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Multiple Choice
Which organ is the primary site for lymphocyte maturation in mammals?
A
Thymus
B
Spleen
C
Pancreas
D
Liver
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of lymphocytes: Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that play a critical role in the immune system. They include T cells and B cells, which are responsible for adaptive immunity.
Identify the process of lymphocyte maturation: T cells and B cells mature in different organs. T cells undergo maturation in a specific organ, while B cells mature in the bone marrow.
Recall the primary site for T cell maturation: The thymus is the organ where immature T cells (called thymocytes) mature and differentiate into functional T cells capable of recognizing antigens.
Eliminate incorrect options: The spleen is involved in filtering blood and immune responses but is not the site of lymphocyte maturation. The pancreas is involved in digestion and insulin production, and the liver is responsible for detoxification and metabolism, neither of which are related to lymphocyte maturation.
Conclude that the thymus is the correct answer: Based on the role of the thymus in T cell maturation, it is the primary site for lymphocyte maturation in mammals.