A decline in a naturally occurring protein called platelet factor 4 may contribute to the aging of the immune system, according to research from the University of Illinois Chicago. The study, published December 31, 2025, suggests that this protein's reduction over time allows blood stem cells to multiply excessively, leading to potentially harmful mutations associated with cancer, inflammation, and heart disease.
Researchers discovered that restoring platelet factor 4 in older mice and human stem cells in a laboratory setting rejuvenated aging blood and immune cells. The findings offer a potential explanation for why the immune system weakens with age and suggest possibilities for reversing this process.
As individuals age, the stem cells responsible for producing blood and immune cells can accumulate genetic mutations, increasing the risk of various health problems. The study indicates that platelet factor 4 plays a crucial role in regulating these stem cells. "Our research suggests that maintaining adequate levels of platelet factor 4 could be a key factor in preserving immune function as we age," said Dr. Emily Carter, lead author of the study and professor of immunology at the University of Illinois Chicago.
The research team observed that restoring platelet factor 4 in older mice led to a decrease in the number of mutated stem cells and an improvement in overall immune function. Similar results were observed when the protein was introduced to human stem cells in vitro.
Platelet factor 4 is a small protein released by platelets, which are blood cells involved in clotting. It is known to have anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. The study highlights a previously unknown role for the protein in regulating blood stem cell behavior.
"This is a significant step forward in understanding the complexities of immune aging," commented Dr. David Lee, an independent expert in hematology at Johns Hopkins University, who was not involved in the study. "While further research is needed, these findings could potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing age-related immune decline and associated diseases."
The researchers are now focusing on developing methods to safely and effectively increase platelet factor 4 levels in humans. They are also investigating the potential of using the protein as a biomarker to identify individuals at risk of age-related immune dysfunction. The next phase of research will involve clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy of platelet factor 4-based interventions in older adults.
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Research indicates that a decline in the protein platelet factor 4 contributes to immune system aging by causing blood stem cells to multiply excessively and become prone to mutations linked to diseases. Restoring platelet factor 4 in studies involving older mice and human stem cells rejuvenated aging blood and immune cells, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for age-related immune decline. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining healthy protein levels for a robust immune response as we age.
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