Thymus transplantation as immunotherapy for the enhancement and/or correction of T cell function

The thymus is where T cells, among the most important immune cells involved in biological defense and homeostasis, are produced and developed. The thymus plays an important role in the defense against infection and cancer as well as the prevention of autoimmune diseases. However, the thymus gland atrophies with age, which might have pathological functions, and in some circumstances, there is a congenital defect in the thymus. These can be the cause of many diseases related to the dysregulation of T cell functions. Thus, the enhancement and/or normalization of thymic function may lead to protection against and treatment of a wide variety of diseases. Therefore, thymus transplantation is considered a strong candidate for permanent treatment. The status and issues related to thymus transplantation for possible immunotherapy are discussed although it is still at an early stage of development.