Vitamins and Minerals Notes from the late C.B. Burgstiner found on webpage: www.thymic.com Vitamin A (Beta Carotene) - Vitamin A plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of the epithelial and mucosal surfaces and their secretions, stimulates and enhances numerous processes, including induction of cell-mediated immunity against tumors, natural-killer cell activity, monocyte phagocytosis and antibody response. Vitamin A prevents and reverses stress-induced thymic involution and can actually promote thymus growth. It is also a necessary nutrient for the thymus gland. Beta Carotene is a non-toxic vegetable pigment which the body will only convert to vitamin A as it is required. Beta Carotene has been shown to potentuate Interferon's stimulatory action on the immune system and, as antioxidants, protect the thymus gland from free radical and oxidative damage. Vitamin A is active as an antioxidant. It's involved in protein synthesis, bone growth, healthy skin, and sexual functioning and reproduction. Vitamin A has been used in the treatment of infectious diseases, stress-induced diseases, impaired sense of smell, bleeding gums, hearing loss, night blindness, respiratory infections, and as a protectant against environmental pollutants. It has a cancer role on the cellular level. Vitamin D (Colecalciferol) - Vitamin D has a major role in bone health and growth, is a calcium metabolism regulator, enhances nerve health and helps regulate heart beats. It's used in the therapeutic treatment of rickets, osteomalasia, osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis, and combats the harmful effects of steroid therapy. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid, buffered and esterified) - The primary function of Vitamin C is the manufacture of collagen, the main protein substance of the human body. Since collagen is such an important protein for the structures that hold our bodies together (connective tissues, cartilage, tendons, etc.), Vitamin C is vital for wound repair, healthy gums and the prevention of easy bruising. In addition to its role in collagen metabolism, Vitamin C is critical to immune function and it is a very important nutritional antioxidant. Vitamin C intake benefits the body in numerous ways, including reducing cancer rates, boosting immunity, protecting against pollution and cigarette smoke, enhancing wound repair, increasing life expectancy and reducing the risk of cataracts. Studies show that Vitamin C elevates HDL cholesterol levels and reduces high blood pressure. The epidemiological evidence of the protective effects of Vitamin C against cancer is undeniable. A high Vitamin C intake reduces the risk for virtually all forms of cancer, including cancer of the lung, colon, breast, cervix, esophagus, oral cavity and pancreas. The classic symptom of Vitamin C deficiency is scurvy, with bleeding gums, poor wound healing, extensive bruising, no resistance to infection, hysteria and depression. Vitamin C was identified and isolated by Albert Szent-Gyorgyi in 1928; however, in 1742, James Lynn began giving citrus fruits to crews on long voyages to prevent scurvy. Vitamin E (d-Alpha tocopherol succinate) - Vitamin E is important to immune function. It protects the thymus gland and circulating white blood cells from damage. Vitamin E is particularly important in protecting the immune system from damage during times of oxidative stress and chronic viral illnesses such as AIDS and chronic viral hepatitis. Vitamin E is the premiere "lipid phase" antioxidant in the body. It actually incorporates into the fatty portion of cell membranes and carrier molecules, where it stabilizes and protects the structures from toxic compounds. The principle use of Vitamin E is as an antioxidant in the protection against heart disease, cancer and strokes - the three leading killers of Americans. Vitamin E supplementation has also been found to be useful in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, fibrocystic breast disease, menopausal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia. It has also been found helpful in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease, premature rupture of the membranes in pregnancy and arthritis. Vitamin E is a great aid in wound healing and particularly in the prevention of scar formation, when used on the skin. Vitamin E was first discovered in 1922. It was called the anti-sterility vitamin (tocopherol literally means "to bear children"). Symptoms of Vitamin E deficiency in adults include nerve damage, muscular weakness, poor coordination, involuntary movement of the eyes, breaking of red blood cells leading to hemolytic anemia, and premature imperence deficiencies characterized by hemolytic anemia and a severe eye disorder known as retrolental fibroplasia. Folic Acid - Folic acid's major activity in the body is in red blood cell formation and in RNA-DNA synthesis. It