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Starlight Longevity

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Immunosenescence

Definition

Immunosenescence is the age-related remodeling and decline of immune system function. It can involve changes in both innate and adaptive immunity, including reduced production of new naive immune cells, altered T cell and B cell responses, weaker vaccine responses, chronic low-grade immune activation, and impaired immune surveillance. [1] [2] [3]

Why It Matters in Ageing Research

Immunosenescence matters because the immune system helps defend against infection, respond to vaccines, clear damaged or senescent cells, regulate inflammation, and monitor abnormal cells. Age-related immune changes are therefore linked to increased vulnerability to infections, some cancers, chronic inflammatory conditions, poorer vaccine responses, and slower recovery after stress or injury. In longevity research, immune ageing is studied both as a consequence of ageing and as a contributor to wider age-related decline. [2] [4] [5] [6]

Common Confusion

Related Reading

References

  1. Aw, D., Silva, A. B., & Palmer, D. B. (2007). Immunosenescence: emerging challenges for an ageing population. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2265901/
  2. Gruver, A. L., Hudson, L. L., & Sempowski, G. D. (2007). Immunosenescence of ageing. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1931833/
  3. Lee, K. A., et al. (2022). Immune Senescence, Immunosenescence and Aging. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9261375/
  4. Aiello, A., et al. (2019). Immunosenescence and Its Hallmarks: How to Oppose Aging Strategically?. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6773825/
  5. Fulop, T., et al. (2018). Immunosenescence and Inflamm-Aging As Two Sides of the Same Coin: Friends or Foes?. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5767595/
  6. Goyani, P., et al. (2024). Immunosenescence: Aging and Immune System Decline. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11680340/
Note

This glossary entry is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.