Neutrophils in aging and aging-related pathologies

Over the past millennia, life expectancy has drastically increased. While a mere 25 years during Bronze and Iron ages, life expectancy in many European countries and in Japan is currently above 80 years. Such an increase in life expectancy is a result of improved diet, life style, and medical care. Yet, increased life span and aging also represent the most important non-modifiable risk factors for several pathologies including cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. In recent years, neutrophils have been implicated in all of these pathologies. Hence, this review provides an overview of how aging impacts neutrophil production and function and conversely how neutrophils drive aging-associated pathologies. Finally, we provide a perspective on how processes of neutrophil-driven pathologies in the context of aging can be targeted therapeutically.

Automated summary

Life expectancy has significantly increased over the past millennia, thanks to improved diet, lifestyle, and medical care. However, increased lifespan and aging are also major risk factors for various pathologies, including cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Recent research has shown that neutrophils play a crucial role in these pathologies. This review provides an overview of how aging affects neutrophil production and function, and how neutrophils contribute to aging-associated diseases. It also discusses potential therapeutic approaches targeting neutrophil-driven pathologies in the context of aging.