Author
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Meydani, Simin |
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Wu, Dayong |
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Submitted to: Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
Publication Type: Proceedings Publication Acceptance Date: 6/2/2008 Publication Date: 11/1/2008 Citation: Meydani, S., Wu, D. 2008. Nutrition and age-associated inflammation: implications for disease prevention. Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. 32:626-629. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Accumulating evidence suggests that aging is associated with dysregulated immune and inflammatory responses. Investigation into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon suggests that an up-regulated cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression, and resulting increase in production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), is a critical factor. Macrophages from old mice have significantly higher levels of PGE2 production compared with those from young mice, a result of increased COX-2 expression and protein levels leading to increased COX enzyme activity. Further, studies suggest that the age-associated increase in macrophage PGE2 production is due to ceramide-induced up-regulation of nuclear factor-kappa B activation. Such processes may also occur in cell types other than macrophages, lending further insight into potential mechanisms of age-related diseases. Moreover, the excess PGE2 induces harmful effects in other cell types such T cells and adipocytes through the negative crosstalk between macrophages with other cells, resulting in further increased susceptibility to diseases. Nutrient/dietary medications, such as antioxidants and certain lipids have suggested a promising route to reduce the age-related increase in COX activity and PGE2 production that are associated with several disease states. |
