Age-Related Dynamics and Spectral Characteristics of the TCRβ Repertoire in Healthy Children: Implications for Immune Aging.
Abstract
T-cell receptor (TCR) diversity is crucial for adaptive immunity, yet baseline characterizations in pediatric populations remain sparse. We sequenced the TCRβ chain of 325 healthy Chinese children aged 0-18, categorized into six age groups. We also analyzed cellular composition and TCRβ associations using flow cytometry in 81 of these samples. Our results indicate a decrease in TCRβ diversity with age, characterized by an increase in high-frequency clonotypes and notable changes in CDR3 length and V(D)J gene usage. These changes are influenced by early life vaccinations and antigen exposures. Additionally, we found a significant association between reduced TCRβ diversity and a decrease in CD4
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Research summary
The paper investigates the dynamics of TCRβ repertoire diversity in children and its implications for immune aging, which is relevant to understanding the aging process and immune system changes over time. However, while it provides valuable insights into TCR diversity and its associations with age and vaccinations, the findings are more descriptive and do not directly address root causes of aging or propose mechanisms for lifespan extension. Thus, the impact is solid but limited.
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