5 Questions
Where is the thymus located?
Behind the sternum and in front of the heart
Which cells mature in the thymus?
T cells
What is the function of T cells in the immune system?
To recognize and kill infected cells
What happens to the size of the thymus as a person grows older?
It becomes smaller
What are thymocytes?
Immature B cells
Study Notes
Thymus and T Cells
- The thymus is located in the chest, just behind the breastbone (sternum).
- Immature cells called thymocytes mature in the thymus to become T cells (T lymphocytes).
- The function of T cells is to recognize and attack infected cells or foreign substances in the body, playing a central role in cell-mediated immunity.
- As a person grows older, the size of the thymus decreases, reducing its ability to produce new T cells.
- Thymocytes are immature cells in the thymus that mature to become T cells, which then migrate to lymph nodes, spleen, and other lymphoid organs.
Test your knowledge about the thymus, the primary lymphoid organ involved in T cell maturation and the adaptive immune system. Learn about its location, function, and importance in fighting off foreign invaders.
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