What role does the thymus play in developing allergies?

[jlmslmspi]

From what I've read the thymus is part of the endocrine system that helps protect our bodies from infection. What part does the thymus play in developing allergies? Would an over active thymus have a part in severe allergies?

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Yes, the thymus is an important part of the Immune system (and not the endocrine system). It is important for the body since the maturation of T cells take place here. These cells are responsible for the infection fighting and microorganism destroying ability of our immune system.

The Thymus is not part of the allergy response system and therefore there is less likelihood that the over active thymus may have part to play in severe allergies.

"Thymus is an organ located in the upper anterior portion of the chest cavity just behind the sternum. Hormones produced by this organ stimulate the production of certain infection-fighting cells. It is of central importance in the maturation of T cells.
In the two thymic lobes, lymphocyte precursors from the bone-marrow become thymocytes, and subsequently mature into T cells. Once mature, T cells emigrate from the thymus and constitute the peripheral T cell repertoire responsible for directing many facets of the adaptive immune system. Loss of the thymus at an early age through genetic mutation or surgical removal results in severe immunodeficiency and a high susceptibility to infection."

You may read more about the thymus at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thymus

Let me know if you may need any more help.