The 'autoimmunome' of centenarians

OBJECTIVE: To identify signature proteins potentially linked to resistance to autoimmunity in the blood of centenarians. METHODS: We conducted in silico data mining of previously published proteomic results using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) and PHENOPEDIA databases. RESULTS: Sixteen autoimmune disease-related proteins were identified within the proteomic signatures of centenarians. Albumin was the most connected hub protein, notably elevated in centenarians compared to younger controls, suggesting a protective role. Eight of the identified autoimmunity-related proteins-ADIPOQ, C1S, C5, C7, C9, CFD, MASP1, and SERPING1-were associated with the complement system. CONCLUSION: Elevated albumin levels and a prominent complement system presence in centenarians' blood proteome may contribute to resistance to autoimmunity, highlighting potential protective mechanisms against autoimmune diseases in extreme longevity.