Impaired secretion of interferons by dendritic cells from aged subjects to influenza : role of histone modifications.

ABSTRACT: Increased susceptibility to respiratory infections such as influenza is the hallmark of advancing age. The mechanisms underlying the impaired immune response to influenza are not well understood. In the present study, we have investigated the effect of advancing age on dendritic cell (DC) function because they are critical in generating robust antiviral responses. Our results indicate that monocyte derived DCs from the aged are impaired in their capacity to secrete interferon (IFN)-I in response to influenza virus. Additionally, we observed a severe reduction in the production of IFN-III, which plays an important role in defense against viral infections at respiratory mucosal surfaces. This reduction in IFN-I and IFN-III were a result of age-associated modifications in the chromatin struct

SUBMITTER: Prakash S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3776111 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature