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Gödde D, Degener S, Walles C, Keller R, Graf K, Tosch M, Krege S, Musch M, Kvasnicka HM, Ackermann M, Störkel S, von Rundstedt FC. Degenerative Changes in Aging Human Pelvic Lymph Nodes-A Reason to Rethink Staging and Therapy of Regional Malignancies? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4754. [PMID: 37835449 PMCID: PMC10571730 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymph node metastases are common in pelvic urological tumors, and the age-related remodeling process of the pelvic lymph nodes influences metastatic behavior. The aim of this work is to characterize age-related degenerative changes in the pelvic lymph nodes with respect to their occurrence and extent. A total of 5173 pelvic lymph nodes of 390 patients aged 44 to 79 years (median 68 years, IQR 62-71 years) were histologically examined for degenerative structural changes. Lymph node size, lipomatous atrophy, capsular fibrosis, framework fibrosis, and calcifications were recorded semi-quantitatively and evaluated by age group. Significantly more lymph nodes <10 mm were found in older patients (p = 0.001). The incidence of framework fibrosis, capsular fibrosis, and calcifications increased significantly with increasing patient age (p < 0.001). In lipomatous atrophy, an increase in mild to moderate lipomatous atrophy was observed with increasing age (p < 0.001). In this, the largest study to date on this topic, age-related degenerative changes in pelvic lymph nodes were proven. Due to the consecutive decrease in hte filtration function of pelvic lymph nodes with increasing age, staging and therapy of metastatic pelvic urologic carcinomas should be reconsidered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gödde
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, Helios University Hospital Wuppertal, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany
| | - Stephan Degener
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany
- Department of Urology, Helios University Hospital Wuppertal, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Christine Walles
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, Helios University Hospital Wuppertal, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Rosalie Keller
- Clinic for Otolaryngology, HELIOS-Hospital, 47805 Krefeld, Germany
| | - Katharina Graf
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany
- Centre for Clinical Trials, Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany
| | - Marco Tosch
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Helios University Hospital Wuppertal, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Susanne Krege
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Urologic Oncology, Evangelische Kliniken Essen-Mitte, 45136 Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Musch
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Urologic Oncology, Evangelische Kliniken Essen-Mitte, 45136 Essen, Germany
| | - Hans Michael Kvasnicka
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, Helios University Hospital Wuppertal, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany
| | - Maximilian Ackermann
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, Helios University Hospital Wuppertal, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Stephan Störkel
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, Helios University Hospital Wuppertal, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany
| | - Friedrich-Carl von Rundstedt
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany
- Department of Urology, Helios University Hospital Wuppertal, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
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Liu Z, Liang Q, Ren Y, Guo C, Ge X, Wang L, Cheng Q, Luo P, Zhang Y, Han X. Immunosenescence: molecular mechanisms and diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:200. [PMID: 37179335 PMCID: PMC10182360 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01451-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection susceptibility, poor vaccination efficacy, age-related disease onset, and neoplasms are linked to innate and adaptive immune dysfunction that accompanies aging (known as immunosenescence). During aging, organisms tend to develop a characteristic inflammatory state that expresses high levels of pro-inflammatory markers, termed inflammaging. This chronic inflammation is a typical phenomenon linked to immunosenescence and it is considered the major risk factor for age-related diseases. Thymic involution, naïve/memory cell ratio imbalance, dysregulated metabolism, and epigenetic alterations are striking features of immunosenescence. Disturbed T-cell pools and chronic antigen stimulation mediate premature senescence of immune cells, and senescent immune cells develop a proinflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype that exacerbates inflammaging. Although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be addressed, it is well documented that senescent T cells and inflammaging might be major driving forces in immunosenescence. Potential counteractive measures will be discussed, including intervention of cellular senescence and metabolic-epigenetic axes to mitigate immunosenescence. In recent years, immunosenescence has attracted increasing attention for its role in tumor development. As a result of the limited participation of elderly patients, the impact of immunosenescence on cancer immunotherapy is unclear. Despite some surprising results from clinical trials and drugs, it is necessary to investigate the role of immunosenescence in cancer and other age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaoqu Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qimeng Liang
- Nephrology Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, 4500052, Henan, China
| | - Yuqing Ren
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chunguang Guo
- Department of Endovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiaoyong Ge
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Libo Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Quan Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Peng Luo
- Department of Oncology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Biotherapy Center and Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Xinwei Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Thymus transplantation regulates blood pressure and alleviates hypertension-associated heart and kidney damage via transcription factors FoxN1 pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 116:109798. [PMID: 36738681 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have found that thymus is involved in the process of hypertension. However, whether thymus transplantation alleviates target organ damage in hypertensive mice remains unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of thymus transplantation on blood pressure and target organ changes in mice with hypertension. Mice were randomly divided into normal control group (Con), hypertensive group (HTN) and thymus transplantation group (HTN + Trans). Thymus of neonatal mice was transplanted into the renal capsule of the transplantation group. After transplantation, the mouse tail noninvasive pressure was measured and heart function was evaluated weekly. Then mice were euthanized and organs or tissues were harvested at 4 weeks post-transplantation. The blood pressure of HTN + Trans group was lower than that in the HTN group. The expression of FoxN1, Aire, ATRAP, thymosin β4 and the content of sjTREC in thymus of HTN group was decreased and the number of naïve T cells in HTN group was lower compared with other two groups. The ratio of cTEC/mTEC in HTN group was higher than that in Con group and lower than that in HTN + Trans group. Cardiac pathology showed cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in HTN group whereas thymus transplantation improved heart function and structure. Altogether, our findings demonstrated thymus transplantation could improve thymus function of hypertensive mice, which increased the expression of thymus transcription factor FoxN1, affected the proportion of T cell subsets, and increased thymosin β4 thereby reducing blood pressure and reversing the progression of target organ damage.
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Hino C, Xu Y, Xiao J, Baylink DJ, Reeves ME, Cao H. The potential role of the thymus in immunotherapies for acute myeloid leukemia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1102517. [PMID: 36814919 PMCID: PMC9940763 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1102517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the factors which shape T-lymphocyte immunity is critical for the development and application of future immunotherapeutic strategies in treating hematological malignancies. The thymus, a specialized central lymphoid organ, plays important roles in generating a diverse T lymphocyte repertoire during the infantile and juvenile stages of humans. However, age-associated thymic involution and diseases or treatment associated injury result in a decline in its continuous role in the maintenance of T cell-mediated anti-tumor/virus immunity. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematologic malignancy that mainly affects older adults, and the disease's progression is known to consist of an impaired immune surveillance including a reduction in naïve T cell output, a restriction in T cell receptor repertoire, and an increase in frequencies of regulatory T cells. As one of the most successful immunotherapies thus far developed for malignancy, T-cell-based adoptive cell therapies could be essential for the development of a durable effective treatment to eliminate residue leukemic cells (blasts) and prevent AML relapse. Thus, a detailed cellular and molecular landscape of how the adult thymus functions within the context of the AML microenvironment will provide new insights into both the immune-related pathogenesis and the regeneration of a functional immune system against leukemia in AML patients. Herein, we review the available evidence supporting the potential correlation between thymic dysfunction and T-lymphocyte impairment with the ontogeny of AML (II-VI). We then discuss how the thymus could impact current and future therapeutic approaches in AML (VII). Finally, we review various strategies to rejuvenate thymic function to improve the precision and efficacy of cancer immunotherapy (VIII).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Hino
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Yi Xu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Loma Linda University Cancer Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Jeffrey Xiao
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - David J Baylink
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Mark E Reeves
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Loma Linda University Cancer Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Huynh Cao
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Loma Linda University Cancer Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
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Jinna N, Rida P, Su T, Gong Z, Yao S, LaBarge M, Natarajan R, Jovanovic-Talisman T, Ambrosone C, Seewaldt V. The DARC Side of Inflamm-Aging: Duffy Antigen Receptor for Chemokines (DARC/ACKR1) as a Potential Biomarker of Aging, Immunosenescence, and Breast Oncogenesis among High-Risk Subpopulations. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233818. [PMID: 36497078 PMCID: PMC9740232 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The proclivity of certain pre-malignant and pre-invasive breast lesions to progress while others do not continues to perplex clinicians. Clinicians remain at a crossroads with effectively managing the high-risk patient subpopulation owing to the paucity of biomarkers that can adequately risk-stratify and inform clinical decisions that circumvent unnecessary administration of cytotoxic and invasive treatments. The immune system mounts the most important line of defense against tumorigenesis and progression. Unfortunately, this defense declines or "ages" over time-a phenomenon known as immunosenescence. This results in "inflamm-aging" or the excessive infiltration of pro-inflammatory chemokines, which alters the leukocyte composition of the tissue microenvironment, and concomitant immunoediting of these leukocytes to diminish their antitumor immune functions. Collectively, these effects can foster the sequelae of neoplastic transformation and progression. The erythrocyte cell antigen, Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines(DARC/ACKR1), binds and internalizes chemokines to maintain homeostatic levels and modulate leukocyte trafficking. A negative DARC status is highly prevalent among subpopulations of West African genetic ancestry, who are at higher risk of developing breast cancer and disease progression at a younger age. However, the role of DARC in accelerated inflamm-aging and malignant transformation remains underexplored. Herein, we review compelling evidence suggesting that DARC may be protective against inflamm-aging and, therefore, reduce the risk of a high-risk lesion progressing to malignancy. We also discuss evidence supporting that immunotherapeutic intervention-based on DARC status-among high-risk subpopulations may evade malignant transformation and progression. A closer look into this unique role of DARC could glean deeper insight into the immune response profile of individual high-risk patients and their predisposition to progress as well as guide the administration of more "cyto-friendly" immunotherapeutic intervention to potentially "turn back the clock" on inflamm-aging-mediated oncogenesis and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita Jinna
- Department of Population Science, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Padmashree Rida
- Department of Science, Rowland Hall, Salt Lake City, UT 84102, USA
| | - Tianyi Su
- Department of Science, Rowland Hall, Salt Lake City, UT 84102, USA
| | - Zhihong Gong
- Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Song Yao
- Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Mark LaBarge
- Department of Population Science, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Rama Natarajan
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | | | - Christine Ambrosone
- Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Victoria Seewaldt
- Department of Population Science, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Correspondence:
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Etxebeste-Mitxeltorena M, Del Rincón-Loza I, Martín-Antonio B. Tumor Secretome to Adoptive Cellular Immunotherapy: Reduce Me Before I Make You My Partner. Front Immunol 2021; 12:717850. [PMID: 34447383 PMCID: PMC8382692 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.717850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cellular immunotherapy using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells and Natural Killer (NK) cells are common immune cell sources administered to treat cancer patients. In detail, whereas CAR-T cells induce outstanding responses in a subset of hematological malignancies, responses are much more deficient in solid tumors. Moreover, NK cells have not shown remarkable results up to date. In general, immune cells present high plasticity to change their activity and phenotype depending on the stimuli they receive from molecules secreted in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Consequently, immune cells will also secrete molecules that will shape the activities of other neighboring immune and tumor cells. Specifically, NK cells can polarize to activities as diverse as angiogenic ones instead of their killer activity. In addition, tumor cell phagocytosis by macrophages, which is required to remove dying tumor cells after the attack of NK cells or CAR-T cells, can be avoided in the TME. In addition, chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatments can induce senescence in tumor cells modifying their secretome to a known as “senescence-associated secretory phenotype” (SASP) that will also impact the immune response. Whereas the SASP initially attracts immune cells to eliminate senescent tumor cells, at high numbers of senescent cells, the SASP becomes detrimental, impacting negatively in the immune response. Last, CAR-T cells are an attractive option to overcome these events. Here, we review how molecules secreted in the TME by either tumor cells or even by immune cells impact the anti-tumor activity of surrounding immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikel Etxebeste-Mitxeltorena
