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Effect of age on human neutrophil function
C Wenisch1, S Patruta, F Daxböck
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Vienna, Austria.
Journal of Leukocyte Biology
|January 27, 2000
Summary
Aging impairs neutrophil function, reducing phagocytosis and bacterial killing. Increased intracellular calcium and decreased hexose uptake contribute to these age-related declines in immune defense.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Neutrophil function is critical for innate immunity.
- Age-related changes can impact immune cell performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-dependent changes in neutrophil functions.
- To correlate these changes with intracellular factors.
Main Methods:
- Assessed phagocytosis, reactive oxygen production, bactericidal activity, and chemotaxis in three age groups.
- Utilized acridine orange staining and flow cytometry for phagocytosis assessment.
- Measured intracellular calcium and hexose uptake.
Main Results:
- Significant age-dependent reduction in phagocytosis of E. coli and S. aureus.
- Increased intracellular calcium and reduced hexose uptake correlated with decreased phagocytosis.
- Impaired neutrophil bactericidal activity and a trend toward reduced chemotaxis in older adults.
Conclusions:
- Aging is associated with reduced neutrophil phagocytic and bactericidal capabilities.
- Elevated intracellular calcium and diminished hexose uptake may underlie these functional deficits in the elderly.
- These findings highlight age-related vulnerabilities in neutrophil-mediated immunity.