A recent study by University of Zurich (UZH) and the University Hospital Zurich (USZ), published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine, has found that certain individuals may be susceptible to viral infections due to the presence of autoantibodies against type 1 interferons.
Type 1 interferons important in defense against viruses
Type 1 interferons play a crucial role in immune response by signaling uninfected cells to prepare defenses against viruses. However, approximately 2% of the population develops autoantibodies against these interferons later in life, which disrupts their function. This impairment can lead to severe viral infections, as evidenced by the higher incidence of severe COVID-19 cases among individuals with compromised type 1 interferon systems.
The research team, led by Benjamin Hale from UZH, utilized samples from the Swiss HIV Cohort Study, examining blood samples collected longitudinally over decades. This unique biobank allowed them to track the development and persistence of autoantibodies across approximately 2,000 adults. The study revealed that autoantibodies typically appear between ages 60 to 65, indicating a correlation with aging.
Moreover, the presence of these autoantibodies was linked to a broader phenomenon of self-tolerance loss, where individuals prone to autoantibody production may target their proteins. This finding suggests a complex interplay of aging and immune response, potentially exacerbated by high interferon levels during infections.
Individuals with autoantibodies against Type 1 interferons at risk
The implications suggest lifelong consequences for individuals with autoantibodies against type 1 interferons. Even those who developed these antibodies decades ago remained at heightened risk for severe viral infections, underscoring the need for future diagnostic tools to identify and mitigate this risk. Such advancements could enable targeted interventions, such as prioritizing affected individuals for vaccines or antivirals, thereby bolstering their immune defenses against viral threats.
Therefore, study not only sheds light on the mechanisms underlying susceptibility to viral infections among aging populations but also paves the way for proactive healthcare strategies aimed at enhancing immune resilience in vulnerable individuals. By understanding and addressing these risk factors, medical professionals may mitigate the impact of autoantibodies against type 1 interferons and improve outcomes for individuals facing viral challenges.