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-Fundación Jiménez Diaz, UAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés Del Rincón-Loza
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-Fundación Jiménez Diaz, UAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Martín-Antonio
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-Fundación Jiménez Diaz, UAM, Madrid, Spain
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7
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The Role of Senescent Cells in Acquired Drug Resistance and Secondary Cancer in BRAFi-Treated Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092241. [PMID: 34066966 PMCID: PMC8125319 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Advances in melanoma treatment include v-Raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (BRAF) inhibitors that target the predominant oncogenic mutation found in malignant melanoma. Despite initial success of the BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi) therapies, resistance and secondary cancer often occur. Mechanisms of resistance and secondary cancer rely on upregulation of pro-survival pathways that circumvent senescence. The repeated identification of a cellular senescent phenotype throughout melanoma progression demonstrates the contribution of senescent cells in resistance and secondary cancer development. Incorporating senotherapeutics in melanoma treatment may offer a novel approach for potentially improving clinical outcome. Abstract BRAF is the most common gene mutated in malignant melanoma, and predominately it is a missense mutation of codon 600 in the kinase domain. This oncogenic BRAF missense mutation results in constitutive activation of the mitogen-activate protein kinase (MAPK) pro-survival pathway. Several BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) have been developed to specifically inhibit BRAFV600 mutations that improve melanoma survival, but resistance and secondary cancer often occur. Causal mechanisms of BRAFi-induced secondary cancer and resistance have been identified through upregulation of MAPK and alternate pro-survival pathways. In addition, overriding of cellular senescence is observed throughout the progression of disease from benign nevi to malignant melanoma. In this review, we discuss melanoma BRAF mutations, the genetic mechanism of BRAFi resistance, and the evidence supporting the role of senescent cells in melanoma disease progression, drug resistance and secondary cancer. We further highlight the potential benefit of targeting senescent cells with senotherapeutics as adjuvant therapy in combating melanoma.
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Lian J, Yue Y, Yu W, Zhang Y. Immunosenescence: a key player in cancer development. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:151. [PMID: 33168037 PMCID: PMC7653700 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00986-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunosenescence is a process of immune dysfunction that occurs with age and includes remodeling of lymphoid organs, leading to changes in the immune function of the elderly, which is closely related to the development of infections, autoimmune diseases, and malignant tumors. T cell-output decline is an important feature of immunosenescence as well as the production of senescence-associated secretory phenotype, increased glycolysis, and reactive oxygen species. Senescent T cells exhibit abnormal phenotypes, including downregulation of CD27, CD28, and upregulation of CD57, killer cell lectin-like receptor subfamily G, Tim-3, Tight, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4, which are tightly related to malignant tumors. The role of immunosenescence in tumors is sophisticated: the many factors involved include cAMP, glucose competition, and oncogenic stress in the tumor microenvironment, which can induce the senescence of T cells, macrophages, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells. Accordingly, these senescent immune cells could also affect tumor progression. In addition, the effect of immunosenescence on the response to immune checkpoint blocking antibody therapy so far is ambiguous due to the low participation of elderly cancer patients in clinical trials. Furthermore, many other senescence-related interventions could be possible with genetic and pharmacological methods, including mTOR inhibition, interleukin-7 recombination, and NAD+ activation. Overall, this review aims to highlight the characteristics of immunosenescence and its impact on malignant tumors and immunotherapy, especially the future directions of tumor treatment through senescence-focused strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyao Lian
- Biotherapy Center and Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Ying Yue
- Biotherapy Center and Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.,Clinical Laboratory, Henan Medical College Hospital Workers, Zhengzhou, 450000, Henan, China
| | - Weina Yu
- Biotherapy Center and Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Biotherapy Center and Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
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Bordoni V, Tartaglia E, Refolo G, Sacchi A, Grassi G, Antinori A, Fimia GM, Agrati C. Per2 Upregulation in Circulating Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells During Chronic HIV Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:362. [PMID: 32850472 PMCID: PMC7396677 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic HIV infection accelerates immune aging and is associated with abnormal hemato-lymphopoiesis, but the relationship between HIV-induced aging and Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells (HPC) function is not well-defined. In the context of aging, it has been demonstrated using a murine model that Per2 (Period circadian clock 2) is a negative regulator of HPC survival and lineage potential. A possible involvement of Per2 modulation on hematopoietic failure during HIV infection has not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to analyze whether Per2 is differently expressed and regulated on HPC during HIV infection, possibly providing a therapeutic target to restore lymphoid potential in the HPC compartment. To this purpose, Per2 expression in circulating HPC was compared in 69 chronic HIV infected patients under successful ART and in matched 30 uninfected healthy donors (HD). HPC aging was assessed by measuring relative telomere length (RTL), and HPC functionality was evaluated by Colony Forming Cell (CFC) assay from both ex vivo HIV+ patients and in vitro Per2 overexpressing donors. Our results showed a lower RTL in HPC and a decrease of white progenitor colonies from HIV+ patients with lower CD4 respect to those with higher CD4 T cell count (<500 respect to >500 CD4 T cell/mmc). Interestingly, we found that the frequency of Per2-expressing HPC is higher in HIV+ patients than in HD and correlated to RTL of CFC derived cells, highlighting a relationship between low proliferative rate and Per2 expression. Indeed, the in vitro overexpression of Per2 resulted in a significant decrease of white progenitor colonies respect to control cells. Finally, we showed that the deacetylase Sirtuin 1, a negative regulator of Per2, was downregulated in HPC from HIV+ patients, and the peripheral blood treatment with resveratrol (Sirtuin 1 inducer) determined a decrease of Per2 expressing HPC. Altogether, these results suggest that during HIV infection, Per2 is involved in the regulation of HPC expansion and differentiation and its overexpression may impair the immune reconstitution. These data support the rationale to explore the role of this regulatory mechanism during aged-associated hemato-lymphopoiesis impairment in HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Bordoni
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Tartaglia
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Refolo
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Electron Microscopy, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Sacchi
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Germana Grassi
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Antinori
- Clinical Department, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Fimia
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Electron Microscopy, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Agrati
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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García-Ceca J, Montero-Herradón S, Zapata AG. Thymus aging in mice deficient in either EphB2 or EphB3, two master regulators of thymic epithelium development. Dev Dyn 2020; 249:1243-1258. [PMID: 32506584 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epithelial microenvironment is involved in thymus aging, but the possible role of EphB receptors that govern the thymic epithelium development has not been investigated. Herein, we study the changes undergone by the thymus of EphB-deficient mice throughout their life. RESULTS Immune alterations occurring throughout life were more severe in mutant than in wild-type (WT) mice. Mutant thymuses exhibit lower cellularity than WT ones, as well as lower proportions of early thymic progenitors cells and double-positive (CD4+ CD8+ ) thymocytes, but higher of double-negative (CD4- CD8- ) and single-positive (CD4+ CD8- , CD4- CD8+ ) cells. Throughout life, CD4+ naïve cells decreased particularly in mutant mice. In correlation, memory T cells, largely CD8+ cells, increased. Aged thymic epithelium undergoes changes including appearance of big epithelial free areas, decrease of K8+ K5- areas, which, however, contain higher proportions of Ly51+ UEA1- cortical epithelial cells, in correlation with reduced Aire+ medullary epithelial cells. Also, aged thymuses particularly those derived from mutant mice exhibited increased collagen IV, fat-storing cells, and connective cells. CONCLUSIONS The absence of EphB accelerates the alterations undergone throughout life by both thymic epithelium and thymocytes, and the proportions of peripheral naïve and memory T cells, all of which are hallmarks of immune aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier García-Ceca
- Department of Cell Biology; Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Health Research Institute, Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Montero-Herradón
- Department of Cell Biology; Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Health Research Institute, Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Agustín G Zapata
- Department of Cell Biology; Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Health Research Institute, Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
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Thomas R, Wang W, Su DM. Contributions of Age-Related Thymic Involution to Immunosenescence and Inflammaging. IMMUNITY & AGEING 2020; 17:2. [PMID: 31988649 PMCID: PMC6971920 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-020-0173-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Immune system aging is characterized by the paradox of immunosenescence (insufficiency) and inflammaging (over-reaction), which incorporate two sides of the same coin, resulting in immune disorder. Immunosenescence refers to disruption in the structural architecture of immune organs and dysfunction in immune responses, resulting from both aged innate and adaptive immunity. Inflammaging, described as a chronic, sterile, systemic inflammatory condition associated with advanced age, is mainly attributed to somatic cellular senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and age-related autoimmune predisposition. However, the inability to reduce senescent somatic cells (SSCs), because of immunosenescence, exacerbates inflammaging. Age-related adaptive immune system deviations, particularly altered T cell function, are derived from age-related thymic atrophy or involution, a hallmark of thymic aging. Recently, there have been major developments in understanding how age-related thymic involution contributes to inflammaging and immunosenescence at the cellular and molecular levels, including genetic and epigenetic regulation, as well as developments of many potential rejuvenation strategies. Herein, we discuss the research progress uncovering how age-related thymic involution contributes to immunosenescence and inflammaging, as well as their intersection. We also describe how T cell adaptive immunity mediates inflammaging and plays a crucial role in the progression of age-related neurological and cardiovascular diseases, as well as cancer. We then briefly outline the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of age-related thymic involution, and finally summarize potential rejuvenation strategies to restore aged thymic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Thomas
- Cell Biology, Immunology, and Microbiology Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Fort Worth, Texas 76107 USA
| | - Weikan Wang
- Cell Biology, Immunology, and Microbiology Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Fort Worth, Texas 76107 USA
| | - Dong-Ming Su
- 2Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas 76107 USA
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Zhang Y, Li Q, Hou P, Lu Y, Yang H, Lin X, Su C, Wei Y, Yang X, Yang H, Zhao X, Chen X. Transcription-Related Dynamics from Immune Disability into Endogenous Innovation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2019; 6:1900767. [PMID: 31832307 PMCID: PMC6891922 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201900767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
