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T cells are critical for cell-mediated immunity and these cells are
generated in the thymus. The major sub-populations of T cells are CD4+
helper and CD8+ killer cells. Thymic atrophy, i.e. the loss in the number
of thymocytes, occurs during aging, stress and infections. Indeed, thymic
atrophy is observed upon infection with viruses, bacteria, fungi etc;
however, the reasons and consequences of thymic atrophy are not well
understood.
This talk will dwelve on aspects of thymic atrophy occuring during
infection with Salmonella Typhimurium, an intracellular bacterial
pathogen. Some of our recent work with regard to the thymocyte subsets
that are affected will be presented. Better understanding of the
processes involved in thymic atrophy may lead to the development
strategies that may boost the cellular response during infections. |