Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

16. The Endocrine System

Introduction to the Endocrine System

Anatomy & Physiology

16. The Endocrine System

Introduction to the Endocrine System

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Multiple Choice

What happens to the thymus after puberty?

It gradually decreases in size and becomes replaced by fat.

It remains the same size and function throughout life.

It is immediately removed from the body.

It increases in size and activity.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of the thymus: The thymus is a lymphoid organ located in the chest, behind the sternum. It plays a critical role in the development and maturation of T-lymphocytes (T-cells), which are essential for adaptive immunity.

Recognize the changes in the thymus over time: The thymus is most active during childhood and adolescence, supporting the immune system's development. After puberty, its activity decreases as the immune system matures.

Learn about involution: After puberty, the thymus undergoes a process called involution, where its functional tissue gradually decreases in size and is replaced by adipose (fat) tissue. This is a normal physiological change.

Clarify misconceptions: The thymus does not remain the same size and function throughout life, nor is it immediately removed from the body. It also does not increase in size and activity after puberty.

Conclude the correct answer: The correct answer is that the thymus gradually decreases in size and becomes replaced by fat after puberty, reflecting its reduced role in immune function as the body matures.