The immune system in aging: roles of cytokines, T cells and NK cells

Front Biosci. 2005 Jan 1:10:192-215. doi: 10.2741/1521. Print 2005 Jan 1.

Abstract

Aging is characterized by a proinflammatory state that contributes to the onset of disability and age-related diseases. Proinflammatory cytokines play a central role in mediating cellular and physiological responses. The levels of these cytokines may reflect immune system effectiveness. Studies of the effects of aging on inflammatory response show interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) to be important. In this review, age-related changes in inflammatory cytokines, T and NK cells, and the biology of IL-6 and TNF-alpha and their relevance to senescence are considered.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging*
  • Animals
  • Biomarkers / chemistry
  • Cytokines / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Immune System*
  • Inflammation
  • Interleukin-6 / physiology*
  • Killer Cells, Natural / cytology*
  • Osteoporosis / metabolism
  • T-Lymphocytes / cytology*
  • Thymus Gland / metabolism
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / physiology*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Cytokines
  • Interleukin-6
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha