The effect of ageing on phenotype and function of monocyte-derived Langerhans cells
2011

The Effect of Ageing on Langerhans Cells

Sample size: 12 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Stephanie Ogden, Richard J. Dearman, Kimber I., C.E.M. Griffiths

Primary Institution: Dermatology Centre, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, University of Manchester

Hypothesis

How does ageing affect the function of monocyte-derived Langerhans cells?

Conclusion

Changes in Langerhans cell function in the elderly are not linked to changes in systemic dendritic cell phenotype and function.

Supporting Evidence

  • Monocytes from aged individuals can still differentiate into Langerhans cells.
  • There were no significant differences in activation markers between young and aged subjects.
  • Migration in response to CCL19 was equivalent in both age groups.

Takeaway

As people get older, their skin's immune cells, called Langerhans cells, still work well and don't change much, but the environment around them is very important.

Methodology

The study compared the phenotype and function of monocyte-derived Langerhans cells from young and aged individuals using flow cytometry and migration assays.

Participant Demographics

Six young individuals (≤ 30 years) and six aged individuals (≥ 70 years).

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1111/j.1365-2133.2011.10313.x

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