Role of regulatory subsets during aging

Abstract

Efficient immune response requires both vigorous effector responses and regulation via regulatory subsets. Any disturbances in the balance between these two opposite activities of immune system result in either autoimmunity or excessive immunosuppression. Undoubtedly immunosenescence contributes to this balance as it affects the majority of populations taking part in immune response. This chapter describes activities of regulatory subsets, alterations associated with their ageing and clinical consequences of these changes.