is used in the treatment of toxemia of pregnancy, premature birth, megaloblastic anemia and birth defects. It strengthens immunity and enhances wound healing, improves mental illness and has a much greater demand during pregnancy. Vitamin B-1 (Thiamine Mononitrate) - Thiamine was the first B vitamin discovered, hence it has the designation B-1. Severe Thiamine deficiency causes a syndrome known as beriberi. Symptoms include mental confusion, muscle wasting, fluid retention, high blood pressure, difficulty walking and heart disturbances. A Dutch physician, Christian Eijkman, began the classic experiments in the 1890s to clarify the role of diet and beriberi. In Java in 1926, two Dutch scientists, Jansen and Donath, isolated Thiamine, the true anti-beriberi vitamin. Thiamine deficiency is common in alcoholics. Further symptoms are fatigue, depression, pins-and-needles sensation, numbness of the legs and constipation. In alcoholics, the combination of Thiamine deficiency and alcohol can produce Wernicke- Korsakoff Syndrome, a serious brain disorder. The principal use of Thiamine is in the treatment of diabetes, Crohn's Disease, multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases; to prevent and treat impaired mental function in the elderly, Alzheimer's patients and epileptics. Thiamine is essential for proper energy production in the brain. Deficiencies are characterized by impaired mental function and muscle atrophy. Thiamine potentuates and mimics the effect of acetylcholine in the brain, improves mental function and senility. Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin) - It's major involvement in the body is in protein metabolism, lipid metabolism, and has effects on the skin, liver and eye health. It is used in the treatment of conjunctivitis, cataracts, lip and mouth cracks, skin lesions, anemia, personality disturbances, fatigue, stress and alcoholism; and has been shown to prevent birth defects. Vitamin B-3 (Niacinamide) - Niacinamide plays a major part in carbohydrate metabolism and increasing the effectiveness of the circulatory system. It's effective in the treatment of skin rashes and dermatitis, diarrhea and dementia; it reduces blood cholesterol and increases circulation. It is effective with stress, weakness, irritability, mental fatigue, abdominal pains, insomnia and alcoholism Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) - Vitamin B-6's major activity in the body is as an enzyme activator, carbohydrate metabolism, fat metabolism, protein metabolism, hormone production (particularly in regards to adrenaline and insulin), important in the synthesis of RNA and DNA, and antibody production. B-6 has been used in the treatment of cancer, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, kidney stones, anemia, acne, tooth decay, rheumatism, asthma, schizophrenia, leg cramps, nausea, nervous system, carpal tunnel syndrome and vomiting associated with pregnancy, depression, PMS and menopausal symptoms. Vitamin B-6 deficiency results in depressed immunity noted by a reduction in the quality and quantity of antibodies produced, shrinkage of lymphatic tissues, including the thymus gland, decreased thymic hormonal activity, and a reduction in the number and activity of lymphocytes. Vitamin B-12 (Cyanocobalamin ) - B-12's major activity in the body is red blood cell formation. It helps stimulate a healthy nervous system, is needed for normal growth, important in the synthesis of RNA and DNA, important in carbohydrate metabolism, fertility and needed during pregnancy. It's used in the treatment of pernicious anemia and nervous disorders. It's a growth promoter that strengthens the immune system and aids in the treatment of mental illness. Biotin - Biotin's major activity is in protein metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and unsaturated fatty acid metabolism. It's needed for normal growth, maintenance of the skin, hair, nerves, sex glands, bone marrow and sebaceous glands. It's used in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis, gastro-intestinal symptoms with poor appetite, nausea and leg cramps. Pantothenic Acid (Calcium Pantothenate) -(B-5) Pantothenic Acid, found in human muscle, is effective in adrenal gland function, immune system stimulation of antibody production, and improves gastro-intestinal tract functioning. It's useful in the treatment of muscle cramps, fatigue, lowered resistance to infection, appetite loss, constipation, stress and arthritis, and protects against radiation injury. Calcium (Carbonate) - Calcium is vital for the formation of strong bones and teeth and for maintenance of healthy gums; is important in the maintenance of a regular heartbeat and transmission of nerve impulses. Calcium lowers cholesterol levels and helps prevent cardiovascular disease. It's needed for muscle growth and contraction and for the prevention of muscle cramps. It may increase