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Microglial expression of MHC class II increases in normal aging of nonhuman primates
1Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City 66160-7400, USA.
Abstract:
The search for factors that influence age-related behavioral and cognitive slowing is ongoing. Because microglia are involved in many neurological disorders, they may also contribute to changes in normal aging. To assess increases in microglial activity, we used an antibody against MHC class II to label microglia in three groups of brains from female Macaca nemestrina: juvenile (2-5 years), young adult (5-11 years), and mature (11-19 years). Image analysis was completed on four white matter and three gray matter regions in a single coronal plane. Microglial expression of MHC class II increased with age, and was highest in the white matter regions of the mature, or middle-aged, monkeys. The higher expression of this antigen may indicate that the cells will more easily respond to stimulation. Their location in the white matter suggest that they may influence myelin loss and the eventual cognitive decline in aged human and nonhuman primates.
Insights
Microglial activity, marked by MHC class II expression, increases with age in rhesus macaques. This heightened activity, particularly in white matter, may contribute to age-related cognitive decline.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Aging Research
- Immunology
Background:
- Microglia play a role in neurological disorders and may influence normal aging processes.
- Age-related cognitive slowing is a significant area of research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate microglial activity changes with age in Macaca nemestrina.
- To determine if microglial activation correlates with aging in primate brains.
Main Methods:
- Used an antibody against MHC class II to label microglia in brains of juvenile, young adult, and mature female Macaca nemestrina.
- Performed image analysis on specific white matter and gray matter regions.
Main Results:
- Microglial expression of MHC class II significantly increased with age.
- Highest expression was observed in the white matter of mature, middle-aged monkeys.
Conclusions:
- Increased microglial MHC class II expression suggests heightened immune responsiveness in aging primates.
- Microglia in white matter may influence myelin integrity and contribute to age-related cognitive decline.