Chemical Coordination And Integration Flashcards
Where is the thymus gland located in the human body?
The thymus gland is a lobular structure located between the lungs, behind the sternum, on the ventral side of the aorta.
What is the primary role of the thymus gland?
The thymus gland plays a major role in the development of the immune system.
What hormones are secreted by the thymus gland?
The thymus gland secretes peptide hormones called thymosins.
What is the function of thymosins in the immune system?
Thymosins aid in the differentiation of T-lymphocytes for cell-mediated immunity and promote the production of antibodies for humoral immunity.
What happens to the thymus gland as people age?
The thymus gland degenerates in old individuals, resulting in decreased production of thymosins.
Why is the immune response weaker in elderly individuals?
The degeneration of the thymus in old age leads to reduced thymosin production, weakening immune responses.
