Human B Cell Senescence in Pulmonary Infections

Vaccinations are powerful tools to help prevent/minimize the consequences of infections. Currently available vaccines are protecting only part of the human population because of the age-related decrease in immune functions. Vaccination against Streptococcus pneumoniae and influenza are strongly recommended in children under 2 years of age and individuals over 65 years of age to protect them from infection. However, although commercially available vaccines against these infectious diseases provide protection and ensure lasting immunological memory in children and adults, they are much less effective in elderly individuals. The mechanisms for the reduced response of the elderly to pneumococcal and influenza vaccines are discussed in this review from the perspective of deficiencies seen in B cell function with age.