Scientists at Sirius University of Science and Technology are working on developing a vaccine to extend the active lifespan of the elderly, which will serve as a stimulant for adaptive immunity. According to the innovators, one of the main factors contributing to the development of age-related diseases is a weakened immune system. This weakness leads to prolonged inflammation, and in addition, the body loses its ability to eliminate senescent cells that have poor metabolism. These cells are incapable of division, resistant to programmed cell death, and tend to produce inflammatory factors. Therefore, their accumulation in the body is associated with dysfunction of organs and tissues, as well as chronic diseases that increase with age. Researchers indicate that in order to remove these cells from the body, it is necessary to find a molecular target or marker that allows the drug to identify and affect them.
Experts at the university's Center for Translational Medicine have begun exploring the potential use of T-cells in combating senescent cells. They are looking for a universal marker that allows for direct targeting of these cells. The results of this work will form the basis for developing vaccination methods against senescent cell antigens and other similar approaches. Daniel Shiferiev, the lead researcher in the university's Medical Biotechnology Department, states, "The approach that our team is developing differs from global trends in that its essence is restoring the body's ability to remove old cells from tissues. To achieve this, we plan to use adaptive immune mechanisms and how to assist the immune system in removing these cells as occurs in youth." According to him, of course, this is a complex issue and task, as there are many obstacles and pitfalls ahead, but even partially solving this issue will open the door to developing personalized possibilities for extending healthy aging.
