thymus gland
located anterior to and above the heart; secretes thymosin
The thymus gland is a small organ located in the chest, just behind the breastbone. It is an important part of the immune system and is responsible for producing and maturing T cells, which are a type of white blood cell that help fight infection and disease.
The thymus gland is most active during childhood and adolescence, and its function gradually declines as we age. It is composed of two main types of cells: cortical cells and medullary cells. Cortical cells are responsible for producing and maturing T cells, while medullary cells help to remove any T cells that may be harmful or not functioning correctly.
The thymus gland is also important in the development of autoimmune disorders, which occur when the immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues. The thymus helps to educate T cells to recognize and attack only foreign substances and not the body’s own cells.
Overall, the thymus gland plays a critical role in the immune system and helps to keep us healthy and protected from disease.
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