Decreased cytosolic free calcium concentration of aged human lymphocytes in resting state.

Abstract

Cytosolic free calcium concentration was measured in lymphocytes from individuals over the age of 80, using quin2 and fura-2 calcium indicators. The average intracellular free calcium concentration of the samples was 62 nM, which value is roughly half the adult (age between 35 and 55) level (116 nM). It is supposed that the decline in immune function of aged individuals is connected to the decrease in free calcium concentration in their lymphocytes. We also discuss the consequences and the adaptive character of this decrease.