The thymus gland is located behind the upper sternum (breast bone) and in front of the heart. It is made up primarily of fatty tissue, white blood cells (lymphocytes), and stromal (epithelial) cells.

An Overview of the Thymus Gland History and Anatomy. The thymus gland is usually located behind the breastbone, in front of the heart, and between the. Function. From the time you're conceived until you reach puberty, your thymus gland is very active. It serves both the. Associated Conditions..

Thymus. The thymus gland is a bilobed organ found in the space between the sternum and the aorta of the heart (Figure 19.4. 3) that serves as a specialized structure in which T lymphocytes mature. The thymus is most active early in life as you are exposed to and build immunity to many pathogens.

Your thymus produces and releases several hormones including: Thymopoietin: fuels the production of T-cells and tells the pituitary gland to release hormones. Thymosin and thymulin: help make specialized types of T-cells. Thymic humoral factor: keeps your immune system working properly. During what age is the thymus gland most active?