Intracellular signalling pathways: targets to reverse immunosenescence
T Fulop1, J M Witkowski2, A Le Page1
1Research Center on Ageing, Department of Medicine, Graduate Program in Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
Clinical and Experimental Immunology
|July 2, 2016
Summary
Aging alters the immune system, a process called immunosenescence, leading to inflammation and increased disease risk. Research explores reversing these changes by targeting immune cell signaling pathways.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gerontology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Aging involves complex, multifactorial dysregulation of bodily systems.
- Immunosenescence, detrimental changes in immune system architecture and function, is a hallmark of aging.
- Age-associated inflammation, termed 'inflamm-aging,' is linked to chronic diseases and infection susceptibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss age-related alterations in immune cell signaling pathways.
- To examine current targets and methods for modulating immune function in aging.
- To consider the potential benefits and risks of interventions aimed at reversing immunosenescence.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on immunosenescence and cellular signaling.
- Analysis of age-associated changes in immune cell pathways.
- Discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting immune signaling in aging.
Main Results:
- Aging significantly impacts immune cell signaling, contributing to immunosenescence.
- Specific signaling pathways are being identified as targets for intervention.
- Interventions show potential for both benefits and risks, requiring careful consideration.
Conclusions:
- Understanding altered immune cell signaling is crucial for addressing age-related decline.
- Targeting these pathways offers novel therapeutic avenues for age-related diseases.
- Future research should focus on safe and effective modulation of immunosenescence.
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