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Article: Thymus: Master Gland of Immunity.
- Article from:
- Original Internist
- Article date:
- June 1, 2001
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2001 Original Internist, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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The thymus is essential to the maturation of the immune system. It contributes to the development of T lymphocytes, guard cells that participate in immune system reactions. Unfortunately, the thymus atrophies with age and the production of defense cells gradually decline, potentially compromising the immune system.
Thymus: An Essential Gland of the Immune System
The thymus is essential to the maturation and maintenance of the cells of the immune system. Located medially in the anterior mediastinum, it exerts its influence by liberating hormonal factors that act inside the thymus itself as well as elsewhere in the body. Blood concentrations of these ...