The thymus gland produces a special type of leukocyte called a(n):

• A. B lymphocyte (B cell)
• B. Neutrophil
• C. Monocyte
• D. T lymphocyte (T cell)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the thymus gland: The thymus is a specialized organ of the immune system located in the chest, behind the sternum. Its primary function is to support the development and maturation of T lymphocytes (T cells), which are critical for adaptive immunity.
2. Learn the difference between T lymphocytes and other leukocytes: T cells are distinct from B lymphocytes, neutrophils, and monocytes. B lymphocytes are produced and mature in the bone marrow, neutrophils are a type of phagocytic white blood cell involved in innate immunity, and monocytes are precursors to macrophages and dendritic cells.
3. Recognize the thymus gland's specific role: The thymus gland does not produce B lymphocytes, neutrophils, or monocytes. Instead, it is responsible for the maturation of T lymphocytes, which are derived from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow and migrate to the thymus for further development.
4. Understand the importance of T lymphocytes: T cells play a vital role in adaptive immunity by identifying and responding to specific antigens. They include helper T cells (CD4+), cytotoxic T cells (CD8+), and regulatory T cells, each with distinct functions in immune response.
5. Conclude that the thymus gland produces T lymphocytes (T cells): Based on the information above, the correct answer to the question is T lymphocyte (T cell), as this is the type of leukocyte associated with the thymus gland.