1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites
ScienceGlobal issues

How does our lymphatic system function?

03:15

This browser does not support the video element.

July 7, 2025

Our cardiovascular system has a great partner in the lymphatic system. It does indispensable work for our immune system and cleans up between the cells.

The video shows how our lymphatic system works undercover to protect our immune system. The network transports about two liters of lymphatic fluid throughout the body, identifies pathogens, trains specialized immune cells and maintains the balance of fluids. Unlike our cardiovascular system, there is no pump to keep it moving. So how does it flow? And what is the function of those mysterious lymph nodes, which sometimes swell alarmingly? Discover this unsung hero of our immune system, which guards our body round the clock.

What's inside us? Our organs, of course. But they don't always get the attention they deserve. The series "Organized" aims to portray the organs of the human body with 3D animations in a vivid, funny and entertaining way helping viewers of all ages understand their special characteristics and how they work. 

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW