Team finds way to ‘wake up’ tired immune cells

Researchers at Georgia Tech have discovered a method to revive tired immune cells, similar to a caffeine boost for an overworked system. This breakthrough could enhance the body's defenses against cancer and infections. For years, scientists believed that the immune system naturally weakens with age. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, biomedical engineer Ankur Singh realized the same issue was affecting older adults trying to recover from the virus.

Singh, along with PhD student Zhonghao Dai, set out to address this problem. The team focused on T cells, the immune system's first line of defense against viruses, abnormal cells, and cancer. As people age, they produce fewer new T cells, and older ones become less effective. To tackle this, the researchers delivered biological instructions into T cells using microscopic silicon nanowires.

This method allowed them to reach and interact with over 90% of aging T cells without damaging them. The treatment acts like a reset, helping the cells regain their youthful function. The cells became more active, multiplied, and regained their ability to attack infected and cancerous cells. Singh's team tested the treatment on immune cells from healthy older adults, cancer survivors, and patients with cancer.

They observed improved T cell function across all groups, indicating the potential for broad application. The effects last about two weeks, but the team is working to extend this duration. While aging cannot be reversed, these findings suggest that immune cells may not have to act as feeble as they do in older age. This research, supported by the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the Curci Foundation, and the Carl Ring Family Endowment, marks a significant step forward in immunology.