CD4+ T cells and immunosenescence--a mini-review.

Age-related declines in immune function are associated with reduced humoral responses following vaccination or infection. Central to this defect is a decline in naïve CD4+ T cell function. In this review, we discuss factors intrinsic and extrinsic to the CD4+ T cell compartment that affect host immunity and propose means by which deficient CD4+ T cell function can be fully restored in the aged. Copyright 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.