So far, thymus involution in adults is believed to be irreversible, and endogenous innovation for thymus-related immunodeficiency remains to be an intractable puzzle. With the expectation of addressing this dilemma, human ovarian surface epithelium (OSE) has been reengineered as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-tridimensional-spheroid biologics (ETSB) using a dynamic EMT-3D-floating system along with 160 Gy X-ray-amelioration, which inoculates subcutaneously into aging rhesus and athymic Balb/c nu/nu mice. Herein, it is bioinformatically validated that ETSB can reset Clock/Arntl-Per3/Tim molecule rhythm dynamics to re-prime thymus residual (parathyroid or fatty-like invalid vesicles yet no thymic architecture) to evolutionary transcription with overall cortex-medulla endogenized by TECs undergoing MET/EMT reversion. Rhythm dynamics immediately resettles the bHLH-LTβR-NFκB-RelA/B loop as a cascade to provoke the core immune microenvironment for multifunctional innovation of dynamic TCR orchestration, with harmonious naïve T-subsets and TRECs renewals (P < 0.005). Subsequently, peripheral biological burden and tumor metastasis dynamics are addressed by innovative TCR-defense/attack dynamics quickly (P < 0.005 vs Control), yet without autoimmune indication to hosts. Moreover, a functional blockade of core-rhythm dynamics deeply impedes the endogenous innovation of invalid thymus residual. Thus this study may help pioneer a prospective strategy to innovate panoramic central-peripheral immune microenvironments and defense dynamics for immune-deficient/aging victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanna Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityKeyuan Road 4 No. 1, High Technological Development ZoneChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Qian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityKeyuan Road 4 No. 1, High Technological Development ZoneChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Panyan Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityKeyuan Road 4 No. 1, High Technological Development ZoneChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Yanan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityKeyuan Road 4 No. 1, High Technological Development ZoneChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Huanhuan Yang
- Department of Gynecology & ObstetricsWest China Hospital/Second HospitalSichuan UniversityNo 20, Section 3, South Renmin RoadChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Xiaojuan Lin
- Department of Gynecology & ObstetricsWest China Hospital/Second HospitalSichuan UniversityNo 20, Section 3, South Renmin RoadChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Chao Su
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityKeyuan Road 4 No. 1, High Technological Development ZoneChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityKeyuan Road 4 No. 1, High Technological Development ZoneChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Xiulin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityKeyuan Road 4 No. 1, High Technological Development ZoneChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Hanshuo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityKeyuan Road 4 No. 1, High Technological Development ZoneChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology & ObstetricsWest China Hospital/Second HospitalSichuan UniversityNo 20, Section 3, South Renmin RoadChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
| | - Xiancheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center for BiotherapyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityKeyuan Road 4 No. 1, High Technological Development ZoneChengduSichuan610041P. R. China
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Chen KH, Tsang NM, Chou WC, Tai SF, Liu SC, Lei KF, Chang KP, Chuang WC, Pai PC. Prognostic significance of pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in older patients with metastatic cancer. J Geriatr Oncol 2019; 10:757-762. [PMID: 31085137 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2019.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment options for older patients with malignancies remain suboptimal. An accurate prognostic stratification could inform treatment decisions, which can potentially improve patient outcomes. Here, we sought to investigate whether the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) may have prognostic significance in patients with metastatic malignant tumors, with a special focus on older individuals. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 3981 patients with histology-proven metastatic cancer who underwent radiotherapy between 2000 and 2013. The pretreatment NLR was determined within 7 days before treatment initiation. Patients aged ≥65 years were considered as older. We analyzed the prognostic significance of NLR for overall survival (OS) across all age groups. RESULTS Compared with their younger counterparts, older patients showed a higher NLR (P < 0.001) and a lower OS (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that a pretreatment NLR below the median was an independent favorable predictor of OS in both older (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.669, 95.0% CI: 0.605-0.740; P < 0.001) and younger patients (HR: 0.704; 95.0% CI: 0.648-0.765; P < 0.001). Regardless of age, patients who underwent systemic therapy showed more favorable OS, especially when NLR was low. In the older subgroup, the OS of patients with a low pretreatment NLR who did not undergo systemic therapy and of those with high pretreatment NLR who underwent systemic therapy was similar. CONCLUSION A low pretreatment NLR predicts a more favorable OS in older patients with metastatic cancer. The most favorable OS was observed in patients with a low pretreatment NLR who received systemic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ngan-Ming Tsang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chi Chou
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Shiao Fwu Tai
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Chen Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taiwan
| | - Kin-Fong Lei
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Ping Chang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taiwan
| | | | - Ping-Ching Pai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan.
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14
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15
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Pawelec G. Does patient age influence anti-cancer immunity? Semin Immunopathol 2018; 41:125-131. [DOI: 10.1007/s00281-018-0697-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Ramos-Sesma V, Górgolas-Hernández Mora M, Ramos-Rincón JM. The elderly traveller. Rev Clin Esp 2018; 218:426-434. [PMID: 29685639 DOI: 10.1016/j.rce.2018.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Improved living conditions and advances in medicine have extended life expectancy and quality of life, resulting in an increasing number of elderly travellers. Pathophysiological changes and treatments can reduce the efficacy of vaccines and facilitate drug interactions. Elderly travellers have various characteristics that should be considered when offering pre-trip counselling, which should include proper management of chronic diseases that are susceptible to worsening during the trip, as well as an appropriate study and follow-up after the trip. We performed a narrative review of the main problems of elderly travellers.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Ramos-Sesma
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Marina Alta, Denia, Alicante, España
| | | | - J M Ramos-Rincón
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital General Universitario de Alicante; Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche; ISABIAL - FISABIO, Alicante, España.
