Why must T cell activation take place outside the thymus?
A)An activated T cell could destroy the other maturing T cells.
B)An activated T cell could then destroy the thymus gland itself.
C)Many T cells are self-reactive and must be eliminated in the thymus before any possibility of activation.
D)Other cell types might be accidentally activated in the thymus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

T cell activation must occur outside the thymus because the thymus is where self-reactive T cells are eliminated to prevent autoimmunity. Activation within the thymus could lead to the activation of self-reactive T cells, which should be eliminated before they can cause harm.

Why Must T Cell Activation Take Place Outside the Thymus