Self-antigen loss drives muscle–metabolic decline

This proposed hypothesis asks whether ageing-related loss of muscle strength and glucose control could begin in the thymus, the organ that trains developing T cells to recognize the body’s own tissues safely. It proposes restoring presentation of selected self-antigens, tissue components immune cells can recognize, in 80% of each of two thymic epithelial cell groups, supporting cells that screen new T cells. The predicted first change is fewer newly produced autoreactive T cells, immune cells poised to attack muscle or endocrine tissues; muscle recovery and glucose regulation would follow weeks or months later. One group should aid one function. 40% should be insufficient. Quick benefits would weaken the hypothesis. Testing requires distinct antigens and targetable groups.