Immunological Changes with Age and Innovative Approaches to Bolster Immune Function in Older Adults

Nkiruka R Ukibe¹, Chizoba Rita Dike ¹, A.C. Ihim^1, Ezinne G. Ukibe², Blessing C. Ukibe², Victory Ezennia Ukibe³ and *Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu⁴

¹Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, P. M. B 5025, Anambra State, Nigeria

²Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, P. M. B 5025, Anambra State, Nigeria

³Department of Radiography and Radiological Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, P. M. B 5025, Anambra State, Nigeria

⁴Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Kampala International University, Uganda

^*Corresponding author: Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Kampala International University, Uganda, emmanuelobeagu@yahoo.com, ORCID: 0000-0002-4538-0161

ABSTRACT

Aging is accompanied by a progressive decline in immune function, known as immunosenescence, which renders elderly individuals more susceptible to infections, reduced vaccine efficacy, and increased incidence of autoimmune diseases and cancer. This decline in immunity is characterized by alterations in both innate and adaptive immune responses, including reduced T-cell diversity, impaired function of antigen-presenting cells, and dysregulated cytokine production. Additionally, inflammaging, a chronic low-grade inflammatory state, further contributes to age-related immune dysfunction. Strategies aimed at enhancing immunity in aging individuals have garnered significant attention. Promising interventions include lifestyle modifications encompassing regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, which can positively impact immune function. Furthermore, vaccination strategies tailored for the elderly, such as high-dose vaccines or adjuvanted formulations, aim to bolster vaccine efficacy. Immunomodulatory therapies, including supplementation with specific micronutrients and pharmacological interventions targeting immune senescence, hold promise for rejuvenating immune responses in older individuals. Understanding the mechanisms underlying immunosenescence and inflammaging is critical in developing targeted approaches to enhance immunity in aging populations. A holistic approach combining lifestyle interventions, vaccination strategies, and innovative immunomodulatory therapies holds potential for mitigating the impact of age-related immune decline and improving overall healthspan in the elderly.

Keywords: Immunosenescence, Aging, Immunity, Inflammaging, Elderly, Immunomodulation, Vaccination Strategies, Immune Rejuvenation, Geriatrics

CITE AS:  Nkiruka R Ukibe, Chizoba Rita Dike, A.C. Ihim, Ezinne G. Ukibe, Blessing C. Ukibe, Victory Ezennia Ukibe and Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu (2024). Immunological Changes with Age and Innovative Approaches to Bolster Immune Function in Older Adults. IDOSR JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH 9(1) 1-11. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSRJSR/2024/1.1.11.100