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Goronzy JJ, Weyand CM. Successful and Maladaptive T Cell Aging. Immunity 2017; 46:364-378. [PMID: 28329703 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2017.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Throughout life, the T cell system adapts to shifting resources and demands, resulting in a fundamentally restructured immune system in older individuals. Here we review the cellular and molecular features of an aged immune system and discuss the trade-offs inherent to these adaptive mechanisms. Processes include homeostatic proliferation that maintains compartment size at the expense of partial loss in stemness and incomplete differentiation and the activation of negative regulatory programs, which constrain effector T cell expansion and prevent increasing oligoclonality but also interfere with memory cell generation. We propose that immune failure occurs when adaptive strategies developed by the aging T cell system fail and also discuss how, in some settings, the programs associated with T cell aging culminates in a maladaptive response that directly contributes to chronic inflammatory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg J Goronzy
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Medicine, Palo Alto Veterans Administration Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
| | - Cornelia M Weyand
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Medicine, Palo Alto Veterans Administration Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
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MicroRNAs Regulate Thymic Epithelium in Age-Related Thymic Involution via Down- or Upregulation of Transcription Factors. J Immunol Res 2017; 2017:2528957. [PMID: 29226156 PMCID: PMC5684555 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2528957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related thymic involution is primarily induced by defects in nonhematopoietic thymic epithelial cells (TECs). It is characterized by dysfunction of multiple transcription factors (TFs), such as p63 and FoxN1, and also involves other TEC-associated regulators, such as Aire. These TFs and regulators are controlled by complicated regulatory networks, in which microRNAs (miRNAs) act as a key player. miRNAs can either directly target the 3'-UTRs (untranslated regions) of the TFs to suppress TF expression or target TF inhibitors to reduce or increase TF inhibitor expression and thereby indirectly enhance or inhibit TF expression. Here, we review the current understanding and recent studies about how miRNAs are involved in age-related thymic involution via regulation of TEC-autonomous TFs. We also discuss potential strategies for targeting miRNAs to rejuvenate age-related declined thymic function.
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19
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Olivieri F, Capri M, Bonafè M, Morsiani C, Jung HJ, Spazzafumo L, Viña J, Suh Y. Circulating miRNAs and miRNA shuttles as biomarkers: Perspective trajectories of healthy and unhealthy aging. Mech Ageing Dev 2017; 165:162-170. [PMID: 27986629 PMCID: PMC5481482 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Human aging is a lifelong process characterized by a continuous trade-off between pro-and anti-inflammatory responses, where the best-adapted and/or remodeled genetic/epigenetic profile may develop a longevity phenotype. Centenarians and their offspring represent such a phenotype and their comparison to patients with age-related diseases (ARDs) is expected to maximize the chance to unravel the genetic makeup that better associates with healthy aging trajectories. Seemingly, such comparison is expected to allow the discovery of new biomarkers of longevity together with risk factor for the most common ARDs. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and their shuttles (extracellular vesicles in particular) are currently conceived as those endowed with the strongest ability to provide information about the trajectories of healthy and unhealthy aging. We review the available data on miRNAs in aging and underpin the evidence suggesting that circulating miRNAs (and cognate shuttles), especially those involved in the regulation of inflammation (inflamma-miRs) may constitute biomarkers capable of reliably depicting healthy and unhealthy aging trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Olivieri
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Tronto 10/A, Ancona, Italy; Center of Clinical Pathology and Innovative Therapy, Italian National Research Center on Aging, INRCA-IRCCS, Ancona, Italy
| | - Miriam Capri
- DIMES- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum, Via S. Giacomo, 12, Bologna, Italy; CIG, Interdepartmental Center "L. Galvani", Alma Mater Studiorum, Pzza Porta S. Donato, 1, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Massimiliano Bonafè
- DIMES- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum, Via S. Giacomo, 12, Bologna, Italy
| | - Cristina Morsiani
- DIMES- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum, Via S. Giacomo, 12, Bologna, Italy; CIG, Interdepartmental Center "L. Galvani", Alma Mater Studiorum, Pzza Porta S. Donato, 1, Bologna, Italy
| | - Hwa Jin Jung
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Liana Spazzafumo
- Center of Clinical Pathology and Innovative Therapy, Italian National Research Center on Aging, INRCA-IRCCS, Ancona, Italy
| | - Jose Viña
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia. INCLIVA Avda, Blasco Ibañez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Yousin Suh
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
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Masters AR, Haynes L, Su DM, Palmer DB. Immune senescence: significance of the stromal microenvironment. Clin Exp Immunol 2016; 187:6-15. [PMID: 27529161 DOI: 10.1111/cei.12851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system undergoes age-associated changes known as immunosenescence, resulting in increased susceptibility to infections, cancers and autoimmunity in the aged. The basis of our understanding of immunosenescence has been derived primarily from studies examining intrinsic defects within many of the cells of the immune system. While these studies have provided insight into the mechanisms of immunosenescence, a picture is now emerging that the stromal microenvironment within lymphoid organs also contributes significantly to the age-associated decline of immune function. These extrinsic defects appear to impact the functional activity of immune cells and may offer a potential target to recover immune activity. Indeed, rejuvenation studies which have targeted the stromal niche have restored immune function in aged successfully, highlighting the impact of the microenvironment towards the aetiology of immunosenescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Masters
