Question

How does the aging process of T-cell activity affect older adults?

a) Increases T-cell activity
b) Decreases T-cell activity
c) Has no impact on T-cell activity
d) Stimulates memory T-cell production

Answer 1

The aging process results in decreased T-cell activity due to thymic involution, leading to weaker immune responses in older adults.

Step-by-step explanation:

The aging process affects T-cell activity in older adults by decreasing T-cell activity. This decline in the immune function, known as immunosenescence, can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, a lower response to vaccinations, and a higher risk of diseases. It is partly a result of thymic involution, which is the shrinking of the thymus gland, where T-cells mature. As we age, thymic involution reduces the production of new T-cells, including both effector T-cells (which are immediate defenders against infections) and memory T-cells. While existing memory T-cells are long-lived and can respond rapidly to previously encountered antigens, the overall capability to mount strong immune responses weakens. The correct answer to the question is b) Decreases T-cell activity.