The Thymus is a forgotten, but very important organ linked with immune health and longevity.
Thymus involution (aka atrophy) alters immunity and impacts repair processes associated with aging.
Accelerated aging (involution) is linked with reduced life expectancy and higher prevalence of age-related diseases.
This brief video goes into the some more details.
Thymus involution alters immunity and impacts repair processes associated with aging. Accelerated aging (involution) is linked with reduced life expectancy and higher prevalence of age-related diseases.
Thymic involution is linked with increased inflammation and the accumulation of altered T cell (T lymphocytes). Overtime, this can create imbalances in the body’s ability to repair and accumulation of more senescent cells.
REF: Elyahu, Y., & Monsonego, A. (2021). Thymus involution sets the clock of the aging T-cell landscape: Implications for declined immunity and tissue repair. Ageing Research Reviews, 65, 101231.
Weight gain may accelerate thymic aging, reducing repair and altering immune health, scientists say.
Biopsies of overweight animals suggests fat deposits in thymus (ectopically) altering it's function.
REF: Yang, H., Youm, Y.-H., Vandanmagsar, B., Rood, J., Kumar, K. G., Butler, A. A., & Dixit, V. D. (2009). Obesity accelerates thymic aging. Blood, 114(18), 3803–3812.