T cells are named after the thymus, a small gland in the chest where they mature. The thymus is a vital part of the immune system, responsible for training and developing these cells into functional immune cells. T cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in defending the body against infection and disease.
After migrating to the thymus from the bone marrow, precursor cells mature into several distinct types of T cells, each with unique functions.
In summary: T cells are called T cells because they mature in the thymus.
