Thymus Hormone Thymulin Shows Potential in Reducing Age-Related Inflammation and Cancer Growth
Recent research has highlighted the potential of the thymus, a small organ located between the lungs, in regulating inflammation as we age. The study, conducted on mice, found that a hormone secreted by the thymus, known as thymulin, can significantly reduce age-related inflammation. Historically, the thymus is known for producing T cells, crucial for immune response, especially during childhood. However, its role was thought to diminish after puberty as the organ shrinks. The new findings suggest that thymulin continues to play a significant role in older age by reducing inflammation, which is often linked to various age-related diseases. The study, published in Nature Communications, indicates that thymulin could potentially improve cancer therapies and treatments for diseases associated with 'inflammaging'.