the rate of bone growth and bone-mineral density in children. It's also essential in blood clotting and helps prevent cancer. Lowers blood pressure and prevents bone loss associated with osteoporosis. Calcium provides energy and participates in the protein structuring of RNA and DNA. Calcium is also involved in the activation of several enzymes, including lipase, which breaks down fats for utilization by the body. Calcium maintains proper cell membrane permeability, aids in neuromuscular activity, helps to keep the skin healthy and protects against the development of preeclampsia during pregnancy, the No. 1 cause of maternal death. Calcium protects the bones and teeth from lead by inhibiting the absorption of this toxic metal. Iodine (Kelp) - Iodine is a trace element required in the manufacture of thyroid hormone. Specifically, the thyroid gland adds iodine to the amino acid tyrosine to create the thyroid hormones. The beneficial facts: Iodine's principal role is the manufacture of thyroid hormones and it seems to modulate the effects of estrogen on breast tissue. Deficiency of iodine results in goiter, cretinism, intellectual disability, growth retardation, hypothyroidism and increased infant mortality. Magnesium (Gluconate) - Magnesium is a vital catalyst in enzyme activity, especially the activity of enzymes involved in energy production. It assists in calcium and potassium uptake. A deficiency of magnesium interferes with the transmission of nerve and muscle impulses, causing irritability and nervousness. Supplementing the diet with magnesium can help prevent depression, dizziness, muscle weakness, twitching and premenstrual tension. It also aids in maintaining the body's proper pH balance. Magnesium protects the arterial linings from stress caused by sudden blood pressure changes, plays a role in the formation of bone and carbohydrate and mineral metabolism. Copper (Proteinate/Gluconate) - Copper is an essential trace mineral involved in several key enzymatic reactions in the human body. Deficiency results in iron deficiency anemia and is also associated with poor collagen integrity. This collagen integrity problem manifests itself in the rupture of blood vessels, osteoporosis and bone and joint abnormalities. We also see brain disturbances, increased lipid peroxidation, elevated LDL cholesterol and reduced HDL cholesterol levels, also impaired immune function. Copper is used principally in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and the treatment of arthritis. Zinc (Proteinate) - Zinc is vital in every body cell and a component of more than 200 enzymes. Zinc functions in more enzymatic reactions than any other mineral. It's necessary for the proper action of many hormones, including thymic hormones, insulin, growth hormones and sex hormones. Zinc deficiency is characterized by skin changes, diarrhea, hair loss, mental disturbances, recurrent infections and impaired immune function. Zinc deficiency is reflected by poor wound healing, decreased sense of taste or smell, acne, eczema, psoriasis, decreased ability to see at night, growth retardation, testicular atrophy, mouth ulcers, a white coating on the tongue and marked halitosis. The beneficial effects of Zinc are extensive because it's involved in so many enzyme and body functions. It supports the functions of T-cells and B-cells. The principal uses are in pregnancy, immune function, male sexual function, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory conditions, acne, macular degeneration and Alzheimer's Disease. Zinc, like Vitamin C, possesses direct antiviral activity and is particularly effective against the common cold. Selenium (Proteinate/Gluconate) - The trace mineral Selenium functions primarily as a component of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which works with Vitamin E in preventing free radical damage to cell membranes. A deficiency of Selenium is associated with increased risk of cancer, heart disease and low immune function. Selenium's chief beneficial effect appears to be its role as an antioxidant. It assumes a critical control in protecting against free radical and oxidative damage. A large body of scientific evidence clearly demonstrates that Selenium decreases cancer mortality. Selenium supplementation results in augmentation and restoration of immune function, primarily by stimulating white blood cell and thymus function. Selenium increases the immune-enhancing compound Interleukin 2. Selenium supplementation offers increased protection against heart disease and strokes and is essential for proper fetal growth and development. It helps prevent the formation of tumors. Selenium and Vitamin E acts synergistically to aid in the production of antibodies and to help maintain a healthy heart and liver. This trace element is needed for pancreatic function and tissue elasticity. Selenium supplementation has been found to protect