Allele frequencies of +874T-->A single nucleotide polymorphism at the first intron of interferon-gamma gene in a group of Italian centenarians

Immunosenescence and age-related immune cells: causes of age-related diseases

Immunosenescence is a weakening of the immune system due to aging, characterized by changes in immune cells and dysregulated immune function. Age-related immune cells are increasing with aging. They are associated with chronic prolonged inflammation, causing tissue dysfunction and age-related diseases. Here, we discuss increased pro-inflammatory activity of aged macrophages, accumulation of lymphocytes with an age-associated phenotype, and specific alterations in both functions and characteristics of these immune cells. These cellular changes are associated with development of age-related diseases. Additionally, we reviewed various therapeutic strategies targeting age-related immunosenescence, providing pathways to mitigate effects of age-related diseases.

Centenarians-the way to healthy vascular ageing and longevity: a review from VascAgeNet

The prevalence of centenarians, people who lived 100 years and longer, is steadily growing in the last decades. This exceptional longevity is based on multifaceted processes influenced by a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors such as sex, (epi-)genetic factors, gut microbiota, cellular metabolism, exposure to oxidative stress, immune status, cardiovascular risk factors, environmental factors, and lifestyle behavior. Epidemiologically, the incidence rate of cardiovascular diseases is reduced in healthy centenarians along with late onset of age-related diseases compared with the general aged population. Understanding the mechanisms that affect vascular ageing in centenarians and the underlying factors could offer valuable insights for developing strategies to improve overall healthy life span in the elderly. This review discusses these key factors influencing vascular ageing and how their modulation could foster healthy longevity.

Extension of life span by down-regulation of enzymes catalyzing tryptophan conversion into kynurenine: Possible implications for mechanisms of aging

The end products of catabolism of tryptophan (Trp), an essential amino acid, are known to affect mechanism(s) of aging, a neurodegenerative condition. This review focuses on the possible role of the initial step of Trp catabolism, kynurenine (Kyn) formation from Trp, in aging mechanism(s). Rate-limiting enzymes of Trp conversion into Kyn are tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase 2 (TDO) or indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). Aging is associated with up-regulated production of cortisol, an activator of TDO, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, inducers of IDO. The other rate-limiting enzyme of Kyn formation from Trp is ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter that regulates Trp availability as a substrate for TDO. Inhibitors of TDO (alpha-methyl tryptophan) and ABC transporter (5-methyltryptophan) extended life span of wild-type Drosophila. Life span prolongation was observed in TDO knockdown of Caenorhabditis elegans and in TDO or ABC transporter-deficient Drosophila mutants. Down-regulation of enzymes catalyzing Kyn conversion into kynurenic acid (KYNA) and 3-hydroxykynurenine decreases life span. Considering that down-regulation of Methuselah (MTH) gene prolonged life span, aging-accelerating effect of KYNA, a GPR35/MTH agonist, might depend on MTH gene activation. Mice treated with TDO inhibitor, benserazide, an ingredient of anti-Parkinson medication carbidopa, and TDO-deficient Drosophila mutants were resistant to inducement of aging-associated Metabolic Syndrome by high-sugar or high-fat diets. Up-regulation of Kyn formation was associated with accelerated aging and increased mortality in human subjects. Trp-Kyn pathway is evolutionary conserved (from yeasts, through insects, worms, vertebrates to humans). Further studies might explore possible antiaging effect of down-regulation of Kyn formation from Trp by dietary, pharmacological, and genetic interventions.

Immunosenescence and inflammaging in the aging process: age-related diseases or longevity?

During aging the immune system (IS) undergoes remarkable changes that collectively are known as immunosenescence. It is a multifactorial and dynamic phenomenon that affects both natural and acquired immunity and plays a critical role in most chronic diseases in older people. For a long time, immunosenescence has been considered detrimental because it may lead to a low-grade, sterile chronic inflammation we proposed to call "inflammaging" and a progressive reduction in the ability to trigger effective antibody and cellular responses against infections and vaccinations. Recently, many scientists revised this negative meaning because it can be considered an essential adaptation/remodeling resulting from the lifelong immunological biography of single individuals from an evolutionary perspective. Inflammaging can be considered an adaptive process because it can trigger an anti-inflammatory response to counteract the age-related pro-inflammatory environment. Centenarians represent a valuable model to study the beneficial changes occurring in the IS with age. These extraordinary individuals reached the extreme limits of human life by slowing down the aging process and, in most cases, delaying, avoiding or surviving the major age-associated diseases. They indeed show a complex and heterogeneous phenotype determined by an improved ability to adapt and remodel in response to harmful stimuli. This review aims to point out the intimate relationship between immunosenescence and inflammaging and how these processes impact unsuccessful aging rather than longevity. We also describe the gut microbiota age-related changes as one of the significant triggers of inflammaging and the sex/gender differences in the immune system of the elderly, contributing to the sex/gender disparity in terms of epidemiology, pathophysiology, symptoms and severity of age-related diseases. Finally, we discuss how these phenomena could influence the susceptibility to COVID-19 infection.

B Cell Immunosenescence

Innate and adaptive immune responses decline with age, leading to greater susceptibility to infectious diseases and reduced responses to vaccines. Diseases are more severe in old than in young individuals and have a greater impact on health outcomes such as morbidity, disability, and mortality. Aging is characterized by increased low-grade chronic inflammation, so-called inflammaging, that represents a link between changes in immune cells and a number of diseases and syndromes typical of old age. In this review we summarize current knowledge on age-associated changes in immune cells with special emphasis on B cells, which are more inflammatory and less responsive to infections and vaccines in the elderly. We highlight recent findings on factors and pathways contributing to inflammaging and how these lead to dysfunctional immune responses. We summarize recent published studies showing that adipose tissue, which increases in size with aging, contributes to inflammaging and dysregulated B cell function.

SARS CoV2 infection _The longevity study perspectives

Like other infectious diseases, COVID-19 shows a clinical outcome enormously variable, ranging from asymptomatic to lethal. In Italy, like in other countries, old male individuals, with one or more comorbidity, are the most susceptible group, and show, consequently, the highest mortality, and morbidity, including lethal respiratory distress syndrome, as the most common complication. In addition, another extraordinary peculiarity, that is a surprising resistance to COVID-19, characterizes some Italian nonagenarians/centenarians. Despite having the typical COVID-19 signs and/or symptoms, such exceptional individuals show a surprising tendency to recover from illness and complications. On the other hand, long-lived people have an optimal performance of immune system related to an overexpression of anti-inflammatory variants in immune/inflammatory genes, as demonstrated by our and other groups. Consequently, we suggest long-lived people as an optimal model for detecting genetic profiles associated with the susceptibility and/or protection to COVID-19, to utilize as potential pharmacological targets for preventing or reducing viral infection in more vulnerable individuals.

