Immunosenescence: Emerging Challenges for an Ageing Population

Overview

Journal Immunology

Specialty Allergy & Immunology

Date 2007 Feb 23

PMID 17313487

Citations 365

Authors

Danielle Aw

Alberto B Silva

Donald B Palmer

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

It is now becoming apparent that the immune system undergoes age-associated alterations, which accumulate to produce a progressive deterioration in the ability to respond to infections and to develop immunity after vaccination, both of which are associated with a higher mortality rate in the elderly. Immunosenescence, defined as the changes in the immune system associated with age, has been gathering interest in the scientific and health-care sectors alike. The rise in its recognition is both pertinent and timely given the increasing average age and the corresponding failure to increase healthy life expectancy. This review attempts to highlight the age-dependent defects in the innate and adaptive immune systems. While discussing the mechanisms that contribute to immunosenescence, with emphasis on the extrinsic factors, particular attention will be focused on thymic involution. Finally, we illuminate potential therapies that could be employed to help us live a longer, fuller and healthier life.

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