Open Longevity Science

2012, 6 : 47-55
Published online 2012 June 29. DOI: 10.2174/1876326X01206010047
Publisher ID: TOLSJ-6-47

Human B Cell Senescence in Pulmonary Infections

Bonnie B. Blomberg , Daniela Frasca and Deborah Dunn-Walters
Department of Microbiology and Immunology RMSB #3146A, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine P.O. Box 016960 (R-138), Miami FL 33101, USA.

ABSTRACT

Vaccinations are powerful tools to help prevent/minimize the consequences of infections. Currently available vaccines are protecting only part of the human population because of the age-related decrease in immune functions. Vac-cination against Streptococcus pneumoniae and influenza are strongly recommended in children under 2 years of age and individuals over 65 years of age to protect them from infection. However, although commercially available vaccines against these infectious diseases provide protection and ensure lasting immunological memory in children and adults, they are much less effective in elderly individuals. The mechanisms for the reduced response of the elderly to pneumococcal and influenza vaccines are discussed in this review from the perspective of deficiencies seen in B cell function with age.

Keywords:

Ageing, B cells, Pneumococcus, Influenza.