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Dehydroepiandrosterone, ageing and immune activation
M Ledochowski1, C Murr, M Jäger
1Department of Clinical Nutrition, Leopold-Franzens University, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
Experimental Gerontology
|October 24, 2001
Summary
Age-related decline in dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is linked to immune system activation. Lower DHEA levels correlate with higher neopterin, suggesting immune responses may reduce DHEA production.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Age-related decline in dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) production is implicated in various clinical disorders.
- Elderly individuals often exhibit immune system abnormalities, including elevated neopterin concentrations.
- Neopterin is a marker produced by monocytes/macrophages stimulated by interferon-gamma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and serum neopterin levels.
- To explore the potential link between DHEA decline and immune system activation in aging.
Main Methods:
- Study included 281 healthy outpatients undergoing medical check-ups.
- Serum DHEA sulfate (DHEAs) and neopterin concentrations were measured.
- Statistical analyses included Mann-Whitney and Spearman's rank correlation tests.
Main Results:
- A significant inverse correlation was found between DHEAs and neopterin concentrations (r(s)=-0.221, P<0.0001).
- DHEAs concentrations were significantly higher in individuals with lower neopterin levels (P<0.0001).
- 10% of participants had elevated neopterin, while only 0.4% had elevated DHEAs.
Conclusions:
- The findings support the hypothesis that decreasing DHEA levels with age are associated with immune system activation.
- Oxidative stress, potentially accompanying immune responses, may contribute to diminished DHEA synthesis.
- This suggests a potential role for DHEA in modulating age-related immune changes.