Impact of Regulatory T Cells on Type 2 Alveolar Epithelial Cell Transcriptomes during Resolution of Acute Lung Injury and Contributions of IFN-γ

By enhancing tissue repair and modulating immune responses, Foxp3⁺ regulatory T cells (Tregs) play essential roles in resolution from lung injury. The current study investigated the effects that Tregs exert directly or indirectly on the transcriptional profiles of type 2 alveolar epithelial (AT2) cells during resolution in an experimental model of acute lung injury. Purified AT2 cells were isolated from uninjured mice or mice recovering from LPS-induced lung injury, either in the presence of Tregs or in Treg-depleted mice, and transcriptome profiling identified differentially expressed genes. Depletion of Tregs resulted in altered expression of 49 genes within AT2 cells during resolution, suggesting that Tregs present in this microenvironment influence AT2-cell function. Biological processes from Gene Ontology enriched in the absence of Tregs included those describing responses to IFN. Neutralizing IFN-γ in Treg-depleted mice reversed the effect of Treg depletion on inflammatory macrophages and B cells by preventing the increase in inflammatory macrophages and the decrease in B cells. Our results provide insight into the effects of Tregs on AT2 cells. Tregs directly or indirectly impact many AT2-cell functions, including IFN type I and II-mediated signaling pathways. Inhibition of IFN-γ expression and/or function may be one mechanism through which Tregs accelerate resolution after acute lung injury.

Association of TGFβ1 codon 10 (T>C) and IL-10 (G>C) cytokine gene polymorphisms with longevity in a cohort of Italian population

Longevity is a complex process controlled by both environmental and genetic factors. We evaluated the association of four cytokine gene polymorphisms with longevity in an Italian cohort. A sample of 1019 subjects aged 10 to 100 and belonging to the North-Italian population was genotyped for IL-6 (G>C, rs1800796), IL-10-1082 (G>A, rs1800896), TNF-α-308 (G>A, rs1800629), and TGFβ1 codon 10 (T>C, rs1800471) gene polymorphisms. The association between cytokine gene polymorphisms and longevity was evaluated by dividing the sample into four age groups: 10 to 24, 25 to 49, 50 to 85, and 86 to 100. We observed a significant decrease in the frequency of IL-10 A allele in the 25 to 49 (P = 1.1 × 10^-3 ), 50 to 85 (P < 1 × 10^-4 ), and 86 to 100 (P = 2 × 10^-3 ) age groups compared to that in the youngest age group. Similarly, we found a significant decrease (P < 1 × 10^-4 ) in the frequency of TGFβ1 C allele in the 50 to 85 and 86 to 100 age groups compared to that in the 10 to 24 and 25 to 49 age groups. Previously, high levels of TGFβ1 were detected in elderly subjects, suggesting that this cytokine could counterbalance the harmful effects of inflammation. Similarly, IL-10 has strong anti-inflammatory properties and can inhibit the production of proinflammatory cytokines. In the literature, the lowest levels of functional cytokines were found to be associated with TGFβ1 (T>C) and IL-10 (G>A) gene polymorphisms, with consequent increase in the duration of inflammation and cancer risk. For these reasons, it is plausible to observe low rates of these mutations in elderly subjects, as found in our study.

Searching for the Role of the IFNγ rs2430561 Polymorphism in Inducible Inflammation: Contribution to Metabolic Syndrome in 45 to 60-Year-Old Women

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of conditions, increasing the risk of developing diseases that can lead to premature death. Interferon γ-inducible (the production of which is dependent on the IFNγ rs2430561 polymorphism) tryptophan-kynurenine inflammatory cascade helps to understand the increased association between inflammatory process and MetS, which is why we seek the relationship between the IFNγ gene polymorphisms and serum levels of markers of interferon-gamma (IFNγ)-inducible inflammatory cascade. The study sample consisted of 416 women, including 118 (28.4%) with MetS. The research procedure involved interview, anthropometric measurements, and blood collection. Kynurenine levels were significantly higher in the group of women with MetS. In the group with MetS, the A/T genotype of the IFNγ gene was accompanied by higher kynurenine levels. A direct relationship between the IFNγ gene polymorphisms and the rest of the markers of IFNγ-inducible inflammatory cascade was not confirmed with regard to MetS in 45 to 60-year-old women. A disparity in the kynurenine level, as well as the relationship between the presence of the A/T genotype of the IFNγ gene and a higher level of kynurenine in the group of women with MetS, may indicate an association between inflammation, metabolic disorders and tryptophan-kynurenine inflammatory cascade.

Aging, inflammation, immunity and periodontal disease

The increased prevalence and severity of periodontal disease have long been associated with aging, such that this oral condition affects the majority of the adult population over 50 years of age. Although the immune system is a critical component for maintaining health, aging can be characterized by quantitative and qualitative modifications of the immune system. This process, termed 'immunosenescence', is a progressive modification of the immune system that leads to greater susceptibility to infections, neoplasia and autoimmunity, presumably reflecting the prolonged antigenic stimulation and/or stress responses that occur across the lifespan. Interestingly, the global reduction in the host capability to respond effectively to these challenges is coupled with a progressive increase in the general proinflammatory status, termed 'inflammaging'. Consistent with the definition of immunosenescence, it has been suggested that the cumulative effect of prolonged exposure of the periodontium to microbial challenge is, at least in part, a contributor to the effects of aging on these tissues. Thus, it has also been hypothesized that alterations in the function of resident immune and nonimmune cells of the periodontium contribute to the expression of inflammaging in periodontal disease. Although the majority of aging research has focused on the adaptive immune response, it is becoming increasingly clear that the innate immune compartment is also highly affected by aging. Thus, the phenomenon of immunosenescence and inflammaging, expressed as age-associated changes within the periodontium, needs to be more fully understood in this era of precision and personalized medicine and dentistry.

