Characterization of neutralizing versus binding antibody and T cell responses to varicella-zoster virus in the elderly.

Suthee Mangmee, Supasek Kardkarnklai, Suphanun Phuphanitcharoenkun, Sarocha Suthisawat, Oranit Li-Khit, Nattaya Kamchompoo, Rae Apaivongse Coad, Patimaporn Wongprompitak, Jarupa Soongsathitanon, Tararaj Dharakul, Kamol Suwannakarn, Chutikarn Chaimayo, Weerasak Muangpaisan, Somboon Intalapaporn, Prasert Assantachai, Kobporn Boonnak

Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

Age-related immune changes increase the risk of herpes zoster (HZ) caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivation. Understanding immune responses to VZV is crucial for reducing the burden of HZ in aging populations. Due to the limited availability of data regarding the VZV immune profiles of elderly individuals, particularly in developing countries, more comprehensive immunological investigations are warranted. A total of 213 participants aged ≥ 60 years were included in this study. VZV-neutralizing antibodies (NAb) and glycoprotein-binding antibodies (BAb) were quantified. Furthermore, VZV-specific T cell subsets and their functionality were evaluated using flow cytometry. Elderly individuals demonstrated a high VZV seropositivity rate of 98.6%, exceeding that of the younger adults. Interestingly, VZV-BAb increased, whereas the proportion of NAb decreased with age, with a significantly lower proportion in the elderly aged ≥ 70 years. The elderly showed decreased naïve T cells and accumulated VZV-specific aged T cells; central memory and effector memory CD4

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Research summary

The study characterizes immune responses to varicella-zoster virus in the elderly. Understanding immune changes in aging populations is crucial for addressing age-related diseases and improving health outcomes in longevity.

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