Evolution of the Immune System in Humans from Infancy to Old Age

Overview

Journal Proc Biol Sci

Specialty Biology

Date 2015 Dec 25

PMID 26702035

Citations 734

Authors

A Katharina Simon

Georg A Hollander

Andrew McMichael

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

This article reviews the development of the immune response through neonatal, infant and adult life, including pregnancy, ending with the decline in old age. A picture emerges of a child born with an immature, innate and adaptive immune system, which matures and acquires memory as he or she grows. It then goes into decline in old age. These changes are considered alongside the risks of different types of infection, autoimmune disease and malignancy.

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