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Where do T cells become immunocompetent?

A. bone marrow
B. tonsils
C. thymus
D. thyroid gland

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

T cells become immunocompetent in the thymus after originating in the bone marrow and travelling through the bloodstream to the thymus for maturation.

Step-by-step explanation:

T cells become immunocompetent in the thymus. They originate as stem cells in the bone marrow, where they differentiate first into lymphoid stem cells. Then, as immature T cells, they travel through the bloodstream to the thymus organ. In the thymus, a crucial maturation process occurs where the T cells develop T cell receptors (TCRs) and undergo selection to ensure self-tolerance, preventing autoimmune responses. This maturation is essential for T cells to perform their role in the adaptive immune system effectively.

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