CANCER AND IMMUNE SYSTEM: THYMUS GLAND AND SPLEEN
March 30th, 2009 | Posted by admin | Category: CancerNo Comments
The Thymus Gland
The thymus is the major gland or the ‘maestro’ of the immune system. It is one of the major sites for immune cell production. It lies just below the thyroid gland and above the heart. The thymus is responsible for the production of T-lymphocytes and for providing the commands to these cells regarding which enemies to attack. The thymus gland releases several hormones that are responsible for regulating many immune functions. A low level of thymic hormones in the blood is associated with depressed immunity. Thymic hormone levels are low in people with cancer. The thymus gland tends to shrink as we age and in response to nutrient deficiencies.
The spleen is roughly the size of a clenched fist. It is responsible for producing white blood cells, engulfing and destroying bacteria and cellular debris, destroying worn-out red blood cells and platelets, for coordinating the interaction between macrophages, antibodies, T-Lymphocytes and B-Lymphocytes and acting as a blood reservoir. The spleen also releases many potent immune system-enhancing compounds.
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