Molecular and cellular aspects of macrophage aging

Abstract

Macrophages are key cells in innate and adaptive immune function. These cells are involved in the destruction of bacteria, parasites, viruses and tumor cells and lead to the initiation of the inflammatory process. In addition, macrophages are responsible for processing antigens and presenting digested peptides to T-lymphocytes initiating the adaptive immune response. Finally, macrophages participate in the resolution of the inflammatory process by promoting tissue repair. Macrophage functions are affected by aging, thereby contributing to the immunosenescence of adaptive and innate immunity. Here, we summarize data about the effects of aging on macrophages and we discuss the molecular events that could be involved in this process.