Molecular mechanisms underlying impaired antiviral cytotoxic T cell responses in old age

The world´s population, including Estonia, is aging, which can create specific challenges and burdens on the healthcare system. Age-related impairment of immune responses leads to increased susceptibility to infections in older people, especially to new and emerging pathogens such as the current COVID-19 causing SARS-CoV-2 virus. In this project I will study in-depth the intrinsic properties of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells from older individuals and assess why their activation capacity to different viruses (influenza, SARS-CoV-2) declines. The results from this project will allow us to better predict to what degree vaccination can offer protection to older individuals, which is particularly relevant in the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Furthermore, the obtained data will be used to develop new strategies to boost vaccine efficacy and the aging immune system, and has the potential to influence public policy and healthcare priorities that can directly impact Estonia`s aging society.