PEPITEM — a naturally occurring peptide — has been proven to boost the immune response in the elderly, while also reducing age-related inflammation, according to a novel study.
The trial, which is available in npj Aging, suggests that the protective peptide could dampen age-related inflammation and optimise immune function in older adults.
PEPITEM, or Peptide Inhibitor of Trans-Endothelial Migration, was originally identified by the University of Birmingham, and has been previously proven to modulate immune-mediated diseases.
PEPITEM for the effective modulation of age-related immune dysfunction
During the trial period, researchers utilised an animal model to monitor the extent to which PEPITEM influences white blood cell trafficking — a key process in the age-related inflammatory response.
The team at the University of Birmingham found that older mice exhibited a significantly larger immune cell trafficking response, which resulted in inflammation in the body.
They also found that this could be reduced by administering PEPITEM, meaning the peptide can work through the modulation of immune cell signalling pathways to dampen ‘inflammaging’ — the increase in inflammation associated with the natural ageing process.
Dr Myriam Chimen, the lead author of this study, commented: ”We have shown an age-related decline in the PEPITEM-adiponectin pathway and demonstrated the influence this has on T-cell trafficking, as seen in inflammageing. These truly exciting results raise the possibility of developing a geroprotective agent that not only reduces excessive inflammation in old age but also supports good immune function in older people."
University of Birmingham Enterprise has filed several patent families related to PEPITEM and the components of the PEPITEM molecule responsible for maintaining a normal immune response.