Clonal deletion is a critical process in the immune system where self-reactive T or B cells are eliminated during their development, preventing autoimmune diseases. This occurs primarily in the thymus for T cells and in the bone marrow for B cells, ensuring that only non-self-reactive immune cells mature and enter the circulation.

Clonal Deletion

Clonal deletion

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful pathogens and maintain overall health. It involves both innate and adaptive responses, which recognize and neutralize foreign invaders while also retaining memory for faster future responses.

immune system

Self-reactive T Cells

Self-reactive B cells

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. These diseases can affect almost any part of the body and are influenced by genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

autoimmune diseases

The thymus is a lymphoid organ located in the upper chest, crucial for the development and maturation of T-cells, which are essential for adaptive immunity. It is most active during childhood and gradually shrinks in adulthood, but its influence on immune function persists throughout life.

thymus

Bone marrow is a spongy tissue found in the hollow centers of certain bones, responsible for producing blood cells and storing fat. It plays a crucial role in the body's immune system and overall hematopoiesis, making it vital for maintaining health and fighting diseases.

bone marrow

non-self-reactive immune cells

T cell development is a complex process occurring primarily in the thymus, where precursor cells differentiate into various types of T cells that play crucial roles in the immune response. This process involves stages of selection to ensure self-tolerance and the generation of a diverse T cell receptor repertoire for effective pathogen recognition.

T Cell Development

B cell development is a highly regulated process that occurs primarily in the bone marrow, where progenitor cells differentiate into mature B cells capable of producing antibodies. This development involves several stages, including V(D)J recombination for antigen receptor diversity, selection processes to ensure self-tolerance, and migration to peripheral lymphoid organs for further maturation and activation.

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