Supercentenarians have an abundance of cancer-killing immune cells
Researchers have identified that supercentenarians possess a higher proportion of CD4 cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which are specialized immune cells capable of killing tumor cells. This discovery suggests that the immune system continues to adapt and maintain functionality even in extreme old age.
Why it matters
This research provides insights into the biological mechanisms of healthy aging and could inform future cancer therapies or immune-boosting treatments.
edited by Gaby Clark , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Credit: Benoit Vacherie from Pexels The human immune system has specialized cells called CD4 cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CD4 CTLs), which have been shown to kill tumor cells in some cancers. When a person gets sick, these cells multiply in a process called clonal expansion to help fight infection. In a study published in the journal Cell Reports on Aug. 19, researchers show that these immune cells also may play a role in healthy aging among supercentenarians.
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