The thymus gland has sometimes been called the gland of youth. That is because it is at its greatest size when we are young. At birth it weighs in at 200-250 grams, and shrinks thereafter until, at around age 60, it weighs a mere three grams.

In the past, the role of the thymus gland was a mystery, a largely unexplored mystery, such that nasty and inexplicable illnesses that even caused death were given the name by physicians of "Status Thymus Lymphaticus." This as little as 45 years ago. However, as interest in aging grew, interest in the thymus gland grew as well.

Research so far suggests that the thymus has a positive effect on the immune system. The immunity from T-lymphocytes, programmed in the thymus, is of primary importance in the fight against viruses and cancer. Also, thymic hormones may affect stimulation and production of neurotransmitters, and as well, other hormones produced by both the brain and the endocrine system. All of which suggests that the thymus very likely plays a significant role in the process of aging.