the liver in people with alcoholic cirrhosis Potassium - This mineral is important for a healthy nervous system and a regular heart rhythm. It helps to prevent stroke, aids in proper muscle contraction and works with sodium to control the body's water balance. It is important for chemical reactions within cells and aids maintaining stable blood pressure and transmitting electro-chemical impulses. Also regulates the transfer of nutrients through cell membranes. Potassium has been shown to decrease with age and may account for some of the circulatory damage, lethargy and weakness experienced by older people. Manganese - Minute quantities of manganese are needed for protein and fat metabolism, healthy nerves, a healthy immune system and blood sugar regulation. Manganese is used in energy production and is required for normal bone growth and for reproduction. It's also used in the formation of cartilage and synovial (lubricating) fluid of the joints, and is necessary for the synthesis of bone. Manganese aids in the formation of mother's milk and is a key element in the production of enzymes needed to oxidize fats and metabolize purines Chromium (Picolinate) - Because it is involved in the metabolism of glucose, chromium is needed for energy. It is also vital in the synthesis of cholesterol, fats and protein. This essential mineral maintains stable blood sugar levels through proper insulin utilization and can be helpful both for people with diabetes and hypoglycemia. Low plasma chromium levels are usually associated with coronary artery disease. The average American diet is chromium-deficient. Researchers estimate that two out of every three Americans are hypoglycemic, pre-hypoglycemic or diabetic. The ability to maintain normal blood sugar levels is jeopardized by the lack of chromium in our soil and water supply and by a diet high in refined sugar, white flour and junk foods. Deficiencies in chromium can lead to anxiety, fatigue and glucose intolerance, inadequate metabolism of amino acids and an increased risk of atherosclerosis. It is best absorbed in the body in the form called Chromium Picolinate. Chromium Picolinate has been used successfully to control blood cholesterol and blood glucose levels, promotes the loss of fat and increases lean muscle tissue Boron - Boron is needed in trace amounts for healthy bones and for the metabolism of calcium phosphorus and magnesium. It also enhances brain function and promotes alertness. Boron helps prevent osteoporosis and aids in the buildup of muscle. Herbs, Digestive Enzymes and Other Essential Ingredients Rutin, Hesperidin and Citrus Bioflavonoids - These all have the same type effects and have been referred to as nature's "biological response modifiers" because of their ability to modify the body's reaction to other compounds such as allergens, viruses and carcinogens. This is evidenced by their anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-viral and anti-carcinogenic properties. In addition, flavonoids act as powerful antioxidants by providing remarkable protection against oxidative and free radical damage. The antioxidant activity in flavonoids is generally more potent and exerts a broader range of activity than antioxidant nutrients, such as vitamins C and E, sodium and zinc. Flavonoids have a wide range of pharmaceutical activity, which includes an ability to increase intracellular Vitamin C levels, decrease capillary permeability and fragility, scavenge oxidants and free radicals and inhibit destruction of collagen. Collagen, the most abundant protein of the body, is responsible for maintaining the integrity of the tendons, ligaments and cartilage. Collagen is also the support structure of the skin and blood vessels. Flavonoids have the remarkable ability to support collagen structures and prevent collagen destruction. They have the unique ability to cross-link collagen fibers, resulting in reinforcement of the natural cross-linking of collagen that forms the so-called collagen matrix of connecting tissue. They can prevent free radical damage with their potent antioxidant and free radical scavenging action. Further, they inhibit enzymatic cleavage of collagen by enzymes secreted by leukocytes during inflammation and microbes during infection. Their extracts prevent the release and synthesis of compounds that promote inflammation and allergies, such as histamine, serum protease, type 2 prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Inositol - It's found in high concentrations in the human brain, stomach, kidney, spleen and liver. It is used to help control cholesterol level, has an inhibitory effect on cancer, is used with Vitamin E to treat nerve damage and muscular dystrophy. Choline - It's major role in the body is that of stimulating the nervous system functions. It's the essential ingredient of the nerve fluid, acetylcholine. It has a positive effect on liver