Flu Deaths in Seniors: Causes and Scientific Breakthroughs
- A new study published in PNAS reveals that older adults produce considerably higher levels of a protein called apolipoprotein D (ApoD) compared too younger individuals.This increased ApoD production...
- Researchers found that elevated ApoD levels in the lungs contribute to extensive tissue damage during infection.
- Specifically, ApoD triggers increased breakdown of mitochondria (a process called mitophagy).
New Study Identifies Key Factor in Severe Flu Cases among the Elderly
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the Link Between Aging and Flu Severity
A new study published in PNAS reveals that older adults produce considerably higher levels of a protein called apolipoprotein D (ApoD) compared too younger individuals.This increased ApoD production appears to weaken the body’s ability to fight off influenza viruses, leading to more severe illness. The research, conducted by an international team, offers a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
How ApoD Impairs the Immune Response
Researchers found that elevated ApoD levels in the lungs contribute to extensive tissue damage during infection. Critically, this damage suppresses the protective antiviral response known as type I interferon.The study utilized an aging-mouse model and human tissue samples to demonstrate this mechanism.
Specifically, ApoD triggers increased breakdown of mitochondria (a process called mitophagy). Mitochondria are vital for cellular energy production and the signaling that activates protective interferons.By disrupting mitochondrial function, apod hinders the immune system’s ability to combat the virus, resulting in greater viral load and lung damage.
International Collaboration and Key Researchers
The research was a collaborative effort involving scientists from the China Agricultural University, University of Nottingham, Institute of Microbiology (Chinese Academy of Sciences), National Institute for viral Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention), and the University of Edinburgh.
Therapeutic Implications and Future Research
the findings suggest that targeting ApoD could be a promising strategy to reduce the severity of influenza infections in older adults.inhibiting ApoD could potentially lessen morbidity and mortality associated with the flu in this vulnerable population.
Professor Chang added, “There is now an exciting opportunity to therapeutically ameliorate disease severity of the elderly from influenza virus infection by the inhibitory targeting of ApoD.”