Interleukin-10 Expressing B Lineage Cells In Visceral Adipose Tissue Protect Against Aging-Related Insulin Resistance And Extend Lifespan
Scientists have uncovered a fascinating role for certain immune cells residing in our belly fat, the fat surrounding internal organs. These special immune cells, known as B-10 cells, produce a crucial anti-inflammatory molecule called Interleukin-10. As we age, these protective B-10 cells actually increase in number within the belly fat. This increase is important because these cells act as a natural defense, helping to combat the inflammation and insulin resistance that often come with aging. Insulin resistance is a condition where the body’s cells don’t respond effectively to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels. The research showed that when the ability of these B cells to produce Interleukin-10 was removed, aging-related inflammation and insulin resistance worsened, and lifespan was reduced. Conversely, boosting the numbers of these protective B-10 cells, for example by increasing a factor called BAFF in the belly fat, improved these age-related conditions and even extended lifespan. This discovery suggests that our own body fat might harbor a protective mechanism against the effects of aging, offering new avenues for understanding and potentially combating age-related health issues.
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