How does the thymus gland's function change as a person ages?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the changes in the thymus gland's function as a person ages. The thymus gland is responsible for the maturation of T-cells, a crucial part of the immune system. The question requires understanding how this gland changes over a person's lifespan.
Answer
The thymus shrinks with age, reducing T cell production and weakening the immune system.
As a person ages, the thymus gland decreases in size and function. After puberty, it shrinks and is replaced by fat. This process leads to reduced T cell production, weakening the immune system and increasing susceptibility to diseases.
Answer for screen readers
As a person ages, the thymus gland decreases in size and function. After puberty, it shrinks and is replaced by fat. This process leads to reduced T cell production, weakening the immune system and increasing susceptibility to diseases.
More Information
The thymus is largest during puberty. By early adulthood, the tissues in the thymus are largely replaced by fat.
Tips
The thymus produces T cells which are critical for immune function. As the thymus shrinks, the body has fewer T cells to fight off infections.
Sources
- The thymus | Canadian Cancer Society - cancer.ca
- Thymus: The Function of the Gland & Why it is Important - my.clevelandclinic.org
- Aging of thymus gland and immune system - MedCrave online - medcraveonline.com
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