Zinc deficiency and thymus ultrastructure in rats

The ultrastructure of the thymus was examined in young zincdeficient rats in whom alterations of immune functions were present. There was an increased number of macrophages, which contained large amounts of phagocytized material per cell. Signs of hyperactivity of epithelio-reticular cells, associated with a sharp reduction of thymocytes was observed. Thymic hormone activity was reduced. The possible correlation between zinc deficiency and changes of thymus function and structure in rats is discussed.