function, immunity build up. mental function, concentration and memory. Choline has been used in the treatment of cardiac arrest, kidney dysfunction, hypertension and liver dysfunction. Octacosanol - Octacosanol is a naturally derived wheat-germ oil concentrate. Wheat germ has long been known for its many benefits. Octacosanol has been clinically proven to increase oxygen utilization during exercise and improve glycogen storage in muscle. It increases physical endurance, improves reaction time, reduces high altitude stress and aids in tissue oxygenation. It can greatly benefit those who experience muscle pain after exercise or who have lowered endurance levels. It is good for muscular dystrophy and neuromuscular disorders as well. It does help reduce blood cholesterol levels. Vitamin B-4, Para Amino Benzoic Acid (PABA) - PABA's major activity in the body is that of a co-enzyme in the metabolism of protein. It assists in blood cell formation, stimulates intestinal bacteria to produce folic acid, and improves the utilization of pantothenic acid. It is used in the treatment of digestive disorders, nervousness and depression. It helps prevent sunburn by acting as a sunscreen, and is a possible preventive for skin cancer. Trypsin - Trypsin is a protease, which is secreted by the pancreas and functions in digestion by breaking down protein molecules into single amino acids. Bromelain - Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme found in pineapple. It reduces inflammation and swelling. Papain - Papain, a protein-digesting enzyme isolated from unripe papaya fruit, is a good digestive aid that also helps to digest wheat gluten. Echinacea Angustifolia Root Extract - This herb has been shown to have significant amino- enhancing activity. Its major component, enulin, is an activator of the alternative complement pathway. This pathway is responsible for increasing non-specific host defense mechanisms, like neutralization of viruses, destruction of bacteria and increasing the migration of white blood cells to areas of infection. The herb has an antibiotic and anti- cancer effect. The components responsible for the effects are polycycrides that are able to bind to carbohydrate receptors on the cell surface of T-lymphocytes of the white blood cells. This binding results in non-specific T-cell activation, including increased production of Interferon. The result of the fact is enhanced T-cell mitogenesis (reproduction), macrophage phagocytosis (the engulfment and destruction of bacteria or viruses), antibody binding, natural killer-cell activity, and increased levels of circulating neutrophils (white blood cells primarily responsible for defense against bacteria). Hydrastis Canadensis (Golden Seal Root Extract) - This herb, native to Eastern North America, has documented antibiotic activity against staph, strep, clamydia, diphtheria, salmonella, and candida albicans. Golden seal has the ability to increase the blood supply to the spleen and the release of amino-potentuating compounds. It is a potent activator of macrophages, which are responsible for engulfing and destroying bacteria, viruses, fungi and tumor cells. L-Lysine - Lysine is an essential amino acid that is a necessary building block for all protein. It's needed for proper growth and bone development in children; it helps calcium absorption and maintains a proper nitrogen balance in adults. This amino acid aids in the production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes and helps in collagen formation and tissue repair. Because it helps to build muscle protein, it's good for those recovering from surgery and sports injuries. It also lowers serum triglyceride levels. Another useful ability of this amino acid is its capacity for fighting cold sores and herpes viruses. Lysine is an essential amino acid that cannot be manufactured by the body; therefore it's very important that it be taken in. nutritional supplements. Amino Acid Complex - Amino acids are the building blocks of all proteins. Protein is essential for growth and development, provides the body with energy, and is needed for the manufacture of hormones, antibodies, enzymes and tissues. It also helps to maintain the proper acid-alkali balance in the body. Amino acid complex is important because, when the body makes a protein (when it builds muscle, for instance) it needs a variety of amino acids for the protein-making process. THYMIC FACTORS & GLANDULAR INGREDIENTS Thymus - The thymus is the major gland of our immune system. Thymus gland is large in infants and slowly decreases in size with age, generally in the early 20s. It is composed of two small, pinkish-gray lobes just below the thyroid gland and above the heart and behind the sternum. The health of the thymus gland determines the health of the immune system. The thymus is responsible for many immune system functions, including production of key lipocytes, a type of