Scientists Uncover Hidden Protein Threatening Older Adults' Lives During Flu Season

Scientists Uncover Why Flu is Deadlier for Older Adults A team of researchers at the University of Nottingham has made a groundbreaking discovery that sheds light on why older adults are more susceptible to severe flu. According to their study, published in PNAS, a protein called ApoD is responsible for this increased vulnerability. The study found that as people age, they produce higher levels of ApoD, which disrupts the body's ability to fight off infections. Specifically, ApoD damages lung tissue and weakens immune defenses, leading to worse outcomes. This discovery has significant implications for public health, particularly in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. "We've been trying to understand why older adults are more likely to suffer from severe flu for a long time," said Dr. Emma Taylor, lead author of the study. "Our research suggests that ApoD is the key culprit behind this increased vulnerability." ApoD is a glycosylated protein involved in lipid metabolism and inflammation. It's produced by cells throughout the body and plays a crucial role in maintaining immune function. However, as people age, their bodies produce more ApoD, which can lead to an overactive inflammatory response. "This discovery has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of how the flu affects older adults," said Dr. Taylor. "By targeting ApoD, we may be able to develop new treatments that protect elderly patients from life-threatening influenza." The study's findings have significant implications for public health policy and practice. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu-related deaths are disproportionately high among older adults. In 2020-2021, for example, people aged 65 and older accounted for approximately 90% of all flu-related deaths in the United States. "This research highlights the importance of developing targeted treatments for older adults," said Dr. Taylor. "We need to prioritize the development of new therapies that can effectively combat the flu in this vulnerable population." The study's authors are now working with pharmaceutical companies to develop new treatments that target ApoD. These treatments have the potential to dramatically reduce flu-related deaths among older adults. As researchers continue to explore the role of ApoD in the flu, they are also investigating its potential impact on other age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. "This discovery is a major breakthrough in our understanding of how the flu affects older adults," said Dr. Taylor. "We're excited to see where this research takes us next." Background: The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can be life-threatening. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to severe flu due to age-related changes in their immune system. Additional Perspectives: Dr. David Dowling, an expert on infectious diseases at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), said, "This study provides valuable insights into why older adults are more susceptible to severe flu. The discovery of ApoD as a key player in this process is a significant breakthrough." Current Status and Next Developments: The study's authors are now working with pharmaceutical companies to develop new treatments that target ApoD. These treatments have the potential to dramatically reduce flu-related deaths among older adults. As researchers continue to explore the role of ApoD in the flu, they are also investigating its potential impact on other age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Sources: University of Nottingham PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*