Journal September 25, 2026 3 min read

Common misconceptions about immunosenescence

Immunosenescence is the age-related decline in immune function, but several misconceptions persist. This article examines the evidence on thymic involution, chronic inflammation, and interventions studied in preclinical

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What is immunosenescence?

Immunosenescence is the formal term for the age-associated deterioration of the immune system. It is also referred to as age-related immune decline. This process involves both innate and adaptive immunity and is characterized by thymic involution, chronic low-grade inflammation, telomere shortening, and the expansion of senescent immune cell subsets [1].

Research on immunosenescence centers on the thymus and its role in T-cell production, as well as on inflammatory pathways that become dysregulated with age [2].

Research Studies

Thymosin alpha-1 and thymic output in aging

Thymosin alpha-1 (Tα1) is a peptide hormone produced by the thymus. Preclinical and clinical studies have investigated its ability to stimulate T-cell differentiation, enhance thymic output, and modulate dendritic cell and macrophage activity. In elderly populations, Tα1 has been reported to improve vaccine response and mitigate immunosenescence [2].

Thymosin alpha-1 and immunosenescence in early-stage NSCLC

A clinical trial is exploring the effect of Tα1 on postoperative peripheral blood circulating tumor cells and immunosenescence in patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) [4]. This study focuses on a specific cancer population and surgical context.

Nicotinamide mononucleotide and immunosenescence in metabolic disorders

A placebo-controlled clinical trial is investigating the impact of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) sustained-release tablets on immunosenescence in middle-aged and elderly individuals with metabolic disorders. The study also assesses effects on glucose and lipid metabolism [3].

Alpha-ketoglutarate and surgical stress in older patients

The AEGIS trial is examining alpha-ketoglutarate for geroprotection in older patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). CABG triggers a massive surgical stress response, including a 33-fold increase in epinephrine and a 3-fold increase in norepinephrine, which may exacerbate immunosenescence [5].

Taxifolin and ergothioneine on immune biomarkers in healthy volunteers

A study is measuring the impact of dietary interventions with taxifolin and ergothioneine on immune function in healthy volunteers. The trial acknowledges the challenge of assessing immune changes in response to diet and focuses on age-related immune decline [6].

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and immunosenescence in menopause

Research has explored the role of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) in anti-aging effects, particularly in the context of menopause. Menopause is associated with estrogen depletion and increased susceptibility to age-associated disorders, including immunosenescence [7].

Bone immunity and immunosenescence in bone metabolism

Studies have investigated the interplay between immune cells and bone metabolism. Disruption of this regulation by aging or inflammation contributes to pathological bone diseases such as osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis [8].

NMN co-treatment with hUC-MSCs in aging models

Preclinical research in D-galactose-induced aging mice and cellular senescence models has explored enhancing the anti-ageing capacity of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) via NMN co-treatment. The aging microenvironment can impair transplanted hUC-MSCs, and this combination aims to delay immunosenescence [9].

Irisin and immunosenescence in sepsis

Irisin, a muscle-secreted myokine induced by exercise, has been studied as a molecular bridge between muscle activity and the immune system. In aging, irisin may modulate the transition toward immunosenescence and influence vulnerability to acute systemic inflammation [10].

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