Frequent deaths among older people in the flu season caused by the body’s immune response to the influenza virus that destroys the internal organs. With such a statement was made by a group of American scientists. With the study can be found in in the journal Science.
The American scientists led by Akiko Iwasaki, professor of immunobiology Howard Hughes Medical Institute, found that the negative impact on the body of the elderly has not replication (reproduction) of the virus and destructive the strength of the immune system itself. The researchers discovered that the release of interferon (key proteins released by the body in response to the invading virus) is substantially reduced in old age. “This shows that the elderly may be more susceptible to the flu because their body can not react to the virus,” – said Iwasaki. To prove their hypothesis, the researchers conducted in mice experience, which for the purpose of the experiment specifically reduced immunity to levels that were peculiar to the elderly. In particular, they blocked the genes that enable the immune system to detect influenza virus that enables the virus to multiply unchecked. Scientists have determined that more damage causes the body’s response. “The answer of the organism” includes neutrophils, or white blood cells that fight infection. They are activated inflammosomami (specific protein complex, which leads to an inflammatory reaction run) protein complex in particular macrophages and neutrophils. Fighting the virus, neutrophils destroy tissue in the lungs.
The discovery will allow to develop new strategies in the fight against influenza. “Instead of trying to block the replication of the virus, we must pay attention to the immune cells that destroy the lungs.” a new generation of drugs that are tailored to the study, to help improve and enhance the immune capabilities of elderly people.
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