Immunoadolescence: Dynamics of the Immune System during Adolescence

Abstract

Over the years, the immune system has been extensively studied in relation to various diseases, generating a substantial body of data on both adults and children. Unexpectedly, data on its dynamics and responses across different age groups, particularly in adolescents transitioning from childhood to adulthood, remain limited. Detailed understanding of the immune response in this transition phase is of clinical importance as it coincides with a period marked by hormonal changes, particularly the rise in sex hormones like oestrogen and testosterone, which impact immune function and overall health. The immune response during adolescence, termed immunoadolescence, is discussed in this review article as increased knowledge about immunoadolescence may facilitate the development of new personalised and adolescent specific diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions.