Older people have more so-called senescent cells; these are cells that no longer divide and release harmful substances. These cells disrupt the functioning of organs and tissues. In young people, the immune system clears these cells away well, but as we get older, this happens less and less effectively.
Researchers discovered that a specific type of immune cells, the macrophages, are less effective at clearing old and damaged material in older animals. In particular, so-called neutrophils, another type of immune cell, accumulate in organs such as the liver and the heart. By restoring this clearing process, the scientists saw clear improvements in the function of these organs.
This finding stems from research in mice, where stimulating macrophages led to less damage caused by senescent cells. This opens up prospects for future treatments that can help the immune system clear away unnecessary or harmful cells. Such therapies may contribute to slowing down ageing processes.
For people who want to age healthily, it is important to understand that the immune system plays a major role in ageing. Research focused on boosting the body's natural clearance functions offers hope for a better quality of life in later years.
Source: Reason
