Infections by Pathogens in the Elderly Population: Cellular and Molecular Perspectives on Aging

As individuals age, they experience a range of physiological changes that affect the function of various tissues and systems. These changes, including reduced cellular regeneration, altered immune responses, and increased levels of chronic inflammation, collectively contribute to a higher susceptibility to infections. However, in some cases, certain mechanisms may also confer resistance or resilience to disease, creating a complex interplay between aging and infection outcomes. This Research Topic investigates how the aging process shapes host-pathogen interactions, contributing to both increased susceptibility and potential mechanisms of resistance to infections in the elderly. By exploring the cellular and molecular changes that occur with aging across various tissues and systems, this Topic aims to deepen our understanding of the complex dynamics between aging cells and pathogens. It specifically focuses on unravelling the cellular and molecular mechanisms that modulate host response and influence the progression of infections, with an emphasis on long-lived individuals.We welcome the submission of reviews, mini reviews, opinions, perspectives, and original research articles addressing, but not limited to, the following subtopics: • Pathogen-Host Interactions in the Elderly: Research exploring changes in pathogen interactions with aged cells, including factors that increase susceptibility or promote resistance as well as studies providing unique insights into these interactions and underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms by using advanced models like induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and organoids. • Immunosenescence and Infectivity: Studies investigating how aging impacts the immune system and influences host responses to viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. • Chronic Inflammation and Susceptibility: Studies exploring how chronic inflammation ("inflammaging") increases the risk of infectious complications in older populations. • Clinical Aspects and Therapies: Studies analyzing how aging affects the efficacy of antimicrobial therapies, antiviral treatments, and vaccines, while exploring strategies to improve prevention and management of infections in the elderly. Topic editors: Mateus Vidigal de Castro, Fernando Real, Fernando R. Spilki, Juliana Maricato Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/68846/infections-by-pathogens-in-the-elderly-population-cellular-and-molecular-perspectives-on-aging