Preventing or reversing immunosenescence: can exercise be an immunotherapy?

Abstract

There is now a strong body of evidence demonstrating that aging is accompanied by severe alterations in the immune system, a process known as immunosenescence. Among these changes are alterations in T-cell subpopulation size, cytokine secretion pattern, cell replicative capacity and antibody production, all of which culminate in a proinflammatory state called ‘inflammaging’ and a diminished capacity to respond to new antigens. These alterations are closely related to the increased mortality and morbidity rates observed in this population. However, the role of exercise on the prevention or treatment of immunosenescence is virtually unknown. Data gathered from the literature regarding the effects of physical activity on immune system aging are still limited and conflicting, with existing reports either advocating benefits or asserting a lack of evidence. Exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle has already been shown to provide long-term benefits with regard to cardiovascular, cognitive, psychosocial and other aspects of the elderly. If positive effects are also observed for immunosenescence, exercise could be a highly cost-effective measure to improve human quality of life compared with other strategies currently being pursued.