The aging of the immune system plays a significant role in frailty and age-related diseases. As individuals grow older, the immune system becomes overactive, leading to chronic inflammation and disrupting tissue function. This phenomenon, known as “inflammaging,” is accompanied by a decline in the immune system’s ability to combat pathogens and cancerous cells, termed “immunosenescence.” Researchers studied immune aging in cynomolgus macaques, revealing gene expression changes associated with inflammaging and immunosenescence. The findings shed light on age-related immune patterns in primates, offering valuable insights for future research in understanding and addressing immune aging.
The chronic low-grade inflammation observed with aging, known as “inflammaging,” is caused by the activation of innate immunity. This phenomenon, along with immunosenescence, which leads to reduced immune function in older individuals, increases susceptibility to infectious and age-related diseases. Epigenetic factors are now recognized as mediators between aging and immune response. Researchers analyzed the transcriptomic features of cynomolgus macaques, observing immune-related gene expression patterns across their entire lifespan. The study identified key patterns associated with innate and adaptive immunity, providing a comprehensive understanding of age-related immunological changes in primates.
