Final answer:
The concept of immunosenescence describes the preset decline of the immune system due to an age-related internal biological clock. Thymic involution, problems with circadian rhythms, and factors causing immunosuppression all play a part in this process of immune decline.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the concept of immunosenescence, the immune system is preset to decline by an internal biological clock. Immunosenscence is the decrease in immune function that happens as part of the aging process. A significant factor in this is thymic involution, the shrinking of the thymus gland which starts at birth and continues throughout one's life. This gland's atrophy leads to less production of thymocytes over time, affecting immunity. Furthermore, problems with circadian rhythms can also impact immune function, with substances like melatonin, which is released during sleep, contributing to regulation of the immune system. Additionally, other factors such as immunosuppression or reduced effectiveness of the immune system due to factors like stress or disease also play a role in age-related immune decline.
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