Interferon Gamma Gene Polymorphism (+874 T > A) and Chronic Hepatitis B in the Population of Gorgan, North-Eastern Iran

Background

Based on differences in individual immune responses to the hepatitis B virus (HBV), between 5% and 10% of patients become persistently infected with the virus, which leads to the determination of chronic HBV. Cytokines such as interferon gamma (IFN-γ) are secretory proteins that play important roles in both innate and adaptive immune responses. Functional studies have demonstrated that the IFN + 874A/T gene polymorphism can increase or decrease the overall expression of IFN-gamma (γ) and ultimately determine the outcome of the infection.

Objectives

This study was performed to investigate the relationship between the IFN-γ + 874 gene polymorphism and susceptibility to chronic HBV infection.

Methods

Polymorphism detection analysis was performed on 598 subjects from North-Eastern Iran. The IFN-γ gene polymorphism (+ 874A/T) was genotyped through a specific sequence primer polymerase chain reaction (SSP-PCR).

Results

The frequencies of the AA, AT, and TT genotypes were 31%, 51%, and 18% in the chronic HBV patient group, and 40%, 45%, and 15% in the healthy control group, respectively. However, a lack of association of the + 874 polymorphism in the IFN-γ gene of those with chronic HBV infection was found. Evaluation of HBV association with this polymorphism was significant under the dominant genetic model (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Ultimately, no association could be characterized between the polymorphism in IFN-γ + 874A/T and susceptibility to chronic HBV infection in this segment of the Iranian population (P > 0.05).

Inflammaging decreases adaptive and innate immune responses in mice and humans

Both the innate and adaptive immune systems decline with age, causing greater susceptibility to infectious diseases and reduced responses to vaccination. Diseases are more severe in elderly than in young individuals and have a greater impact on health outcomes such as morbidity, disability and mortality. Aging is characterized by increased low-grade chronic inflammation, called "inflammaging", measured by circulating levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and CRP, as well as by latent infections with viruses such as cytomegalovirus. Inflammaging has received considerable attention because it proposes a link between changes in immune cells and a number of diseases and syndromes typical of old age. In this review we aim at summarizing the current knowledge on pathways contributing to inflammaging, on immune responses down-regulated by inflammation and mechanisms proposed. The defects in the immune response of elderly individuals presented in this review should help to discover avenues for effective intervention to promote healthy aging.

The interplay between immune maturation, age, chronic viral infection and environment

BACKGROUND

The worldwide increase in life expectancy has been associated with an increase in age-related morbidities. The underlying mechanisms resulting in immunosenescence are only incompletely understood. Chronic viral infections, in particular infection with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), have been suggested as a main driver in immunosenescence. Here, we propose that rhesus macaques could serve as a relevant model to define the impact of chronic viral infections on host immunity in the aging host. We evaluated whether chronic rhesus CMV (RhCMV) infection, similar to HCMV infection in humans, would modulate normal immunological changes in the aging individual by taking advantage of the unique resource of rhesus macaques that were bred and raised to be Specific Pathogen Free (SPF-2) for distinct viruses.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrate that normal age-related immunological changes in frequencies, activation, maturation, and function of peripheral blood cell lymphocytes in humans occur in a similar manner over the lifespan of rhesus macaques. The comparative analysis of age-matched SPF-2 and non-SPF macaques that were housed under identical conditions revealed distinct differences in certain immune parameters suggesting that chronic pathogen exposure modulated host immune responses. All non-SPF macaques were infected with RhCMV, suggesting that chronic RhCMV infection was a major contributor to altered immune function in non-SPF macaques, although a causative relationship was not established and outside the scope of these studies. Further, we showed that immunological differences between SPF-2 and non-SPF macaques were already apparent in adolescent macaques, potentially predisposing RhCMV-infected animals to age-related pathologies.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data validate rhesus macaques as a relevant animal model to study how chronic viral infections modulate host immunity and impact immunosenescence. Comparative studies in SPF-2 and non-SPF macaques could identify important mechanisms associated with inflammaging and thereby lead to new therapies promoting healthy aging in humans.

Could interferon-gamma be a therapeutic target for treating heart failure?

The cytokine interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is the only known member of the type II family of interferons, and as such, binds to its own distinct receptor. It is important in host defense against infection, as well as adaptive immune responses. While a wide array of cytokines are known to be involved in adverse remodeling of the heart and the progression to heart failure, the role of IFN-γ is unclear. Recent evidence from clinical studies, animal models of myocarditis and hypertension, as well as isolated cell studies, provide conflicting data as to whether IFN-γ is pathological or protective in the heart. Thus, it is important to highlight these discrepant findings so that areas of future investigation can be identified to more clearly determine the precise role of IFN-γ in the heart. Accordingly, this review will (1) discuss the source of IFN-γ in the diseased heart; (2) summarize the data from animal studies; (3) discuss the effects of IFN-γ on isolated cardiac fibroblasts and cardiomyocytes; (4) identify signaling mechanisms that may be invoked by IFN-γ in the heart; and (5) present the clinical evidence supporting a role for IFN-γ in heart failure.

Saccharin derivatives as inhibitors of interferon-mediated inflammation

A series of novel, saccharin-based antagonists have been identified for the interferon signaling pathway. Through in vitro high-throughput screening with the Colorado Center for Drug Discovery (C2D2) Pilot Library, we identified hit compound 1, which was the basis for extensive structure–activity relationship studies. Our efforts produced a lead anti-inflammatory compound, tert-butyl N-(furan-2-ylmethyl)-N-{4-[(1,1,3-trioxo-2,3-dihydro-1λ⁶,2-benzothiazol-2-yl)methyl]benzoyl}carbamate CU-CPD103 (103), as a potent inhibitor using an established nitric oxide (NO) signaling assay. With further studies of its inhibitory mechanisms, we demonstrated that 103 carries out this inhibition through the JAK/STAT1 pathway, providing a drug-like small molecule inflammation suppressant for possible therapeutic uses.

