mTOR inhibition improves immune function in the elderly

Researchers gave more than 200 healthy adults aged 65 and older either low-dose everolimus or inactive pills for six weeks. Everolimus blocks mTOR, a cell-growth control system that can become overactive with age. Afterward, participants received a flu vaccine, and researchers measured their antibody response, the body’s defense reaction. Some everolimus groups produced a stronger response than the inactive-pill group, but the treatment also caused side effects and was not tested for longer life.

What this means for you: This is not a reason to buy mTOR-blocking supplements or seek this prescription drug for longevity. It suggests a possible way to improve vaccine responses in older adults, but the study was small, short, and did not show fewer illnesses or longer lives.