Economic and political implications of immunology and aging on tomorrow's society

The historic development of immunology is associated with Eli Metchnikoff who introduced the term 'gerontology' in 1906. Metchnikoff also understood the impact of population aging on society as revealed in two remarkable books. The immune system is relevant to aging in so many ways-immunesenescence, the potential role of immunological changes in the dementias, the interrelationship of immune resistance and bereavement, retirement and other life changes and transplantation biology and pathology. These are only a few examples of the interrelationships of immunology and aging. The economic and political implications of immunology and aging are rarely discussed. If we are not able to cure the disorders of longevity, eve need to delay their onset and progression. Such an effort is enhanced by modem biology including recombinant DNA and Hybridoma technology. Many in society fear the growing numbers of older persons-can we afford old age? Will population aging lead to stagnation of society and will there be intergenerational conflicts? These gloomy notions are not entirely offset by enthusiasm for an extended high quality longevity. This presentation will discuss these various issues and offer positive solutions. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.