Thymus

Definition

The thymus is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located behind the sternum and between the lungs. It plays a crucial role in the development of the immune system by producing T-cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The thymus is most active during childhood and shrinks after puberty.
2. It secretes hormones such as thymosin, which are important for T-cell maturation.
3. Thymic epithelial cells provide a supportive environment for T-cell development.
4. Defects in thymus function can lead to immunodeficiency diseases.
5. The thymus does not directly interact with other endocrine glands but significantly impacts immune system functionality.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of the thymus?
• Which hormone produced by the thymus assists in T-cell maturation?
• How does the size and activity of the thymus change over a person's lifetime?

Related terms

T-Cells: A type of white blood cell that plays a central role in immune response.

Thymosin: A hormone produced by the thymus that promotes T-cell development.

Immunodeficiency:

A state where the immune system's ability to fight infectious disease is compromised or entirely absent.