The Thymus Gland: Experimental and Clinical Studies of Its Role in the Development and Expression of Immune Functions

The effect of zinc deficiency on the ultrastructure of rat adrenal cortex

“…Various investigators have reported adrenal hypertrophy in zinc-deficient rats (Apgar, 1972;Quarterman, 1972;O'Dell et al, 1977) and in control rats given ACTH (Goldstein and White, 1971). Apgar reported that there is an increase in weight and a decrease in cholesterol in the adrenals of zinc-deficient pregnant rats.…”

“…There is an increase in cholesterol and 1 1-hydroxycorticosteroids in the adrends of zinc-deficient rats (Quarterman and Humphries, 1979). ACTH is believed to be the only substance known to cause adrenal hypertrophy directly (Goldstein and White, 1971), and an increase in ACTH is suggested to account for adrenal hypertrophy brought about by magnesium deficiency (Ellin et al, 1970).…”

Mechanisms of Immune Defence

“…This virus replicates within T lymphocytes and, in common with many viral and other agents, results in profound suppression of cellular immune responses (Peterson et al, 1964). Extracts of thymus also contain immunosuppressive (Y globulin, a glycopeptide acting synergistically with growth hormone, calcitonin-like activity, and factors producing muscular and neuromuscular effects (Goldstein and White, 1971).…”

Appearance of T-cell Markers in Bone Marrow Rosette-Forming Cells after Incubation with Thymosin, a Thymic Hormone

“…Of further significance are the observations that thymosin may play a role, both in vivo and in vitro, in the ontogenesis and maturation of immunologically-competent lymphoid cells (10,11). An hypothesis has been suggested recently that integrates both of the proposed cellular and hormonal roles of the thymus (10,12).…”