- UConn Center on Aging, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.,Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - L Haynes
- UConn Center on Aging, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.,Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - D-M Su
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - D B Palmer
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, UK
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Wang HX, Cheng JS, Chu S, Qiu YR, Zhong XP. mTORC2 in Thymic Epithelial Cells Controls Thymopoiesis and T Cell Development. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 197:141-50. [PMID: 27233961 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1502698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) play important roles in T cell generation. Mechanisms that control TEC development and function are still not well defined. The mammalian or mechanistic target of rapamycin complex (mTORC)2 signals to regulate cell survival, nutrient uptake, and metabolism. We report in the present study that mice with TEC-specific ablation of Rictor, a critical and unique adaptor molecule in mTORC2, display thymic atrophy, which accompanies decreased TEC numbers in the medulla. Moreover, generation of multiple T cell lineages, including conventional TCRαβ T cells, regulatory T cells, invariant NKT cells, and TCRγδ T cells, was reduced in TEC-specific Rictor-deficient mice. Our data demonstrate that mTORC2 in TECs is important for normal thymopoiesis and efficient T cell generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Xia Wang
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China; Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Joyce S Cheng
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710; Pre-Med (BS/MD) Health Scholar Program, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19222
| | - Shuai Chu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China; Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Yu-Rong Qiu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China;
| | - Xiao-Ping Zhong
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710; Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710; and Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapies Program, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
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Aw D, Hilliard L, Nishikawa Y, Cadman ET, Lawrence RA, Palmer DB. Disorganization of the splenic microanatomy in ageing mice. Immunology 2016; 148:92-101. [PMID: 26840375 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The precise mechanisms responsible for immunosenescence still remain to be determined, however, considering the evidence that disruption of the organization of primary and secondary lymphoid organs results in immunodeficiency, we propose that this could be involved in the decline of immune responses with age. Therefore, we investigated the integrity of the splenic microarchitecture in mice of increasing age and its reorganization following immune challenge in young and old mice. Several differences in the anatomy of the spleen with age in both the immune and stromal cells were observed. There is an age-related increase in the overall size of the white pulp, which occurs primarily within the T-cell zone and is mirrored by the enlargement of the T-cell stromal area, concurrent to the distinct boundary between T cells and B cells becoming less defined in older mice. In conjunction, there appears to be a loss of marginal zone macrophages, which is accompanied by an accumulation of fibroblasts in the spleens from older animals. Furthermore, whereas the reorganization of the white pulp is resolved after several days following antigenic challenge in young animals, it remains perturbed in older subjects. All these age-related changes within the spleen could potentially contribute to the age-dependent deficiencies in functional immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Aw
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, UK
| | - Lucy Hilliard
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, UK
| | - Yoshio Nishikawa
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, UK
| | - Emma T Cadman
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, UK
| | - Rachel A Lawrence
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, UK
| | - Donald B Palmer
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, UK
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Infektionsschutz und spezielle Hygienemaßnahmen in klinischen Disziplinen. KRANKENHAUS- UND PRAXISHYGIENE 2016. [PMCID: PMC7152143 DOI: 10.1016/b978-3-437-22312-9.00005-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Septic Shock in Advanced Age: Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Altered Molecular Signatures in Neutrophil Granulocytes. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128341. [PMID: 26047321 PMCID: PMC4457834 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 04/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is one of the highest causes of mortality in hospitalized people and a common complication in both surgical and clinical patients admitted to hospital for non-infectious reasons. Sepsis is especially common in older people and its incidence is likely to increase substantially as a population ages. Despite its increased prevalence and mortality in older people, immune responses in the elderly during septic shock appear similar to that in younger patients. The purpose of this study was to conduct a genome-wide gene expression analysis of circulating neutrophils from old and young septic patients to better understand how aged individuals respond to severe infectious insult. We detected several genes whose expression could be used to differentiate immune responses of the elderly from those of young people, including genes related to oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondrial dysfunction and TGF-β signaling, among others. Our results identify major molecular pathways that are particularly affected in the elderly during sepsis, which might have a pivotal role in worsening clinical outcomes compared with young people with sepsis.
