Cd8+ T Cell Aging, Senescence, And Related Disease
As we get older, our immune system naturally changes, a process scientists call immunosenescence. A key player in this change is a type of immune cell known as a CD8+ T cell, often referred to as a “killer” T cell because its job is to identify and destroy infected or cancerous cells. Over time, these vital cells can enter a state called senescence.
When a CD8+ T cell becomes senescent, it stops dividing but remains metabolically active, often releasing substances that can promote inflammation. This shift in our killer T cells has significant consequences. Their ability to effectively fight off new infections diminishes, making older individuals more vulnerable to illnesses and reducing the effectiveness of vaccines. Furthermore, these senescent cells are implicated in the development and progression of various age-related conditions, including autoimmune disorders, certain cancers, and even neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers are uncovering the mechanisms behind this cellular aging, such as changes in how DNA is packaged (chromatin remodeling) and problems with the cells’ energy-producing structures (mitochondrial dysfunction). Understanding these processes is crucial, as it opens up possibilities for developing new therapies that could target these senescent T cells to improve immune function and combat age-related diseases.
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