In what organ system does the THYMUS belong to?

Question

in my book, it says the lymphatic system includes the thymus. then on wikipedia i saw in the endocrine system that it includes the thymus.

so where does it really belong to?

Answer 1

try googling it ...i m sure it will work ..dont beleive these f*g above !   lol

Answer 2

I believe it is the endocrine system.

Answer 3

Both lymthatic system and endocrine system

The thymus, a member of the lymphatic system, is located in the anterior/superior mediastinum (just above and in front of the heart). It is known to play a critical role in the seeding of the lymphatic organs (lymph nodes, diffuse lymphatic tissue, etc.) with potential "T" lymphocytes, which secrete a substance that attacks the protein of certain tumor cells, foreign cells, and micro-organisms (cellular immunity). There is evidence that the thymus produces a hormone (thymosin) that enhances the development of "T" lymphocytes. Activity of the thymus wanes significantly after puberty; it ultimately atrophies to be replaced with fibrous tissue.

Thymus hormones travel through the bloodstream and continue to exert their influence over the departed T cells. Thus, the thymus can be considered to be a true endocrine gland-- carried to another part of the body where it will have its effect. We know that the thymus continues to secrete hormones and to 'train' and export T cells until late in life. After puberty it diminishes in size because it is no longer concerned with growth.

Answer 4

Organs have many functions. Alot of these functions overlap into different body systems The thymus converts lymphocytes into T-cells so it can look at is as apart of the immune system. Online medical dictionaries see the the thymus as part of the lymphatic system because it is made up of lymphatic tissue. Many people also see it as part of the endocrine system because was wikepidia says hormones produced by this organ stimulate the production of certain infection-fighting cells. When you look at what body system a organ belongs you look at its main function. Its main function is to produce hormones that produce white blood cells, therefore in my opinion the thymus as apart of the endocrine system.

Answer 5

It is a lymphatic system organ. Hormones produced by this organ stimulate the production of certain infection-fighting cells. It is of central importance in the maturation of T cells. Recently advances in immunology have allowed the fine dissection of the function of the thymus in T cell maturation.