CD28− T cells: their role in the age-associated decline of immune function

N Weng, AN Akbar, J Goronzy - Trends in immunology, 2009 - cell.com
N Weng, AN Akbar, J Goronzy
Trends in immunology, 2009cell.com
The accumulation of CD28− T cells, particularly within the CD8 subset, is one of the most
prominent changes during T-cell homeostasis and function associated with aging in
humans. CD28, a major co-stimulatory receptor, is responsible for the optimal antigen-
mediated T-cell activation, proliferation and survival of T cells. CD28− T cells exhibit reduced
antigen receptor diversity, defective antigen-induced proliferation and a shorter replicative
lifespan while showing enhanced cytotoxicity and regulatory functions. Gene expression …
The accumulation of CD28 T cells, particularly within the CD8 subset, is one of the most prominent changes during T-cell homeostasis and function associated with aging in humans. CD28, a major co-stimulatory receptor, is responsible for the optimal antigen-mediated T-cell activation, proliferation and survival of T cells. CD28 T cells exhibit reduced antigen receptor diversity, defective antigen-induced proliferation and a shorter replicative lifespan while showing enhanced cytotoxicity and regulatory functions. Gene expression analyses reveal profound changes of CD28 T cells in comparison to their CD28+ counterparts and corroborate their functional differences. Here we review recent advances in our understanding of CD28 T cells and their role in the age-associated decline of immune function.
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