Immunosenescence represents one of the critical aging factors leading to an increased vulnerability to infections, cancer and autoimmune diseases. In our planned research, we will focus on the analysis of the aging immune system of a unique long-lived rodent, Blind Mole Rat (Spalax). Spalax may live up to 20 years vs. 2- 3 years for mice and rats, and is highly resistant to cancer. Recently, we have demonstrated that for Spalax, the T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire diversity remains stable with age in contrast to a significant decrease that is typical for humans and mice. In addition, we observed sustained expression of key T and B-cell related regulatory pathways in aged Spalax immune organs. In our future research, we will use a single-cell multiomics approach combining scRNA-seq, scTCR/BCR-seq, and scATAC-seq to fully characterize the Spalax aging immunity in direct comparison with mice and human data. We will use state-of-the-art computational methods, including newly developed ML-based approaches and scTCR/BCR repertoire analysis software, to perform an accurate error-corrected evaluation of the TCR/BCR repertoire characteristics and expression profiles, as well as an unbiased integration of the multiomics data. Our approach will allow us to decipher the immune system composition, development and functional regulation in aged Spalax, and transfer our findings to human and mouse data through the comparative analysis . This will potentially allow us to understand the unique molecular mechanisms underlying sustained immune control and mechanisms of longevity in mammals.

Sustainable Development Goals

Masaryk University is committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to improve the conditions and quality of life on our planet by 2030.