T Cell Development

T cell development is a crucial process in the immune system, taking place primarily in the thymus, a small organ located behind the sternum. Immature T cells, or thymocytes, originate in the bone marrow and migrate to the thymus, where they undergo maturation in a series of stages. During this process, they learn to distinguish between the body’s own cells and potential threats, such as viruses and bacteria. Successful T cells are then released into the bloodstream, where they help protect the body by identifying and attacking infected or abnormal cells, playing a key role in maintaining immune health.