white blood cell responsible for "cell-mediated immunity" (Cell- mediated immunity refers to immune mechanisms not controlled or mediated by antibodies.) It is extremely important in the resistance to infection by mold-like bacteria, yeast - including candida albicans - fungi, parasites and viruses, including herpes simplex, Epstein-Barr, hepatitis B and C. If an individual suffers from an infection caused by these organisms, usually their cell-mediated immunity is not functioning or up to par. Mediated immunity is critical for protection against the development of cancer, autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and allergies. Thymus Enzymatic Polypeptide Fractions - The thymus releases several hormones, such as Thymosin, Thymopoietin and Thymic Humoral Factor (THF), that regulate many immune functions. Typically, thymic hormonal levels are very low in the elderly and people with infection, cancer, AIDS, and those exposed to undue stress. Promoting optimal thymus gland activity involves an adequate dietary intake of antioxidant nutrients, such as carotenes, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, zinc and selenium to prevent thymic involution or shrinkage; use of nutrients (zinc, Vitamin B-6, Vitamin C) that are required in the manufacture or action of the thymic hormones and use of products containing concentrates of calf thymus tissue. A substantial amount of clinical data now supports the effectiveness of orally administered thymus extracts. Predigested calf thymus extract, rich in thymus- derived polypeptides, is effective in the prevention of recurrent respiratory infections in children and adults and the correction of T-cell defects in human immuno-deficiency virus (AIDS), treatment of acute hepatitis B infections, restoration of the number of peripheral leukocytes in cancer patients with chemotherapy-induced depression of their white blood cell counts, and treatment of allergies, including asthma, hay fever and food allergies. Recurrent or chronic infections, including so-called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and chronic post-viral syndrome are characterized by depressed immune systems. Thymus extracts seem to provide an answer to chronic infections by restoring the healthy immune function. Double-blind studies reveal that orally administered thymus extracts are not only able to effectively eliminate infection, but that treatment over the course of a year significantly reduces the number of infections and improves numerous immune parameters. One of the most difficult viral infections for the body to throw off is Type B Viral Hepatitis. However, several double-blind studies indicate thymus extracts can be effective in both acute and chronic cases. Therapeutic effect was noted by accelerated decreases of liver enzymes (transamelases), elimination of the virus, and antibody changes signifying clinical remission. Double-blind clinical studies indicate the oral administration of thymus extracts can improve the symptoms of hay fever, allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema and food allergies. Presumably, this clinical improvement is caused by the restoration of proper immune function - i.e. reduced levels of IgE and the eosinophils and improved ratio of helper-to-suppressor T-cells. In several double-blind studies, children receiving thymus extracts during food allergy elimination diets often can tolerate foods previously allergic and symptom-producing. Auto-immune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis are characterized by the body's own antibodies attacking body tissues. Central to this auto- immunity is a high T-cell helper-to-suppressor cell ratio, which results in increased antibody formation. In one clinical study, rheumatoid arthritis patients with a helper-to- suppressor ratio of 3.30 achieved normal ratios (1.02 to 2.46) after three months of therapy with thymus extract. Thymus can be useful in restoring proper immune function in auto- immune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and scleraderma. The thymus gland secretes a hormone that matures the lymphocytes to protect the body against infection and disease. All mature T-lymphocytes must reside in the thymus gland for some period of time for maturation. These lymphocytes eventually become either CD-4 cells or CD-8 cells during the maturation period. Only the thymocytes that express CD-4 or CD-8 characteristics have the capability to migrate by way of the thymus gland to the lymphatics. This differentiation process results in mature lymphocytes that can recognize foreign bodies, viruses or cancerous cells. Thus CD-4 cells (called T-helper cells) are so-called because they help the immune system by recognizing foreign substances on contact; whereas CD-8 cells (called T-suppressor/cytotoxic cells) are so-named because they require histocompatible expression on target cells for