The interstitium is widely considered to be the 80th organ in the human body. It's a network of fluid-filled spaces that exist throughout the body, surrounding tissues and organs. This discovery, announced in 2018, challenged previous anatomical understandings.
While it's not a solid structure like other organs, the interstitium's interconnectedness and role in various bodily functions led to its classification as an organ. It plays a vital role in:
- Fluid exchange: Facilitating the movement of fluids between tissues and the circulatory system.
- Tissue support: Providing structural support and elasticity to tissues.
- Immune response: Housing immune cells that help defend against pathogens.
- Tissue repair: Facilitating the healing process after injury.
The interstitium was initially overlooked due to the methods used in preparing tissues for microscopic analysis, which caused it to collapse. However, advanced imaging techniques revealed its true structure and importance.
