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Restoration of polymorphonuclear leukocyte function in elderly subjects by thymomodulin
P C Braga1, M Dal Sasso, S Maci
1Dept. of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Milan, Italy.
Journal of Chemotherapy (Florence, Italy)
|October 1, 1994
Summary
Thymomodulin (TMD) treatment improved immune cell function in elderly individuals. This supplement enhanced phagocytosis in polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), boosting their ability to fight infections.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gerontology
- Physiology
Background:
- Aging is associated with reduced immune function, particularly in polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs).
- Elderly individuals often exhibit impaired phagocytosis and oxidative burst capacity in their immune cells.
- Thymomodulin (TMD), a thymus-derived polypeptide mixture, is used to address immunological deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of oral Thymomodulin (TMD) on PMN phagocytosis and oxidative burst in elderly subjects.
- To determine if TMD can restore age-related declines in immune cell function.
Main Methods:
- A 6-week oral administration of 160 mg/day Thymomodulin (TMD) was given to elderly subjects.
- Polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) phagocytosis and oxidative burst were assessed before and after treatment.
- Phagocytic index and luminol-dependent chemiluminescence were measured.
Main Results:
- TMD treatment significantly improved PMN phagocytosis by 132.6% and the phagocytic index by 112.5%.
- A non-significant 15.6% increase in luminol-dependent chemiluminescence (oxidative burst) was observed.
- These results suggest a selective enhancement of phagocytic activity.
Conclusions:
- Thymomodulin (TMD) demonstrates a restorative effect on the phagocytic capacity of immune cells in the elderly.
- TMD may be beneficial for enhancing immune defenses in immunocompromised elderly individuals.
- Further research may explore the differential effects of TMD on phagocytosis versus oxidative burst.