Effects of polymorphisms in immunity-related genes on the immune system and successful aging

Aging is associated with the dysregulation of immune system. Despite a progressive decline in immune function resulting in hyporesponsiveness to infection and vaccination, aging is also characterized by a chronic, low-grade, pro-inflammatory condition. An elderly individual with a systemic inflammation is at an increased risk of age-related diseases. Polymorphisms in the genes coding for inflammatory or anti-inflammatory molecules associated with immune related processes can affect the balance between the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory networks. An improved understanding of the interactions among endogenous and environmental factors and genetic polymorphisms in anti-inflammatory and immune-related genes will increase the possibility of treating major age-related diseases to achieve longevity. The major challenge is to fully understand the complex interactions between genetic variations and multiple factors and their relative contributions to immunosenescence and age-related diseases in various populations. The results of studies that examined polymorphisms in immune-related genes associated with successful aging are reviewed here.

Identification of immunomodulatory signatures induced by american ginseng in murine immune cells

Background. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius, AG) has been used for more than 300 years. Some of its claimed benefits can be attributed to the immunomodulatory activities, whose molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. Methods. Murine splenic cells from adult male C57BL/6 (B6) mice were isolated and divided into 4 groups to mimic 4 basic pathophysiological states: (1) normal naïve; (2) normal activated; (3) deficient naïve; (4) deficient activated. Then, different AG extracts were added to all groups for 24 h incubation. MTT proliferation assays were performed to evaluate the phenotypic features of cells. Finally, microarray assays were carried out to identify differentially expressed genes associated with AG exposure. Real-time PCR was performed to validate the expression of selected genes. Results. Microarray data showed that most of gene expression changes were identified in the deficient naïve group, suggesting that the pathophysiological state has major impacts on transcriptomic changes associated with AG exposure. Specifically, this study revealed downregulation of interferon-γ signaling pathway in the deficient group of cells. Conclusion. Our study demonstrated that only specific groups of immune cells responded to AG intervention and immunocompromised cells were more likely regulated by AG treatment.

Gender-specific association between FSHR and PPARG common variants and human longevity

Men and women have different life expectancies. Not unexpectedly, several genes involved in life span determination have been found to influence the probability of achieving longevity differently in men and women. This investigation examines the association between longevity and polymorphisms of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR, Asn680Ser polymorphism) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG, Pro12Ala polymorphism), two genes that previous investigations suggested may exert a gender-specific influence on human longevity. A sample of 277 individuals (mean age, 82.9±5.7years) was recruited in 2000. On the basis of mortality data collected in 2009, the sample was divided into two groups of subjects surviving over 90 years (long-lived) or not (controls). The frequency of the FSHR 680 Ser/Ser genotype was significantly higher in the sample of long-lived women compared to controls, indicating that the FSHR 680 Ser/Ser genotype may favor survival to more than 90 years of age only in women (odds ratio [OR]=4.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10-16.10, p=0.036). In contrast, the frequency of the PPARG Pro/Ala genotype was significantly higher in the sample of male subjects who died before 90 years of age than in the long-lived, suggesting that carrying the PPARG Pro/Ala genotype may prevent the attainment of advanced age only in men (OR=0.13; 95% CI, 0.02-0.79; p=0.03). We then searched the literature for studies reporting a differential role for the genetic component in male and female longevity. To do this, we selected longevity genes with a gender-specific effect. A review of the studies showed that genetic factors tend to have a greater relevance in determining longevity in men than in women. The possible impact of this phenomenon is discussed.

Periodontal disease immunology: 'double indemnity' in protecting the host

During the last two to three decades our understanding of the immunobiology of periodontal disease has increased exponentially, both with respect to the microbial agents triggering the disease process and the molecular mechanisms of the host engagement maintaining homeostasis or leading to collateral tissue damage. These foundational scientific findings have laid the groundwork for translating cell phenotype, receptor engagement, intracellular signaling pathways and effector functions into a 'picture' of the periodontium as the host responds to the 'danger signals' of the microbial ecology to maintain homeostasis or succumb to a disease process. These findings implicate the chronicity of the local response in attempting to manage the microbial challenge, creating a 'Double Indemnity' in some patients that does not 'insure' health for the periodontium. As importantly, in reflecting the title of this volume of Periodontology 2000, this review attempts to inform the community of how the science of periodontal immunology gestated, how continual probing of the biology of the disease has led to an evolution in our knowledge base and how more recent studies in the postgenomic era are revolutionizing our understanding of disease initiation, progression and resolution. Thus, there has been substantial progress in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of host-bacteria interactions that result in the clinical presentation and outcomes of destructive periodontitis. The science has embarked from observations of variations in responses related to disease expression with a focus for utilization of the responses in diagnosis and therapeutic outcomes, to current investigations using cutting-edge fundamental biological processes to attempt to model the initiation and progression of soft- and hard-tissue destruction of the periodontium. As importantly, the next era in the immunobiology of periodontal disease will need to engage more sophisticated experimental designs for clinical studies to enable robust translation of basic biologic processes that are in action early in the transition from health to disease, those which stimulate microenvironmental changes that select for a more pathogenic microbial ecology and those that represent a rebalancing of the complex host responses and a resolution of inflammatory tissue destruction.

Ageing impairs the T cell response to dendritic cells

Dendritic cells (DCs) are critical in priming adaptive T-cell responses, but the effects of ageing on interactions between DCs and T cells are unclear. This study investigated the influence of ageing on the maturation of and cytokine production by human blood-enriched DCs, and the impact on T cell responses in an allogeneic mixed leucocyte reaction (MLR). DCs from old subjects (65-75 y) produced significantly less TNF-α and IFN-γ than young subjects (20-30 y) in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), but expression of maturation markers and co-stimulatory molecules was preserved. In the MLR, DCs from older subjects induced significantly restricted proliferation of young T cells, activation of CD8+ T cells and expression of IL-12 and IFN-γ in T cells compared with young DCs. T cells from older subjects responded more weakly to DC stimulation compared with young T cells, regardless of whether the DCs were derived from young or older subjects. In conclusion, the capacity of DCs to induce T cell activation is significantly impaired by ageing.

Genetics of longevity. data from the studies on Sicilian centenarians

The demographic and social changes of the past decades have determined improvements in public health and longevity. So, the number of centenarians is increasing as a worldwide phenomenon. Scientists have focused their attention on centenarians as optimal model to address the biological mechanisms of "successful and unsuccessful ageing". They are equipped to reach the extreme limits of human life span and, most importantly, to show relatively good health, being able to perform their routine daily life and to escape fatal age-related diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Thus, particular attention has been centered on their genetic background and immune system. In this review, we report our data gathered for over 10 years in Sicilian centenarians. Based on results obtained, we suggest longevity as the result of an optimal performance of immune system and an over-expression of anti-inflammatory sequence variants of immune/inflammatory genes. However, as well known, genetic, epigenetic, stochastic and environmental factors seem to have a crucial role in ageing and longevity. Epigenetics is associated with ageing, as demonstrated in many studies. In particular, ageing is associated with a global loss of methylation state. Thus, the aim of future studies will be to analyze the weight of epigenetic changes in ageing and longevity.

