Doha: A recent study conducted by scientists from Sechenov Medical University in Russia found that the immune system begins to change and gradually decline at an earlier stage of life, between 30 and 40 years, than previously thought.
According to Qatar News Agency, the study was conducted in collaboration with researchers from The Research Institute of Fundamental and Clinical Immunology in Novosibirsk, Russia. It showed that immune cells gradually lose their ability to respond to inflammatory signals, leading to an increase in chronic inflammation within the body with age. This results in a paradoxical situation of increased intensity of inflammatory signals versus poor cellular response to them.
The researchers relied on analyzing blood samples taken from 144 healthy donors, aged between 18 and 59 years, while studying the main inflammatory cytokine receptors found on the surface of immune cells.
The results showed a decrease in some indicators of the activity of immune cells and their surface receptors, along with changes in other types of cells, especially T lymphocytes. This indicates complex changes in the immune system's response mechanisms with age.
Scientists believe that these results contribute to a better understanding of age-related changes in the immune system. They may help in developing therapeutic and preventive strategies designed to reduce diseases associated with aging and improve their management.