[Structural changes and functional evaluation of the thymus in aging mouse induced by D-galactose]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Aging Research
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The thymus plays a crucial role in immune system development and function.
• Aging is associated with thymus involution, leading to immune decline.
• D-galactose is known to induce aging phenotypes in animal models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of D-galactose on thymus structure and function in aging mice.
• To establish a reliable mouse model for studying thymus aging.

Main Methods:

• Female C57BL/6 mice were treated with varying doses of D-galactose or saline.
• Thymus morphology, index, and HE staining were analyzed.
• Flow cytometry assessed CD4/CD8 thymocyte populations.
• Plasma levels of thymosin α1 were measured via ELISA.
• Different treatment durations (6, 9, 12 weeks) were evaluated.

Main Results:

• D-galactose induced thymus atrophy, decreased thymus index, and structural disorganization.
• Immune function was impaired, with altered CD4/CD8 thymocyte ratios.
• Reduced thymosin α1 levels and impaired thymic secretion were observed.
• Significant thymus senescence was evident after 12 weeks of D-galactose administration.

Conclusions:

• D-galactose effectively induces thymus aging in mice, characterized by structural and functional deficits.
• A daily subcutaneous injection of 1000 mg/kg D-galactose for 12 weeks is a suitable method for establishing a thymus aging mouse model.