Inflammation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and aging

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by an abnormal persistent inflammatory response to noxious environmental stimuli, particularly cigarette smoke. The determinants of the dysregulated immune responses, which play a role both in the onset and continuation of COPD, are largely unknown. We examined several molecular mechanisms regulating the inflammatory pathway, such as cytokine polymorphisms, miRNA expression, and DNA methylation in COPD and aging, with the aim to provide evidence supporting the view that aging of the immune system may predispose to COPD.

RECENT FINDINGS

The incidence of COPD increases with age. The pathogenesis of the disease is linked to a chronic inflammation and involves the recruitment and regulation of innate and adaptive immune cells. A chronic systemic inflammation characterizes aging and has been correlated with many diseases, most of them age-related.

SUMMARY

COPD and aging are associated with significant dysregulation of the immune system that leads to a chronic inflammatory response. The similar molecular mechanisms and the common genetic signature shared by COPD and aging suggest that immunosenescence may contribute to the development of COPD.

The T allele of the interferon-gamma +874A/T polymorphism is associated with bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown that patients with bipolar disorder (BD) tend to have altered immune system function. Several studies have reported that changes in interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) may play an important role in the development of BD.

AIMS

To investigate the relationship between IFN-γ and BD, 156 patients with BD and 175 control subjects were genotyped for the IFN-γ +874A/T single nucleotide polymorphism.

RESULTS

We detected significant differences in the genotype distributions and allele frequencies of the IFN-γ +874A/T single nucleotide polymorphism (rs2430561) between patients with BD and normal controls. The T allele was found to be significantly more common among patients with BD than in controls. Additionally, significant differences in scores on the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) were found between the three genotypes of this polymorphism.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the IFN-γ +874A/T polymorphism may have important effects related to susceptibility to BD and that the T allele may be associated with an increased risk of developing BD.

Inflammation and genetics: an insight in the centenarian model

The number of centenarians is growing worldwide. This specific cohort has aroused the attention of scientists worldwide and is considered one of the most valuable models to study the mechanisms involved in the aging process. In fact, they have reached the extreme limits of human life span and, most important of all, they show relatively good health being able to perform their routine daily life. Because they have escaped the common lethal diseases, the role of their genetic background has been brought into focus. In fact, sequence variations, in a variety of pro- or anti-inflammatory cytokine genes, have been found to influence successful ageing and longevity. The key role played by cytokines has been also confirmed in centenarians as we know that inflammation has been related to several pathological burdens (e.g., obesity, atherosclerosis, and diabetes). Successful ageing seems to be related to an optimal functioning of the immune system, pointing out that polymorphisms for the immune system genes, which are involved in the regulation of immune-inflammatory responses, may play a key role in the genetics of ageing. This review provides an update in the field of ageing related to inflammation and genetics.

The kynurenine system and immunoregulation

There is developing interest in the role of the kynurenines in the immune function. A considerable amount of evidence has accumulated as concerns interactions between the kynurenine pathway, cytokines and the nervous system. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) occupies a key position connecting the immune system and the kynurenine pathway. There are evidences of the immunosuppressive effect of IDO. Following the interferon (IFN)-mediated activation of antigen presenting cells, the induction of IDO and the kynurenine system exerts a counter-regulating effect, maintaining the homeostasis. Inhibition of T cell functions, activation of the regulatory T cells, and the inhibition of Natural Killer cells are among the important factors in the immunosuppressive effects of IDO and kynurenines. There is a close connection between cytokines (IFN-α, IFN-γ, TNF-α, TGF-β, IL-4 and IL-23) and the kynurenine system, and an imbalance in the TH1/TH2 cytokine profile may possibly lead to neurologic or psychiatric disorders. As the tryptophan metabolic pathway is activated by pro-inflammatory stimuli, the anti-inflammatory effect of kynurenic acid provides a further feedback mechanism in modulating the immune responses.

Immunogenetics of ageing

The ageing process is very complex. Human longevity is a multifactorial trait which is determined by genetic and environmental factors. Twin and family studies imply that up to 25% of human lifespan is heritable. The longevity gene candidates have generally fallen into the following categories: inflammatory and immune-related factors, stress response elements, mediators of glucose and lipid metabolism, components of DNA repair and cellular proliferation and mitochondrial DNA haplogroups. Because of the central role of HLA molecules in the development of protective immunity and the extraordinary degree of polymorphism of HLA genes, many studies have addressed the possible impact of these genes on human longevity. Most of the data available so far demonstrated a possible role of HLA class II specificities in human longevity but definitive evidence has remained elusive. Although the data are limited and controversial, it has been hypothesized that longevity could be associated with cytokine gene polymorphisms correlating with different levels of cytokine production, thereby modulating immune responses in health and disease. Because of the essential role of cytokines in immune responses, the regulation of cytokine gene expression and their polymorphic nature, the genetic variations of these loci with functional significance could be appropriate immunogenetic candidate markers implicated in the mechanism of successful ageing and longevity. In addition, several other genes such as Toll-like receptor genes, Cycloxygenases (COX)/Lipoxygenases (LOX), CCR5, NK receptor genes and MBL2 have been assessed as a possible biomarkers associated with ageing. This review will summarize the data on the role of these immune genes in human longevity.