activation. (Toxic secretions kill the other cells.) Studies have identified at least six types of thymic cells. These particular cells produce Interleuken 1 (IL-1), Interleuken 4 (IL-4), Interleuken 6 (IL-6), Thymosin and Thymopoietin. These hormones that are secreted by the thymus gland are found to have an effect on T-lymphocyte differentiation and activation. Of these thymic hormones, Thymosin, Thymopoietin and Thymic Humoral Factor (or THF) may be secreted into the circulation and act upon the lymphocytes and tissues at various sites throughout the body. These hormones conduct both intrathymic activities as well as acting upon lymphocytes and tissues in other parts of the human body. There is an interactive regulatory pathway between the thymus gland and the other endocrine structures. The age-related deterioration of learning and memory abilities has also been linked to the atrophy and deterioration of the thymus gland. Congenital (from birth) absence of the thymus gland is associated with alterations of the pituitary gland, adrenal gland, thyroid and ovaries. Anti-thyroid drugs that induce hypothyroidism also cause marked atrophy of the thymus gland. When levels of the thyroid hormone thyroxin were reduced following anti-thyroid drug medication treatment, the thymocyte population in the thymus gland was markedly reduced. Conversely, T-3 (another type of thyroid hormone) administration in mice produced multiple facilitated effects on thymus function, including increased weight and cell population as well as enhanced thymocyte production. Removal of the pituitary gland resulted in a 50-percent reduction in both thymic gland weight and the concentration of thymic hormone within 30 days after surgery. Thymosin (TF) - Thymosin is a group of low-molecular-weight proteins extracted from bovine (cow) thymus. Thymosins display potent stimulatory effects on T-lymphocyte- mediated immunity. It increased lymphocyte activity and enhanced Interleukin-6 (a protein made by the lymphocyte) production in spleen cells, Thymosin-stimulating glutenizing hormone and gonadatrophin-releasing hormone (both pituitary hormones) in studies of pituitary tissues. Studies show that the release of prolactin (also a pituitary hormone), human growth hormone, and adrenal-corticotrophin (ACTH) are increased by thymosin studies. The glutenizing hormone was not increased by thymosin in vitro. Thymic Humoral Factor (THF) - Thymic Humoral Factor is an extract of calves' thymus. Interleuken-2 (a protein made by lymphocytes) and spleen cell cultures were also enhanced by the THF. Peripheral blood obtained from patients in chronic Hepatitis B and viral infections increased production of Interleuken-2 in response to Thymic Humoral Factor. This suggests a possible anti-viral road for the thymic hormone. Thymopoietin - Thymopoietin is a protein isolated from bovine (cow) thymus gland. Raw Spleen (spray/freeze-dried) - The spleen is a fist-sized, spongy, dark purple organ that lies in the upper-left abdomen behind the lower ribs. Weighing approximately 7 ounces, the spleen is the largest mass of lymphatic tissue in the body. The spleen's functions include producing white blood cells, engulfing and destroying bacteria and cellular debris, and destroying worn-out red blood cells and platelets. The spleen also serves as a blood reservoir. The spleen performs vital and essential functions in the reticuloendothelium system, a portion of the immune system responsible for filtering the blood and signaling other arms of the immune system. Orally administered bovine spleen increases white blood cell counts and enhances general immune function by producing potent immuno-stimulants tuftsin and splenopentin. These both exert profound immune-enhancing activity. Tuftsin stimulates specialized white blood cells known as macrophages, which actually are a type of white blood cell (monocyte) that resides in specific tissues such as the liver, spleen and lymph nodes. These large cells engulf and destroy foreign particles, including bacteria, cancer cells and cellular debris. Macrophages are essential in protecting against invasion by microorganisms and cancer cells. Tuftsin also helps mobilize other white blood cells to fight against infection and cancer. Splenopentin, like Tuftsin, also demonstrates significant immune-enhancing effects, by enhancing the immune system's response to regulating compounds known as "colony-stimulating factors," which stimulate white blood cells. Splenopentin also can enhance "natural killer" cell activity. Natural killer cells receive their name because of their ability to destroy cells that have become cancerous of infected with viruses. They are the body's first line of defense against cancer development. Hyposplenia refers to low spleen function. Conditions associated with functional hyposplenia include celiac disease, dermatitis