What is hassall corpuscle?

Hassall corpuscles are small, spherical structures found in the thymus gland. They were first described by Arthur Hill Hassall in 1849.

Within the thymus, Hassall corpuscles are found in the medulla, the innermost region. They are composed of flattened epithelial cells that are arranged concentrically around a central cavity. The cells in the center of the cavity undergo degeneration, leading to the accumulation of keratinized material within the core of the corpuscle.

The exact function of Hassall corpuscles is unclear, but they are thought to play a role in the maturation of T-cells, which are vital for the immune system. There is also evidence that Hassall corpuscles may produce cytokines, which are important in regulating immune responses.

Hassall corpuscles are named after their discoverer, Arthur Hill Hassall, who was an English physician and microscopist.