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The effect of aging on complement activity (CH50) and complement protein levels
Journal of Clinical & Laboratory Immunology
|January 1, 1980
Insights
This study investigated complement system activity in aging. Older adults showed increased complement component levels (CH50, C1q, C4, C3, C5, C9) and decreased factor B, while C1 inactivator remained stable.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gerontology
Background:
- The complement system is crucial for innate immunity.
- Age-related changes in immune function are well-documented.
- Understanding complement system dynamics in aging is vital for health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze age-related variations in complement system components.
- To quantify total complement activity (CH50) and specific protein levels in different age groups.
Main Methods:
- Sera from 1,130 healthy individuals (20-79 years old) were analyzed.
- Measurements included total complement activity (CH50) and protein levels of C1q, C4, C3, C5, C9, factor B, and C1 inactivator.
Main Results:
- Older age groups exhibited increased CH50, C1q, C4, C3, C5, and C9 levels.
- A decrease in factor B levels was observed in older individuals.
- C1 inactivator levels showed minimal variation across age groups.
Conclusions:
- Complement system activity undergoes significant alterations with aging.
- Specific complement components are upregulated, while others are downregulated in older adults.
- These findings contribute to understanding immune system changes in aging.
Abstract:
Total complement activity (CH50), and the protein levels of C1q, C4, C3, C5, C9, factor B and C1 inactivator were measured in the 1,130 sera obtained from healthy subjects aged between 20 and 79 years old. Increase in the levels of CH50, C1q, C4, C3, C5 and C9 and decrease of factor B were found in the older age group. The level of C1 inactivator showed little variation with aging.