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Question
- based upon the fast facts about the thymus gland, what is one reason that people are more susceptible to getting sick as they get older?
The thymus gland is critical for maturing immune cells called T-lymphocytes, which fight infections. As people age, the thymus gradually shrinks and is replaced by fatty tissue, a process called involution. This reduces the production of new, functional T-cells, weakening the immune system's ability to defend against pathogens, making older people more prone to illness.
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As people age, the thymus gland shrinks (undergoes involution) and produces fewer functional T-lymphocytes, which are essential for fighting infections, weakening the immune system and increasing susceptibility to illness.