Age related changes of myeloperoxidase and lysozyme activities of neutrophils

ABSTRACT

The myeloperoxidase and lysozyme activities of neutrophils were studied in a number of healthy individuals representing a wide range of age 24 to 89 years. Each person was subjected to full clinical examination and laboratory investigation. Those persons shown to suffer from any disorder known to affect host defence system, were excluded. According to age, they were classified into three groups. GROUP I from 24-38 years, group II from 41-57 years and group III from 60-89 years. A high significant age-related reduction of myeloperoxidase activity of neutrophils was demonstrated. Despite no significant age related difference of lysozyme activity was declared, a significant negative, correlation between age and neutrophil lysozyme activity was found in group III. We concluded that myeloperoxidase activity of neutrophils do decline with age. This finding could result in a functional neutropenia in the aged people