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25.06.2026 13:42
Spermidin: A Potential Ally for Vaccine Responses in the Elderly
Recent research suggests that spermidine, a natural compound, could enhance vaccine responses in older individuals, addressing the decline in immune efficiency associated with aging. This promising finding was reported by Katja Simon and her colleagues in the journal “Aging Cell.”
The Aging Immune System
As we age, our immune system weakens, leading to reduced reactions to infections and vaccinations. This phenomenon, known as immunosenescence, is a significant factor contributing to the increased susceptibility of older adults to severe illnesses.
Research led by Professor Katja Simon at the Max Delbrück Center and Professor Ghada Alsaleh from the University of Oxford has indicated that the daily intake of spermidine might boost the immune response following COVID-19 vaccinations.
What is Spermidine?
Spermidine is a naturally occurring molecule produced by our cells and found in certain foods such as wheat germ, mushrooms, and aged cheeses like Parmesan. Emerging studies have highlighted its potential role in cellular maintenance processes that decline with age.
Evidence from Recent Studies
In their study, which involved 40 healthy adults aged 65 and older, Simon and her team observed that a quarter of participants had weak antibody responses despite receiving three COVID-19 vaccinations. These individuals displayed signs of biological aging in their immune cells, including increased DNA damage.
However, those who supplemented their diets with spermidine for 13 weeks showed a significant increase in vaccine-induced immunity, exhibiting higher concentrations of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 and improved neutralizing activity against various variants.
Mechanisms Behind Spermidine’s Effects
Further analysis revealed that spermidine reduced markers associated with immune senescence and stimulated autophagy—a cellular recycling process that maintains cell health by removing damaged components. Notably, the dietary supplement was found to be safe and well-tolerated, with no reported side effects.
Implications for Vaccination in Older Adults
Given the serious impact of COVID-19 on older populations, understanding and improving their vaccine efficacy is crucial. Current findings suggest that spermidine could offer a viable strategy to help restore aspects of immune function diminished with age. As noted by Alsaleh, while many older adults respond well to vaccines, some do not achieve strong protective immunity even after repeated doses. The biological aging of their immune cells could be a key factor.
Future research, as Simon emphasizes, is necessary to determine the full potential of spermidine in enhancing vaccine responses, particularly for other vaccinations such as those for seasonal flu.
Conclusion
In summary, the emerging evidence regarding spermidine’s role in bolstering immune responses in older adults is promising and adds a new dimension to the field of vaccine immunology. As researchers continue to explore this natural compound’s effects, there is hope that spermidine could become an essential tool in improving health outcomes for the aging population.
Max Delbrück Center
The Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine lays the groundwork for tomorrow’s medicine, focusing on the complexity of diseases at the system level, facilitating the transition from biological insights to practical applications.
Scientific Contact:
Professor Katja Simon
Head of the “Cell Biology of Immunity” Research Group
Max Delbrück Center
[email protected]
Original Publication:
Ghada Alsaleh, et al. (2026): “Spermidine Mitigates Immune Cell Senescence and Boosts Vaccine Responses in Healthy Older Adults — A Pilot Study.” Aging Cell, DOI: 10.1111/acel.70545
More Information:
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NDORMS University of Oxford
– AG Simon
– Portrait of Katja Simon
– How vaccines can better protect the elderly
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Journalists
Medicine
National relevance
Research results
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