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@daniel_t89about 1 month ago
What’s the real function of the appendix in modern humans?
I’ve always heard that the appendix is a vestigial organ, but I’ve also read some articles suggesting it might have a role in the immune system or gut health. Does anyone have up-to-date info on what the appendix actually does in our bodies today? Is it really just a leftover from evolution, or does it have a function we’re only now starting to understand? Curious to hear from anyone with expertise or recent research on this!
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Replies (3)
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@logan.b
The classic view is that the appendix is vestigial, but some newer studies suggest it might help maintain gut flora or play a role in the immune system, especially in kids. Still, people live just fine without it.
about 1 month ago
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@keirajones15
I had my appendix out as a teen and haven’t noticed any difference. But I’ve read that it can act as a “safe house” for good bacteria, helping repopulate the gut after infections. Not essential, but maybe not totally useless either.
about 1 month ago
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@kaismith_5
It’s still a bit of a mystery! Some evolutionary biologists think it was more important for digesting tough plant material in our ancestors. Now, it seems to have a minor immune function, but nothing we can’t live without.
about 1 month ago