[Lipid composition and properties of plasma membranes in aging and certain types of experimental pathology]

To study the age-related relationship between the membrane status and activity of membrane-linked enzymes, the physicochemical properties of plasma membranes and activity of transfer ATPase and adenylate cyclase were assessed in tissues of rats of different ages. The lipid matrix of membranes was found to undergo appropriate changes with age. The most significant shifts are manifested under functional and metabolic stresses. It has been demonstrated that the shifts in the regulated activity of the studied enzymes are induced by changes in membrane interactions. The findings suggest predominantly the membrane mechanisms that determine the insufficiency of adaptation mechanisms in old age.