Where do precursor T cells migrate to in order to undergo specialization after being formed in the red bone marrow?

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Prepare for the Rutgers Anatomy 2 Test. Study key concepts with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question is supplemented with hints and explanations to enhance your learning. Ace your exam with confidence!

Precursor T cells, also known as thymocytes, leave the red bone marrow after their initial formation and migrate to the thymus for their development and specialization. The thymus is a specialized organ that plays a critical role in the maturation of T cells, where they undergo a series of processes essential for their development, including positive and negative selection.

In the thymus, immature T cells learn to distinguish self from non-self, which is crucial for preventing autoimmunity. They also acquire specific T cell receptors needed to recognize antigens. This environment is tailored for T cell maturation, providing the necessary signals and interactions with thymic epithelial cells and other supporting cells.

The other options do not serve as the primary site for this crucial stage of T cell development. Lymph nodes and the spleen are important for the activation and proliferation of mature T cells after they have exited the thymus, while the bone marrow is primarily responsible for the formation of blood cells, including precursor cells.

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