Antibodies accelerate inflammation and aging

Our antibody-producing B cells become less effective as we age. Their number and diversity are decreasing, and their ability to adapt to new infections is decreasing. As a result, the body reacts worse to vaccines and is more likely to experience chronic inflammation.

This is especially noticeable in the example of IgG. These antibodies begin to accumulate next to old and damaged cells, provoking local inflammation. In addition, their structure changes — the level of the so-called “sugar tails” (galactose and sialic acids) decreases, which makes the molecules more rigid and aggressive. Researchers call this process “inflammatory aging,” a constant internal inflammation that accelerates tissue degradation.

It was found that IgG antibodies accumulate not only in the blood, but also in adipose tissue, where they trigger its destruction. This partly explains why the metabolism is disrupted with age. One of the key molecules involved in this process is the FcRn receptor. It prevents the breakdown of IgG, but also promotes their accumulation.

In addition, other antibodies change, such as IgA, which protect the intestines. Their levels are increasing, but they are losing their ability to control the microflora. This leads to an imbalance of the microbiome, weakened immunity and accelerated aging of the mucous membranes.

Experts are already working to reverse these processes. The first animal experiments showed that lowering IgG levels can slow down aging. In other studies, blocking the FcRn receptor with special molecules reduced inflammation in tissues.

Some therapies already used for autoimmune diseases (for example, rituximab, which destroys excess B cells) may become the basis for immune rejuvenation in the future. And new approaches, such as biospecific antibodies and CAR—T therapy, make it possible to target senescent cells and inflammatory processes.

In the future, drugs that regulate the production or structure of antibodies may not just treat diseases, but slow down the aging process itself, prolonging an active, healthy life.