Review of molecular signatures in older adults CD8+ T cells across human lifespan
Quick Review of molecular signatures in older adults
From the open article in Nature Immunology
Newborn and child-like molecular signatures in older adults stem from TCR shifts across human lifespan
CD8+ T cells provide antiviral immunity. The study suggests that priming T cells at different stages of life might greatly affect CD8+ T cell responses toward viral infections. They measure Molecular differentiation of A2/M158+CD8+ T cells across human lifespan in four age groups. Note – T cell receptor (TCR)
Why this study is important!
Understanding how we can preserve this delicate balance between expansion of ‘best-fit’ TCRs while maintaining TCR diversity may be the Holy Grail in defining how we can maintain optimal immunity across the human lifespan through vaccination and/or immunotherapies. The quick take away is this will help in treating aging, cancer and viruses in the future.
Note – This journal article requires both a statistical and Immunology background. It is not an easy read. The article is complete many visual graphs and data.