International Journal of Gerontology
Volume 1, Issue 2 , Pages 65-76, June 2007

NK/NKT Cells and Aging

  • Yu-Jen Chen

      Affiliations

    • Department of Radiation Oncology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
    • ,
  • Hui-Fen Liao

      Affiliations

    • Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, National Chiayi University, Chiayi, Taiwan
    • Corresponding Author InformationCorrespondence to: Dr Hui-Fen Liao, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, National Chiayi University, 300 University Road, Chiayi 600, Taiwan

Accepted 20 December 2006.

SUMMARY 

Aging involves a complex physiologic process including a decline of immune function that may contribute to morbidity and mortality due to increased susceptibility to infection, cancer, and other immune-related dis-eases. Natural killer (NK) and natural killer T (NKT) cells play an important role in regulating innate and adaptive immune response, their cytotoxicity being effective to kill infected cells and even tumors. Age-related alterations of NK and NKT cells in their numbers and activities have been reported, with significant association with infection control and life satisfaction in the elderly. This review introduces NK/NKT cells and aging and discusses the correlation between these cells and aging. Finally, potential therapeutic strategies and nutrients in regulating NK/NKT cells and aging are described for the control of immune response, for healthy aging and longevity.

Key Words:  aging , immune , NK cells , NKT cells

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PII: S1873-9598(08)70025-5

doi:10.1016/S1873-9598(08)70025-5

International Journal of Gerontology
Volume 1, Issue 2 , Pages 65-76, June 2007

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