'Immunogenetics of Aging': report on the activities of the 15th International HLA and Immunogenetics Working Group and 15th International HLA and Immunogenetics Workshop

'Immunogenetics of Aging' is a component that was first included in the 14th International HLA and Immunogenetics Workshop (IHIWS) and developed further within the 15th Workshop. The aim of this component was to assess the impact of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes, cytokine genes, and some innate immunity genes such as killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) and mannose-binding lectin 2 (MBL2) in successful aging and their contribution to the better understanding of immune dysfunction in old age. Within the 15th IHIWS new populations were included in the analysis. Additional cytokine gene polymorphisms were assessed and innate immunity genes were analyzed for possible relevance in longevity. The results showed that longevity might be associated with anti-inflammatory cytokine gene profiles, decreased frequency of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and transforming growth factor-B1 haplotypes associated with a low level of gene expression, and increased frequency of haplotypes determining a high level of expression. Extended tumor necrosis factor-A and IL-12B genotypes were also likely relevant to longevity. Data also showed that innate immunity genes are associated with susceptibility to infections in the elderly and showed that these genes might be an important genetic marker in aging. Decreased frequencies of KIR2DS5 and A1B10 haplotypes, and an increased proportion of MBL2-deficient haplotypes were found in the group with higher cytomegalovirus-specific IgG antibody levels. Together, these studies emphasize the relevance of genes regulating immune functions in maintaining human longevity and stress the importance of further clarifying their impact on successful aging.

Interferon-gamma-inducible kynurenines/pteridines inflammation cascade: implications for aging and aging-associated psychiatric and medical disorders

This review of literature and our data suggests that up-regulated production of interferon-gamma (IFNG) in periphery and brain triggers a merger of tryptophan (TRY)-kynurenine (KYN) and guanine-tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) metabolic pathways into inflammation cascade involved in aging and aging-associated medical and psychiatric disorders (AAMPD) (metabolic syndrome, depression, vascular cognitive impairment). IFNG-inducible KYN/pteridines inflammation cascade is characterized by up-regulation of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity (induced by KYN) and decreased formation of NOS cofactor, BH4, that results in uncoupling of NOS that shifting arginine from NO to superoxide anion production. Superoxide anion and free radicals among KYN derivatives trigger phospholipase A2-arachidonic acid cascade associated with AAMPD. IFNG-induced up-regulation of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), rate-limiting enzyme of TRY-KYN pathway, decreases TRY conversion into serotonin (substrate of antidepressant effect) and increases production of KYN associated with diabetes [xanthurenic acid (XA)], anxiety (KYN), psychoses and cognitive impairment (kynurenic acid). IFNG-inducible KYN/pteridines inflammation cascade is impacted by IFNG (+874) T/A genotypes, encoding cytokine production. In addition to literature data on KYN/TRY ratio (IDO activity index), we observe neopterin levels (index of activity of rate-limiting enzyme of guanine-BH4 pathway) to be higher in carriers of high (T) than of low (A) producers alleles; and to correlate with AAMPD markers (e.g., insulin resistance, body mass index, mortality risk), and with IFN-alpha-induced depression in hepatitis C patients. IFNG-inducible cascade is influenced by environmental factors (e.g., vitamin B6 deficiency increases XA formation) and by pharmacological agents; and might offer new approaches for anti-aging and anti-AAMPD interventions.

The role of interferon-γ in the pathogenesis of acute intra-abdominal sepsis

Several studies indicate that IFN-γ facilitates systemic inflammation during endotoxin-induced shock. However, the pathobiology of IFN-γ in clinically relevant models of septic shock, such as CLP, is not well understood. In this study, the role of IFN-γ in the pathogenesis of CLP-induced septic shock was evaluated by examining IFN-γ production at the tissue and cellular levels. The impact of IFN-γ neutralization on systemic inflammation, bacterial clearance, and survival was also determined. Following CLP, concentrations of IFN-γ in plasma and peritoneal lavage fluid were low in comparison with concentrations of IL-6 and MIP-2, as was IFN-γ mRNA expression in liver and spleen. The overall percentage of IFN-γ+ splenocytes was <5% after CLP and not statistically different from control mice. Intracellular IFN-γ was present in a large proportion of peritoneal exudate cells after CLP, primarily in infiltrating myeloid cells and NK cells. i.p. myeloid cell activation was decreased in IFN-γKO mice, and plasma concentrations of IL-6 and MIP-2 were significantly lower in IFN-γKO mice and in mice treated with anti-IFN-γ compared with controls, but bacterial clearance was not affected. IFN-γKO mice were resistant to CLP-induced mortality when treated with systemic antibiotics. However, neutralization of IFN-γ with blocking antibodies did not improve survival significantly. These studies show that IFN-γ facilitates the proinflammatory response during CLP-induced septic shock. However, neutralization of IFN-γ did not improve survival uniformly.

Association of longevity with IL-10 -1082 G/A and TNF-alpha-308 G/A polymorphisms

Cytokines are crucial for the regulation of inflammation development in humans. Many studies have shown that variations in cytokine genes might play a role in determining human longevity. This study examined the changes in the gene pool relevant to the -308 G/A polymorphism in the promoter region of the proinflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha gene and the -1082 G/A polymorphism in the promoter region of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 gene with aging and survival selection occurs in the Jordanian population. IL-10 -1028 G/A and TNF-alpha-308 G/A were genotyped in 119 randomly selected elderly subjects (41 women and 78 men) with a mean age of 90.2 years and young control subjects of 118 (46 women and 72 men) with a mean age of 31.9 years. No significant differences were found in the genotype and allele frequencies of TNF-alpha gene variants between the two groups (P > 0.05) while the IL-10 genotype and allele frequencies were significantly associated with longevity in men (P < 0.05) but not in women (P < 0.05). Thus, IL-10 -1028 G/A polymorphism seems to play a role in the pathway to longevity in Jordanian men.

Human models of aging and longevity

BACKGROUND

The aging phenotype in humans is very heterogeneous and can be described as a complex mosaic resulting from the interaction of a variety of environmental, stochastic and genetic-epigenetic variables. Therefore, each old person must be considered as a singleton, and consequently the definition of 'aging phenotype' is very difficult.

OBJECTIVE

We discuss the phenotype of centenarians, the best example of successful aging, as well as other models exploited to study human aging and longevity, such as families enriched in long-living subjects, twins and cohorts of unrelated subjects.

METHODS

A critical review of literature available until March 2008.

CONCLUSIONS

No single model can be considered the gold standard for the study of aging and longevity, instead the combination of results obtained from different models must be considered in order to better understand these complex phenomena. We propose that a systems biology concept such as that of 'bow-tie' architecture, useful for managing information flow, could help in this demanding task.

Polymorphisms in cytokine genes influence long-term survival differently in elderly male and female patients

OBJECTIVES

We asked if single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in inflammatory cytokine genes related to 3-year survival in ill elderly subjects and if genotypes differed between the elderly and a younger control population.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

SETTING

Two geriatric departments at a university hospital.

SUBJECTS

Eighty three acutely admitted geriatric patients (83 +/- 7 year, 70% women) and 207 young healthy subjects (40 +/- 1 year, 37% women) were included.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the genes of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha-308 G/A, interleukin (IL)-1beta-511 C/T, IL-6-174 G/C and IL-10-1082 A/G were analysed. In the geriatric patients SNP in lymphotoxin (LT)-alpha +252 G/A and serum levels of TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-10, soluble IL-I receptor(R)II were also determined, as well as the 3-year mortality.

RESULTS

The allele distribution did not differ significantly between the elderly and the young. In the female elderly, 3-year survival was doubled (P < 0.05) in those with the high-producing genotypes of IL-6 -174 GG and TNF-alpha -308 GA compared with those with low-producing alleles. In contrast, men with high-producing LT-alpha +252 AA and IL-1beta-511 CT&TT genotypes displayed halved 3-year survival (P < 0.05) compared with those with low-producing genotypes, whereas possession of the high-producing IL-10 -1082 GG genotype favoured survival. Serum IL-10 was higher in the high-producing IL-10 genotype in females.

CONCLUSION

As high-producing IL-6 -174 genotype favoured 3-year survival in women, whereas the likewise high-producing LT-alpha +252 and IL-1beta -511 genotypes were associated with poor survival in men, we conclude that the specific genotypes, in association with gender, may act as determinants for survival in elderly patients.

14th International HLA and Immunogenetics Workshop: report on the immunogenetics of aging

The 'Immunogenetics of Aging' is a newly included component within the 14th International HLA and Immunogenetics Workshop. The aim of this component was to determine the contribution of human leukocyte antigen (HLA), cytokine genes and other major histocompatibility complex-encoded loci to successful aging and to determine an increased capacity to reach the extreme limits of life span. Two main data sets from four European populations were included in this study: unrelated healthy elderly individuals and ethnically matched young controls, and families with longevity members. Analysis was focused on HLA class I and II and cytokine gene polymorphisms. Preliminary results showed increased frequencies of DRB1*11- and DRB*16-associated haplotypes that were found to be protective for autoimmune diseases in some populations. Additionally, in families with longevity members, alleles and haplotypes positively associated with autoimmunity were not observed. Analysis of cytokine gene polymorphisms showed prevalence of anti-inflammatory profiles in healthy elderly individuals. Inheritance of extended haplotypes in families with longevity members allowed the identification of immunogenetic profiles that could be predictive for longevity. These preliminary studies indicate the relevance of genes regulating immune functions in human longevity and the importance of clarifying further their impact in successful aging.

Interferon-γ gene+874T–A polymorphism is associated with tuberculosis and gamma interferon response

Interferon-gamma is the most important cytokine in resistance to mycobacterial diseases and common variants of interferon-gamma gene could be related to tuberculosis susceptibility. We tested the hypothesis that the interferon-gamma+874T-A polymorphism is associated with tuberculosis disease, and affects the interferon-gamma response. We determined by pyrosequencing the distribution of the interferon-gamma+874T-A polymorphism in a Turkish population of 319 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis, 42 children with severe forms of tuberculosis and 115 healthy donors. We also analysed whether any correlation exists between this polymorphism and interferon-gamma response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens by ELISPOT in 58 pulmonary tuberculosis cases, and the results were analysed according to the genotypes. We found that the minor allele (T) frequency was significantly lower in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis when compared to controls (P=0.024, OR=0.7), a similarly significant decrease in the frequency of TT genotype was observed in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis, compared to the control group (P=0.02, OR=0.49). IFN-gamma responses to PPD antigen in TT genotype was found to be significantly higher than the AA group (P>0.001). Non-parametric correlation analysis of ELISPOT data showed significant reverse correlation in PPD, CFP10 and ESAT6 values and IFN-gamma +874 genotypes. These results show that the IFN-gamma +874T-A polymorphism is related to the IFN-gamma response and the magnitude of the response decreases during transition from TT- to TA and to AA genotypes. Our data suggest that similar to various Caucasian populations, in a Turkish population the IFN-gamma+874 T-A polymorphism is also associated with tuberculosis disease and affects the magnitude of the IFN-gamma response.

Polymorphism of interferon-gamma gene at position +874 and clinical characteristics of chronic hepatitis C

A T-to-A polymorphic sequence at position +874 in the interferon (IFN)-gamma gene (+874 IFN-gamma) might be associated with disease susceptibilities. To investigate the influence of +874 IFN-gamma polymorphism on the hepatitis C virus (HCV) viral load and the severity of liver disease, the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was determined in 302 histologically proved chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients [M/F: 180/122, mean age: 48.8 +/- 11.6 years, HCV genotype 1b: 147 (48.7%), liver cirrhosis: 29 (9.6%)] by using a polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific primers (PCR-SSP) approach. The distribution of genotypes for +874 IFN-gamma were T/T: 12 (4.0%), T/A: 71 (23.5%), and A/A: 219 (72.5%) and 27.5% (83/302) of patients' inherited T allele. The mean age of patients without A allele was significantly lower than other patients (41.7 +/- 11.3 vs 49.2 +/- 11.5 years, P = 0.028). Patients with the T allele of +874 IFN-gamma had a significantly higher rate of liver cirrhosis than patients with homozygote A allele (15.7% vs 7.3%, P = 0.028). By multivariate logistic regression analyses, T allele of +874 IFN-gamma and age were independent factors associated with cirrhosis (odds ratio/95% confidence interval: 2.519/1.128-5.622 and 1.065 /1.025-1.107, respectively). In conclusion, the authors' findings indicate that inheritance of +847 IFN-gamma polymorphism is associated with the cirrhosis in patients with CHC.

Association between the severity of Hashimoto's disease and the functional +874A/T polymorphism in the interferon-gamma gene

CD8+ CD25+-activated cytotoxic T cells and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb) are independently involved in the severity of Hashimoto's disease (HD). Interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) activates cytotoxic T cells. To evaluate the hypothesis that the functional +874A/T polymorphism in the gene encoding IFN-gamma is associated with the severity of HD, we examined the frequencies of this polymorphism in 34 HD patients who developed hypothyroidism (severe HD); 22 untreated, euthyroid HD patients (mild HD); 49 patients with intractable Graves' disease (GD); 16 GD patients in remission; and 57 healthy volunteers. Frequency of the +874T allele, which is associated with high IFN-gamma production, was higher in patients with severe HD than in those with mild HD (odds ratio [OR], 3.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-12.4; p = 0.047), but there was no difference in the frequency between GD patients. The difference in the frequency of +874T was observed in the subset of patients with HD negative for TgAb (OR, 8.4; 95% CI, 1.2-57.3; p = 0.029) but not in the subset of patients with HD positive for TgAb. Our data indicate that the +874A/T polymorphism in the IFN-gamma gene is associated with severity of HD.

