Error theory and ageing in human diploid fibroblasts
1National Institute for Medical Research, Mill Hill.
Nature
|October 6, 1972
Summary
Altered proteins accumulate in ageing human lung cells, as shown by immunological and enzymatic tests on lactate dehydrogenase. This finding supports the error catastrophe theory of aging and death.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Cellular aging is associated with various molecular changes.
- The accumulation of altered proteins is a hallmark of aging.
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme involved in cellular metabolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and nature of altered proteins in aging human lung fibroblasts.
- To assess the role of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in cellular aging.
- To evaluate the support for the error catastrophe theory of aging.
Main Methods:
- Immunological assays were used to detect and characterize altered proteins.
- Enzymatic assessments were performed on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and levels.
- Human lung fibroblast cell cultures at different ages were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Immunological and enzymatic analyses indicated the accumulation of altered proteins in aging human lung fibroblasts.
- Specific changes in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were observed, suggesting protein alterations.
- The findings provide evidence consistent with the error catastrophe theory.
Conclusions:
- Altered protein accumulation is a significant feature of cellular aging in human lung fibroblasts.
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) may be involved in or indicative of these protein alterations.
- The study provides support, though not definitive proof, for the error catastrophe theory of aging and death.
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