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Menopause and aging: changes in the immune system--a review
Cátia Morgado Gameiro1, Fatima Romão, Camil Castelo-Branco
1Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Garcia de Orta's Hospital, Almada, Portugal.
Maturitas
|September 4, 2010
Summary
Aging and menopause significantly alter the immune system, increasing inflammation and reducing immune cell function. Estrogen deprivation is a key factor in these changes, impacting women
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Women exhibit a higher risk for autoimmune diseases, suggesting sex steroid mediation of the immune system.
- Investigating immune system changes related to aging and menopause is crucial for understanding women's health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the effects of aging and menopause on the human immune system.
- To synthesize findings on immune system alterations in postmenopausal women.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of in vitro, animal, and human studies was conducted.
- Literature search included MEDLINE, Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials Register, and internet search engines (1966-June 2010).
Main Results:
- Immunosenescence involves changes in cellular and serological immune responses, potentially increasing susceptibility to infections and chronic diseases.
- Post-menopause shows increased pro-inflammatory markers (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-alpha), heightened immune cell responsiveness, decreased CD4 T and B lymphocytes, and reduced Natural Killer (NK) cell activity.
- Interleukin-6 (IL-6) plays a role in bone resorption and is linked to post-menopausal conditions like diabetes, atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular disease.
Conclusions:
- Immune system changes in postmenopausal women are attributed to aging and estrogen deprivation.
- Recent research indicates immune response modifications associated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use or cessation during menopause.
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