Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Rejuvenation of the Aging Immune System

Int J Mol Sci. 2021 May 27;22(11):5749. doi: 10.3390/ijms22115749.

Abstract

Rapid growth of the geriatric population has been made possible with advancements in pharmaceutical and health sciences. Hence, age-associated diseases are becoming more common. Aging encompasses deterioration of the immune system, known as immunosenescence. Dysregulation of the immune cell production, differentiation, and functioning lead to a chronic subclinical inflammatory state termed inflammaging. The hallmarks of the aging immune system are decreased naïve cells, increased memory cells, and increased serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation is a promising solution to halt immunosenescence as the cells have excellent immunomodulatory functions and low immunogenicity. This review compiles the present knowledge of the causes and changes of the aging immune system and the potential of MSC transplantation as a regenerative therapy for immunosenescence.

Keywords: aging; frailty; immune system; inflammaging; mesenchymal stem cells.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptive Immunity
  • Aging / genetics
  • Aging / immunology*
  • Animals
  • Biomarkers
  • Cell- and Tissue-Based Therapy
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Immune System / immunology*
  • Immune System / metabolism*
  • Immunity, Innate
  • Immunosenescence* / genetics
  • Immunosenescence* / immunology
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation / methods
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism
  • Rejuvenation*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Reactive Oxygen Species