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Boraschi D, Italiani P. Immunosenescence and vaccine failure in the elderly: Strategies for improving response. Immunol Lett 2014; 162:346-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2014.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Revised: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Jergović M, Tomičević M, Vidović A, Bendelja K, Savić A, Vojvoda V, Rac D, Lovrić-Čavar D, Rabatić S, Jovanovic T, Sabioncello A. Telomere shortening and immune activity in war veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 54:275-83. [PMID: 24977331 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2014.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2014] [Revised: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing evidence that chronic stress accelerates telomere erosion in leukocytes/peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). However, functional changes associated with telomere shortening are poorly understood. We hypothesized that war veterans with PTSD would have shorter telomeres in PBMCs and that these cells might exhibit changes in measures of immune reactivity such as proliferation, cytokine production and expression of regulators of immune responses. METHODS We measured relative telomere length and basal telomerase activity in PBMCs of 62 individuals (PTSD patients (N=30); age-matched healthy controls (N=17), elderly volunteers (N=15)). In parallel, we have assessed proliferation of activated T cells, interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-6 cytokine production and expression of programmed death 1 (PD-1) receptor and its ligand PD-L1 on activated T cells. RESULTS Middle-aged war veterans with current PTSD had shorter PBMC telomere length than their age-matched healthy controls while the elderly had the shortest telomeres. There was no difference in telomerase activity between PTSD patients and healthy controls while telomerase activity was significantly lower in the elderly. While the elderly group exhibited robust changes in immune activity such as increased production of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and reduced proliferation of all T cells, the PTSD group showed reduced proliferative response of CD8(+) T cells to high concentrations of mitogen and reduced spontaneous production of IL-2 and IFN-γ. CONCLUSIONS This study adds to the accumulating evidence that psychological trauma and chronic stress are associated with accelerated telomere attrition. However, changes in immune function associated with stress-related telomere shortening are not well understood. Although much less pronounced in PTSD patients than in elderly persons, reduced proliferative responses of T cells accompanied by shorter telomeres might be a sign of early immunosenescence. Together with reduced production of Th1 cytokines, observed immune changes may contribute to health risks associated with PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mladen Jergović
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Marko Tomičević
- Dr. Josip Benčević General Hospital, Slavonski Brod, Croatia
| | | | - Krešo Bendelja
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Savić
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Valerija Vojvoda
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dijana Rac
- Dr. Josip Benčević General Hospital, Slavonski Brod, Croatia
| | | | - Sabina Rabatić
- Institute of Immunology, Department for Cellular Immunology, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tanja Jovanovic
- Emory University, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ante Sabioncello
- Institute of Immunology, Department for Cellular Immunology, Zagreb, Croatia
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27
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Abstract
Continued generation of new B cells within the bone marrow is required throughout life. However, in old age, B lymphopoiesis is inhibited at multiple developmental stages from hematopoietic stem cells through the late stages of new B cell generation. While changes in B cell precursor subsets, as well as alterations in the supporting bone marrow microenvironment, in old age have been known for the last 20 years, only more recently have insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible become clarified. Our recent discovery that B cells in aged mice are pro-inflammatory and can diminish B cell generation within the bone marrow suggests a potential mechanism of inappropriate "B cell feedback" which contributes to a bone marrow microenvironment unfavorable to B lymphopoiesis. We hypothesize that the consequences of a pro-inflammatory microenvironment in old age are (1) reduced B cell generation and (2) alteration in the "read-out" of the antibody repertoire. Both of these likely ensue from reduced expression of the surrogate light chain (λ5 + VpreB) and consequently reduced expression of the pre-B cell receptor (preBCR), critical to pre-B cell expansion and Vh selection. In old age, B cell development may progressively be diverted into a preBCR-compromised pathway. These abnormalities in B lymphopoiesis likely contribute to the poor humoral immunity seen in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Riley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, P.O. Box 016960 (R-138), Miami, FL, 33101, USA,
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28
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Keith SA, Amrit FRG, Ratnappan R, Ghazi A. The C. elegans healthspan and stress-resistance assay toolkit. Methods 2014; 68:476-86. [PMID: 24727065 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2014.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Revised: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A wealth of knowledge on the genetic mechanisms that govern aging has emerged from the study of mutants that exhibit enhanced longevity and exceptional resilience to adverse environmental conditions. In these studies, lifespan has been an excellent proxy for establishing the rate of aging, but it is not always correlated with qualitative measures of healthy aging or 'healthspan'. Although the attributes of healthspan have been challenging to define, they share some universal features that are increasingly being incorporated into aging studies. Here we describe methods used to determine Caenorhabditis elegans healthspan. These include assessments of tissue integrity and functionality and resistance to a variety of biotic and abiotic stressors. We have chosen to include simple, rapid assays in this collection that can be easily undertaken in any C. elegans laboratory, and can be relied on to provide a preliminary but thorough insight into the healthspan of a population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Alexander Keith
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 7129 Rangos Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States
| | - Francis Raj Gandhi Amrit
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 7129 Rangos Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States
| | - Ramesh Ratnappan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 7129 Rangos Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States
| | - Arjumand Ghazi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 7129 Rangos Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States.
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29
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Bueno V, Sant'Anna OA, Lord JM. Ageing and myeloid-derived suppressor cells: possible involvement in immunosenescence and age-related disease. AGE (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2014; 36:9729. [PMID: 25399072 PMCID: PMC4233024 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-014-9729-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Infections, cancer and autoimmune diseases occur more frequently in the elderly, and although many factors contribute to this, the age-related remodelling of the immune system, termed immunosenescence, plays a major role. Over the last two decades, studies have evaluated the effect of ageing on both the adaptive and innate arms of the immune system and demonstrated compromised function in several cells including lymphocytes (naïve, effector and memory), regulatory T and B cells, monocytes, neutrophils and NK cells. In addition, a well-documented feature of ageing is the increase in systemic inflammatory status (inflammageing), with raised serum levels of IL6, TNFα and CRP as well as reduced IL10. Recently, myeloid-derived suppressor cells have been the focus of many reports as these cells show immunosuppressive properties and are present in higher frequency during infections, cancer and autoimmunity. Importantly, there have been publications showing increased numbers of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in aged mice and humans. In this review, we discuss the current literature on myeloid-derived suppressor cells, their possible role in altered immune function in the elderly, and whether it may be possible to manipulate these cells to alleviate age-related immune dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valquiria Bueno
- Department of Microbiology Immunology and Parasitology, UNIFESP Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,
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30
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Abstract
Age-related regression of the thymus is associated with a decline in naïve T cell output. This is thought to contribute to the reduction in T cell diversity seen in older individuals and linked with increased susceptibility to infection, autoimmune disease, and cancer. Thymic involution is one of the most dramatic and ubiquitous changes seen in the aging immune system, but the mechanisms which underlying this process are poorly understood. However, a picture is emerging, implicating the involvement of both extrinsic and intrinsic factors. In this review we assess the role of the thymic microenvironment as a potential target that regulates thymic involution, question whether thymocyte development in the aged thymus is functionally impaired, and explore the kinetics of thymic involution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald B Palmer
- Infection and Immunity Group, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London , London , UK
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