The immune system starts to become weak around the age of 60 years through a process known as immunosenescence. It is estimated that 2 billion people will have an age of over 60 by 2050 [1], and therefore, would be affected by immunosenescence. What Is Immunosenescence? Immunosenescence is the process of aging of our immune…
The growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) or bone morphogenetic protein 11 (BMP-11) is a protein that belongs to the transforming growth factor-beta family (TGF-b) that is involved in cell proliferation and differentiation, wound healing, and the immune system [1]. GDF11 has been proposed as a rejuvenating factor as it was reported that it restores skeletal…
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) is an illness characterized by profound disabling tiredness, a diminished capacity to perform routine tasks, and sleep disruption that lasts for more than 6 months. Epidemiology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Based on prevalence estimates from the institute of medicine, chronic fatigue syndrome affects around 0.2-2.6% of the…
Zinc is an essential mineral that is naturally present in a wide variety of food from plant and animal origins. It plays an important role in growth and development, taste, smell, wound healing, immune function, protein synthesis, and the maintenance of skin and hair. Deficiency in zinc is common in older people and is associated…
Prolonged stress or chronic stress promotes susceptibility to diseases and infections such as sepsis, endocarditis, respiratory viral infections, meningitis, and other central nervous system infections. This type of stress significantly affects the immune system by raising the levels of catecholamine (adrenaline and dopamine), glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol), and suppressor T cells, which suppress the immune…
The gut flora is a heterogeneous population of micro-organisms that includes bacteria, fungi, and archaea, and that plays important role in the digestion and absorbance of food. Transplantation of fecal microbiota from younger mice (Donor) to older (Recipient) enhanced their health and lifespan (longevity). During the process of aging, the function of beneficial microbes, that…
