Ageing and CD56bright NK Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Chidrawar Shivani M, Khan Naeem, Chan Y L Tracey, Nayak Laxman, Moss Paul AH
Primary Institution: University of Birmingham
Hypothesis
This study sought to determine the potential influence of ageing on the number of NK cell subsets within peripheral blood.
Conclusion
The number of CD56bright NK cells within peripheral blood declines with age.
Supporting Evidence
- The absolute number of CD56bright NK cells declined by 48% with ageing.
- Individuals aged 20–40 years had a mean of 15.6 cells/μl, while those aged 60+ years had 8.1 cells/μl.
- The study found no significant change in the number of CD56dim NK cells with age.
Takeaway
As people get older, they have fewer CD56bright NK cells, which are important for fighting infections.
Methodology
The study involved flow cytometric analysis of NK cell subsets in peripheral blood from different age groups.
Participant Demographics
The study population consisted of 115 individuals divided into three age groups: 20–40 years (n = 25), 40–60 years (n = 23), and > 60 years (n = 67, mean age 79 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0004
Statistical Significance
p = 0.0004
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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