Aging is a major risk factor for many diseases, and higher incidences of infectious diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes accompany the aged. A unifying theme among these diseases is the loss of immune function with age, termed as ‘immunesenescence’, which has been associated with increased susceptibility to infection and decreased responsiveness to vaccination and other therapies.

It is apparent that the pathways involved in metabolism, autophagy and mitochondrial homeostasis play a crucial role in aging. However, the contribution of these pathways to immune function is less understood. By studying the molecular links between longevity pathways and immune responses we hope to decipher the molecular mechanisms leading to immunesenescence.