The cortex of the thymus is the outer region of the thymus gland, crucial for the development and selection of T-cells, a type of lymphocyte essential for adaptive immunity. It is densely packed with immature T-cells, or thymocytes, which undergo positive and negative selection processes to ensure they can recognize foreign antigens without attacking the body's own tissues.

Cortex Of Thymus

Cortex of the thymus

The thymus gland is a vital component of the immune system, responsible for the maturation of T-cells, which are crucial for adaptive immunity. Located in the upper chest, it is most active during childhood and gradually shrinks after puberty, but its role in immune function remains significant throughout life.

Thymus Gland

Development of T-cells

Selection of T-cells

Type of lymphocyte

Adaptive immunity is a highly specialized and systemic response that develops as a result of exposure to specific antigens, providing long-lasting protection and immunological memory. It involves the activation of lymphocytes, including T cells and B cells, which recognize and remember pathogens, allowing for a more efficient and rapid response upon subsequent exposures.

Adaptive Immunity

Immature T-cells are precursors to mature T-cells, playing a crucial role in the adaptive immune system by undergoing selection processes in the thymus to ensure they can recognize foreign antigens without attacking the body's own tissues. Their development and selection are critical for immune tolerance and the prevention of autoimmune diseases.

Immature T-cells

Thymocytes are immature T cells that develop in the thymus, undergoing a process of maturation and selection that is crucial for establishing a functional and self-tolerant adaptive immune system. They undergo both positive and negative selection processes to ensure that only T cells capable of recognizing foreign antigens while ignoring self-antigens are allowed to mature and enter the peripheral circulation.

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