have examined the digestive function of 533 different mammalian species. Many of them, including primates, have appendices, but others do not.
Interestingly, the appendix has evolved in different species, so it is not an unnecessary remnant organ.
Animals that have an appendix have a higher concentration of lymphoid tissue in the intestines. This tissue has an important role in stimulating the immune system. It determines the production of beneficial bacteria, which are kept in the appendix and released into the intestines when needed.
We can conclude by saying that people who have no appendix are recovering more severely after certain diseases.
