Podcast
Questions and Answers
Where is the thymus located?
Where is the thymus located?
Which cells mature in the thymus?
Which cells mature in the thymus?
What is the function of T cells in the immune system?
What is the function of T cells in the immune system?
What happens to the size of the thymus as a person grows older?
What happens to the size of the thymus as a person grows older?
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What are thymocytes?
What are thymocytes?
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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.
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Description
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.
