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Multiple Choice
Which hormone is secreted by the thymus gland and is important for the maturation of T cells?
A
Aldosterone
B
Cortisol
C
Insulin
D
Thymosin
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of the thymus gland in the endocrine and immune systems. The thymus gland is located in the upper chest, behind the sternum, and plays a critical role in the development and maturation of T cells, which are essential for adaptive immunity.
Step 2: Identify the hormone secreted by the thymus gland. The thymus gland produces thymosin, a hormone that is crucial for the maturation and differentiation of T cells (also known as thymocytes).
Step 3: Compare thymosin with the other hormones listed in the problem. Aldosterone, cortisol, and insulin are hormones produced by other glands (adrenal glands and pancreas) and are not involved in T cell maturation.
Step 4: Recognize the importance of thymosin in the immune system. Thymosin helps T cells develop their ability to recognize and respond to pathogens, ensuring proper immune function.
Step 5: Confirm that thymosin is the correct answer based on its specific role in T cell maturation, as opposed to the other hormones listed, which have unrelated functions.