The role of CMV-infection in age-related hyporesponsiveness to influenza vaccination.

It is expected that worldwide in fewer than 10 years the population over the age of 65 will outnumber the population of children under the age of 5 for the first time in history. While it is generally accepted that ageing is associated with immune dysfunction and dysregulation (i.e. immunosenescence), it has been suggested that this immune deterioration might be correlated with persistent cytomegalovirus infection (CMV). We investigate the association between persistent CMV infection and immunosenescence in frail elderly living in nursing homes focusing on the humoral and cellular responsiveness to influenza vaccination. Results will be compared with findings in community-dwelling age-mates through a collaborative project. As outcome of this research we expect to identify yet unknown mechanisms involved in immunosenescence and to unravel its association with CMV infection. This knowledge will ultimately contribute to new prevention strategies which might include pre-vaccinationscreening, aiming a more effective response in an individual whose immune system is in decline.

Keywords:CLINICAL RESEARCH, INFLUENZA

Disciplines:Public health care, Public health sciences, Public health services

Project type:Collaboration project