Thymus

Also known as:  TG;  Thymus Gland

Cells of the Thymus are known as:  Thymocytes

The Thymus is a pyramid-shaped organ of the Immune System located behind the breastbone that consists almost entirely of Lymphoid Tissue.  The Thymus weighs approximately 42 grams at adolescence.

Immune System

 Optimal functioning of the Thymus plays a major role in the prevention of Bacterial & Viral Diseases (due to the numerous Hormones produced by the Thymus that regulate Immune function).

 Optimal functioning of the Thymus is essential for the prevention of outbreaks of the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) in people who are infected with any of the Herpes Simplex Viruses:

 People who are prone to frequent recurrences of Herpes Simplex Virus outbreaks usually have impaired function of their Thymus Gland.

 The Thymus Gland receives Stem Cells (precursors to Lymphocytes) from the Bone Marrow and converts and differentiates them into the various types of T-Lymphocytes.  This conversion is under the control of various Thymic Hormones.  ^[2]

 The Thymus Gland is responsible for the production and secretion of Thymic Hormones - Thymosin and Thymulin.

Amino Acids

 Arginine (1,000 - 5,000 mg per day) may increase the size of the Thymus, may stimulate the production of Lymphocytes by the Thymus and may restore the production of Thymic Hormones to youthful levels.  ^[3]

 Aspartic Acid may increase the size of the Thymus and may enhance the function of the Thymus.  ^[4]

 Cysteine may increase the size of the Thymus.

 Ornithine may increase the size of the Thymus.  ^[5]

 Ornithine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (OKG) may inhibit the ability of excessive Stress to cause the atrophy of the Thymus gland.  ^[6]

 Threonine may facilitate the growth and activity of the Thymus. 

Carotenoids

 Beta-Carotene may enhance the function of the Thymus.  ^[7]

Hormones

 Human Growth Hormone (hGH) is essential for the correct function of the Thymus Gland and supplemental, exogenous hGH may increase the size of Thymus Glands that have atrophied (shrunk).  ^[8]