Cell-mediated immunity in aged mice: an underlying lesion in IL 2 synthesis

J Immunol. 1982 May;128(5):2358-61.

Abstract

It is well established that immune potential declines with age and that aged animals are unable to mount vigorous cell-mediated immune responses. Production of the lymphokine, Interleukin 2 (IL 2) in response to the T cell mitogen concanavalin A or allogeneic stimulation is also diminished in aged individuals. This lesion in IL 2 synthesis in aged mice underlies their deficiency in cell-mediated responses. Mixed lymphocyte responses, cell-mediated lympholysis, and antigen-induced T cell proliferation are all markedly enhanced by supplementation with this lymphokine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aging*
  • Animals
  • Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
  • Immunity, Cellular
  • Interleukin-2 / biosynthesis*
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Lymphocyte Culture Test, Mixed
  • Lymphokines / biosynthesis*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL / immunology*
  • Mice, Inbred CBA
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / metabolism*

Substances

  • Interleukin-2
  • Lymphokines