Blood–thymus barrier
The blood–thymus barrier regulates exchange of substances between the circulatory system and thymus, providing a sequestered environment for immature T cells to develop. The barrier also prevents the immature T cells from contacting foreign antigens (since contact with antigens at this stage will cause the T cells to die by apoptosis).
The barrier is formed by the continuous blood capillaries in the thymic cortex, reinforced by epithelial reticular cells and macrophages.
See also
- Blood–air barrier
- Blood–brain barrier
- Blood–ocular barrier
- Blood–retinal barrier
- Blood–testis barrier
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