London, June 29 (QNA) - Scientists from University of Oxford in the UK have discovered that the natural compound spermidine, found in some foods, enhances the immune response to vaccination in some elderly people.
The scientists pointed out that as people age, the immune system gradually loses its effectiveness, a process known as immune senescence. As a result, older adults respond less effectively to vaccines and produce fewer antibodies. Therefore, scientists decided to test whether spermidine, a substance found in lentils, chickpeas, broccoli, mushrooms, and some types of cheese, improves immune system function.
The researchers found that spermidine can reduce signs of immune system aging and activate the natural cellular self-cleaning process, which helps remove damaged components and maintain cell health and activity.
The study included 40 healthy volunteers aged over 65, who had previously received three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Over 13 weeks, some participants took spermidine supplements daily, while the rest received a placebo.
About a quarter of the participants exhibited a very weak immune response to the vaccine, even after receiving three doses. Scientists observed signs of accelerated aging in the immune cells of these individuals. However, after taking spermidine, both antibody levels against the coronavirus and B cell function improved, enhancing the immune system's ability to neutralize various strains of the virus. (QNA)