herpetaformis, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, glomerulonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosis, vasculitis, thrombocytopenia. In addition, Tuftsin levels are quite low in AIDS patients and are linked to an increased risk of bacterial infection in AIDS patients. All these diseases, including AIDS, share a common feature - increased levels of circulating immune complexes. Of course, since one of the primary functions of the reticuloendothelium system is to eliminate immune complexes from circulation, we can assume the reticuloendothelium function in patients with these diseases is below normal. This assumption has been proven in those conditions. Clinical remission is always associated with normalization of reticuloendothelium system (spleen) function Raw Lymph - The lymphatic system is a major component of immunity. This is a system of organs including the spleen, the thymus, the tonsils and the lymph nodes. A fluid called lymphs circulates through the lymphatic systems in the body and bathes the body's cells. The lymphatic system provides a kind of continuous cleansing that operates at the cellular level. It is through the lymphatic system that fluid from the spaces between cells is drained, taking with it waste products, toxins and other debris from the tissues. Lymph flows through the lymph nodes, where the macrophages filter out the undesirables and from it their return to the venous circulation. Raw Bone Marrow - The bone marrow has the responsibility of producing all of the cells in the body. It produces, of course, red blood cells, and different types and categories of white blood cells. These include granulocytes, of which there are three types: 1) neutrophils, the most abundant type of white blood cell whose function is to ingest and destroy microorganisms such as bacteria; 2) eosinophils, which ingest and destroy antigen- antibody combinations (formed when antibodies intercept antigens) and also moderate hypersensitive (allergic) reactions by secreting an enzyme that breaks down histamine. High levels of eosinophils in the blood are often present in individuals with allergic disorders, presumably because the body is attempting to tame the allergic reaction. 3) Basophils, which secrete compounds such as heparin or histamine in response to contact with antigens. Another category of white blood cells are the lymphocytes, of which there are also three important types:. 1) T-cells, which undergo maturation in the thymus gland and play a major role in cell-mediated immunity; 2) B-cells, which mature in the bone marrow and are responsible for the production of antibodies; and 3) NK (or "natural killer") cells, destroy body cells that have become infected or become cancerous. Another type of white blood cells are the monocytes. The largest cells in the body, monocytes act as the garbage collectors of the body. They engulf and digest foreign materials as well as damaged or aging cells, including tumor cells. After spending about 24 hours circulating in the bloodstream, most monocytes enter the tissues and perform similar functions there. At this point, they are known as macrophages. Raw Pituitary - The pituitary gland has long been known as the master gland of the body. It stimulates all other endocrine glands in the system. Bibliography Journal of the American Medical Association, Dec.25, 1996, Selenium Supplementation Larry Clark, Ph.D.; American Heart Association (AHA) , Lancet, March 22, 1996, Vitamin E Supplements Cazzola P, Mazzanti P and Bossi G, "In vivo Modulating Effect of a Calf Thymus Acid Lystae on Human T Lymphocyte Subsets and CD4+/CD8+ Ratio in the Course of Different Diseases," Curr Ther Res, 42: 1011-1017, 1987. Fiocchi,A., Borella,E.,et al. "A double-blind clinical trial for the evaluation of the therapeutical effectiveness of a calf thymus derivative (Thymomodulin) in children with recurrent respiratory infections," Thymus, *: 831-39, 1986. Galli M, et al., Attempt to treat acute type B hepatitis with an orally administered thymic extract (Thymomodulin): Preliminary results. Drugs Exp Clin Res 11, 665-669, 1985. Cavagni G, et al., Food Allergy in children: An attempt to improve the effects of the elimination diet with an immunonomodulating agent (thymomodulin): A double-blind clinical trial. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxical 11, 131-142, 1989. Valesini, G., Barnaba,V., et al. "A calf thymus acid lystate improves clinical symptoms and T-cell defects in the early stages of HIV infection: Second Report, "Eur Journal of Cabncer Clin Onc, 23: 1915-19, 1987 Tortora, G. and Nicholas P. Anagnostakos, Principles of Anatomy and Physiology (5th Edition). Harper & Row Publishers, 1987, New York. pg. 544-545. Tortora, Gerald J., and Sandra Reynolds Garbowski. 1981. Principles of Anatomy and Physiology. Harper Collins College Publishers, 1993. pp 683,686,689,690,705,9. & Row Publishers, New York. pg. 540-49.