Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry · Published 2026-02-09 · DOI 10.33594/000000848
A strong yet appropriate immune response is essential for the timely control and clearing of respiratory viral infections. However, as physical condition declines with age, so does our immune function. Immunosenescence is an age-related immune dysfunction marked by dysregulation of innate immune pathways, thymic involution, decreased T and B cell numbers and function, altered metabolism, and epigenetic changes. Additionally, older individuals often develop inflammaging, a condition characterized by elevated levels of proinflammatory markers. This deterioration of immune function in older adults significantly impairs viral control and increases disease severity. Studies unanimously show a progressive rise in hospitalization and mortality rates with age. In this review, we aim to discuss the complex relationship between aging, immunosenescence, and inflammaging during respiratory viral infections. Furthermore, this review discusses the underlying mechanisms that increase susceptibility, disease severity, and higher hospitalization rates among older adults.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
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