Immunosenescence - the sunset over the immune system

Immunosenescence is characterized by remodeling and dysregulation of immune system due to aging process. These changes affect innate as well as adaptive immunity. Due to the complexity of the physiological processes, in which the mechanisms of the immune system interfere, also other systems of the organism are affected by these changes. Thymus involution as well as chronic antigenic stimulation are the main causes of immunosenescence and lead to a proinflammatory setting of the organism. In addition to impaired immune response against infections or reactivation of latent infections, reduced response to vaccination or decreased antitumor immune surveillance, changes of the immune system in elderly are clinically reflected in the development of chronic diseases typical for older age groups, such as neurodegenerative or metabolic diseases. The mechanisms of immunosenescence can be at least partially influenced by an active lifestyle and adequate dietary measures.