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Interleukin-5 production by mononuclear cells from aged individuals: implication for autoimmunity
Mechanisms of Ageing and Development
|April 1, 1999
Summary
Immune function declines with age, leading to reduced responses to foreign antigens but increased autoantibodies. This study shows older adults have higher interleukin-5 (IL-5) levels, a Th-2 cytokine, suggesting a shift in immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gerontology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Immune function deteriorates in the elderly, affecting T cell responses and increasing autoantibody prevalence.
- Altered cytokine production may explain the paradox of decreased foreign antigen response alongside increased self-antigen response in aging individuals.
- Age-associated impairment of T helper 1 (Th-1) function selectively affects cellular response cytokines, while T helper 2 (Th-2) function appears unaffected.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of aging on interleukin-5 (IL-5) production by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.
- To strengthen the hypothesis of age-related immune dysregulation involving Th-1 and Th-2 cytokine balance.
Main Methods:
- Mitogen-stimulated cultures of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from young and old human subjects were used.
- Interleukin-5 (IL-5) levels were measured in stimulated cultures at 24 and 48 hours.
Main Results:
- Interleukin-5 (IL-5) content was higher in cultures from old individuals compared to young individuals.
- This difference in IL-5 levels was statistically significant at the 48-hour time point.
Conclusions:
- Aging is associated with decreased production of Th-1 cytokines and normal or increased production of Th-2 cytokines, such as IL-5.
- This cytokine imbalance may explain the observed immune profile in the elderly: reduced cell-mediated immunity coupled with normal or enhanced humoral and autoimmune responses.