A comparative review of aging and B cell function in mice and humans

Abstract

Immune system function declines with age. Here we review and compare age-associated changes in murine and human B cell pools and humoral immune responses. We summarize changes in B cell generation and homeostasis, as well as notable changes at the subcellular level; then discuss how these changes help to explain alterations in immune responses across the adult lifespan of the animal. In each section we compare and contrast findings in the mouse, arguably the best animal model of the aging immune system, with current understanding of B cell immunity in humans.