Neutrophils in aging and aging-related pathologies

Immunol Rev. 2023 Mar;314(1):357-375. doi: 10.1111/imr.13153. Epub 2022 Oct 31.

Abstract

Over the past millennia, life expectancy has drastically increased. While a mere 25 years during Bronze and Iron ages, life expectancy in many European countries and in Japan is currently above 80 years. Such an increase in life expectancy is a result of improved diet, life style, and medical care. Yet, increased life span and aging also represent the most important non-modifiable risk factors for several pathologies including cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. In recent years, neutrophils have been implicated in all of these pathologies. Hence, this review provides an overview of how aging impacts neutrophil production and function and conversely how neutrophils drive aging-associated pathologies. Finally, we provide a perspective on how processes of neutrophil-driven pathologies in the context of aging can be targeted therapeutically.

Keywords: aging; cancer; inflammation; myocardial infarction; neutrophil; stroke.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aging*
  • Humans
  • Life Expectancy
  • Longevity
  • Neutrophils*
  • Risk Factors