Optometry Admission Test (OAT) Practice

What does thymosin stimulate in the immune system?

1. Production of antibodies

2. Development of T lymphocytes

3. Regulation of hormones

4. Growth of B lymphocytes

The correct answer is: Development of T lymphocytes

Thymosin plays a crucial role in the immune system by stimulating the development and maturation of T lymphocytes (T cells). These cells are vital for the adaptive immune response, as they help in recognizing and responding to specific antigens. Thymosin is produced in the thymus gland, where it influences the differentiation of progenitor cells into mature T cells, enabling them to carry out functions such as helping other immune cells and directly targeting infected or cancerous cells. This activity is particularly significant because the effectiveness of the immune response relies heavily on the presence and proper function of T lymphocytes. While the production of antibodies, hormonal regulation, and growth of B lymphocytes are important aspects of the immune system, they are not directly stimulated by thymosin. Instead, these functions involve other proteins, cells, and regulatory mechanisms within the immune system. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes thymosin's specific role in fostering the development of T lymphocytes, which is pivotal for the overall immune response.