The Thymus

215 views
  Streamed on 02 Feb, 2026, 07:00 PM

ABOUT THIS SESSION

The thymus plays a pivotal yet often overlooked role in immune regulation, especially across different stages of life. It serves as the training ground for T-lymphocytes and influences immune tolerance, autoimmunity, and long-term immune health. In this webinar, Dr. Sanjay Kalra will unpack the evolving science of the thymus, linking its physiology to clinical practice. The session aims to bridge basic immunology with real-world insights into endocrine and metabolic processes, offering a fresh perspective for clinicians.

Q&A

The thymus is a small lymphoid and endocrine gland located in the upper chest, behind the breastbone (sternum) and in front of the heart.

The thymus is relatively large in childhood, reaches its peak around puberty, and gradually shrinks with age, eventually being replaced by fatty tissue.

Its main function is to produce and mature T-lymphocytes (T cells), which are essential for immunity and protection against infections.

Besides immune functions, the thymus secretes several peptide hormones that regulate immune responses and interact with other endocrine glands.

Key thymic hormones include thymosin, thymopoietin, thymolin, and thymic humoral factor, all of which support T-cell development and immune modulation.

TSLP helps convert immature thymocytes into activated thymocytes and supports lymphocyte maturation.

Hormones from the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and gonads influence thymus function, enhancing lymphocyte development and immune efficiency.

The thymus acts as a bridge between the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, explaining why mental and physical health strongly affect immunity.

Conditions such as thymoma, DiGeorge syndrome, and myasthenia gravis are linked to thymic abnormalities and reduced thymic hormone activity.

In early life, the thymus supports pituitary and hypothalamic development; removal of the thymus in neonates can lead to permanent growth and endocrine damage.
FACULTY
Dr. Sanjay Kalra
Dr. Sanjay Kalra
Consultant & Head,Treasurer, International Society of Endocrinology (ISE), Vice President, South Asian Obesity Forum (SOF) Bharti Hospital, Karnal, Haryana, India

Latest Archive Videos

Stress and Lifestyle : Know the Facts

Stress and Lifestyle : Know the Facts

Neonatal Endocrinology

Neonatal Endocrinology

NIPAH Outbreaks: Should We Be Worried?

NIPAH Outbreaks: Should We Be Worried?

MORE FROM PRACTICE MANAGEMENT

COVID-19: UK

COVID-19: UK

501.V2: The New Coronavirus Variant in South Africa

501.V2: The New Coronavirus Variant in South Africa

Covid-19 Brazil Experience and Expectations in 2021

Covid-19 Brazil Experience and Expectations in 2021

Logo

Medtalks is India's fastest growing Healthcare Learning and Patient Education Platform designed and developed to help doctors and other medical professionals to cater educational and training needs and to discover, discuss and learn the latest and best practices across 100+ medical specialties. Also find India Healthcare Latest Health News & Updates on the India Healthcare at Medtalks

Quick Links

Useful Links

Medbytes FAQ
About Us
Medtalks TV
Contact Us
Webinars
Privacy Policy
CMEs
Terms And Conditions
Conferences

Connect With Us