Kilic, G., et al. Age-related differences in immune responses to inactivated influenza and adjuvanted recombinant herpes zoster vaccines. JCI Insight, 2026 Jun 2. PMID: 42228420

This paper uniquely explores how the adjuvant AS01 enhances immune responses in aged populations, focusing on its role in overcoming immunosenescence. By comparing responses to the herpes zoster vaccine (RZV) with those of the inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV4), the study reveals that RZV, equipped with AS01, induces robust humoral and cellular immunity, including polyfunctional CD4+ T cells and sustained IFN-γ responses, even in older adults with baseline systemic inflammation. Notably, RZV also reduces systemic inflammation in this population, which might underpin its long-term efficacy, something the traditional flu vaccine fails to achieve. This research sheds light on how saponin-based adjuvants can modulate innate and adaptive immunity in immunosenescent environments, emphasizing their potential to improve vaccine efficacy in vulnerable aging populations. 

The paper is unique in directly linking adjuvant-induced immune activation and inflammation modulation in humans across age groups, advancing understanding of adjuvant mechanisms critical for next-generation vaccines.

Click here to access the full scientific paper.