Immunosenescence and Inflamm-aging

Abstract

Immunosenescence is the alteration of the immune system due to aging process which affects both innate and adaptive immunity. The major changes in innate immunity are decreased functions of surface barriers and innate immune cells. Several aspects of adaptive immunity are also altered, particularly naïve B cells, naïve T cells and CD8+ T cells. Consequently, the elderly are prone to certain infections, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. Interestingly, there is a term, “inflamm-aging,” which refers to the chronic low-grade systemic inflammation caused by the activation of the aging immune system. Inflamm-aging is characterized by increased serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other inflammatory biomarkers. This condition is linked to some chronic diseases, including atherosclerosis, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, as well as osteoporosis, and most importantly increases mortality risk in the elderly. Therefore, immunosenescence and inflamm-aging represent a significant challenge to the global health since the world is entering the aging society.