thymocytes

Thymocytes are immature cells in the thymus, a small organ in your chest, that develop into T cells, a type of white blood cell crucial for your immune system. Starting from stem cells in the bone marrow, thymocytes migrate to the thymus, where they undergo a maturation process. During this time, they learn to recognize harmful invaders like bacteria and viruses, while ignoring your body's own cells. Once mature, they leave the thymus and circulate through your blood and lymphatic system, ready to defend your body against infections and diseases.