Association of interleukin-10 promoter single nucleotide polymorphisms -819 T/C and -592 A/C with aging

Increased inflammatory activity is known to accompany aging. Single nucleotide polymorphisms of inflammatory mediator genes might therefore affect the aging process. Relation of eight SNPs (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-alpha] -1031 T/C, interleukin-10 [IL-10] -819 T/C, IL-1beta -511 C/T, IL-6 -634 C/G, IL-18 -607 A/C, transforming growth factor-beta [TGF-beta] +869 C/T, matrix metalloproteinase-1 [MMP-1] -1607 1G/2G, and MMP-3 -1171 5A/6A) with age or gender was evaluated in 500 Japanese persons (mean age: 56.7 years old, range: 19-100) by the chi-square test. There was a significant association of IL-10 -819 T/C with age (p =.0026). The association remained significant after multivariate logistic regression analysis (odds ratio for an age interval for 1 year, 1.009; 95% CI, 1.002-1.016). Furthermore, the genotype distribution of IL-10 -819 T/C was completely consistent with that of -592 A/C. These data suggest that IL-10 -819 T/C and -592 A/C may be a promising candidate for an aging-related gene in a Japanese population.

Human host genetic factors in nontuberculous mycobacterial infection: lessons from single gene disorders affecting innate and adaptive immunity and lessons from molecular defects in interferon-gamma-dependent signaling

Mendelian defects in interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) signaling most commonly lead to infection with nontuberculous mycobacteria. Mutations have been identified in the genes encoding IFN-gamma-receptor-1, IFN-gamma-receptor-2 and Stat-1. Partial and complete deficiencies in signaling are found, leading to parallel clinical, pathological, and cellular phenotypes. These rare defects have led to better molecular and mechanistic understanding of the role of IFN-gamma in the human immune system.

Association of the -183 polymorphism in the IFN-gamma gene promoter with hepatitis B virus infection in the Chinese population

Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) is a pleiotropic cytokine that plays an important role in regulating cellular immune responses. Regulation of IFN-gamma expression is considered to be strictly controlled at the transcriptional level. Two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the human IFN-gamma promoter (at positions -183 and -155) are considered to influence the promoter activity by altering the acting transcription factor-1 (AP-1) binding. We sought to assess the association between the SNPs of the IFN-gamma promoter and the host susceptibility to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, as well as its interaction with age and gender. No polymorphism at position-155 was detected in any of the participants, but a significant difference was found in the polymorphism at position -183 between the cases and controls (G/T and T/T vs. GG; P < 0.01, odds ratio (OR) = 4.50 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.23-9.09). A susceptibility analysis revealed a gradually increased trend of the OR value from the young to the old group (OR = 3.03, 4.17, and 5.56). Similarly, the association of the -183 polymorphism was markedly different in females (OR = 5.71). Our data suggest that the polymorphism at position -183 of the IFN-gamma gene promoter may be associated with susceptibility to HBV infection, and age and gender factors are coordinative risk factors.

Role of TLR4 receptor polymorphisms in Boutonneuse fever

The genetics of the interaction between host and microbes plays an essential role in the survival of the individual and attainment of longevity. The activation of toll-like receptor (TLR)4 plays a key role in natural and clonotypic immune responses. We evaluated whether TLR4 genotype is a component of genetic background protective versus rickettsiosis and whether this background influences longevity. We genotyped for +896A/G TLR4 polymorphism 78 patients affected with Boutonneuse fever, 78 age-matched controls and 78 advanced age individuals from Sicily. The +869G allele, that attenuates receptor signalling, was significantly overrepresented in patients in comparison with age-matched controls. By analyzing data according to gender, this allele was significantly higher in female patients when compared to advanced age women. Pro-inflammatory responses are programmed to resist fatal infections. So, it is not surprising that the genetic background of people that survive to an advanced age may be protective against infections. However, this seems to occur in women but not in men. In a previous study, the +896G TLR4 allele was overrepresented in advanced age men and underrepresented in men affected by myocardial infarction. Thus, previous and present results tend to agree with the suggestion that men and women may follow different trajectories to reach longevity. For men it might be more important to control atherogenesis, whereas for women it might be more important to control infectious diseases.

Role of the pyrin M694V (A2080G) allele in acute myocardial infarction and longevity: a study in the Sicilian population

A proinflammatory genotype seems to contribute significantly to the risk of developing coronary heart disease (CHD). Conversely, the susceptibility alleles to inflammatory disease should be infrequent in the genetic background favoring longevity. In fact, in a modern environment, attainment of longevity is facilitated by an anti-inflammatory status. To evaluate whether inflammatory alleles of pyrin, the gene responsible for familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) may play an opposite role in CHD and in longevity, we examined three FMF-associated mutations, M694V (A2080G), M694I (G2082A), and V726A (T2177C), encoded by the FMF gene (MEFV) in 121 patients affected by acute myocardial infarction (AMI), in 68 centenarians, and in 196 age-matched controls from Sicily. None of the Sicilian subjects studied carried the V726A and the M694I FMF-related mutations. The proinflammatory M694V (A2080G) mutation was the only one we found, which was over-represented significantly in CHD patients and under-represented in oldest old, and intermediate values were in healthy, young controls. After adjustment for well-recognized AMI risk factors, the M694V allele still predicted a significant risk to develop AMI. So, according to these results, we suggest that carrying the proinflammatory M694V pyrin allele may increase the risk to develop AMI. Conversely, the wild-type pyrin genotype may predispose to a greater chance to live longer in a modern environment with reduced pathogen load and improved control of severe infections by antibiotics. All these data indicate a strong relationship among inflammation, genetics, CHD, and longevity.

Contribution of an affect-associated gene to human longevity: prevalence of the long-allele genotype of the serotonin transporter-linked gene in Japanese centenarians

Negative affect such as depression and anxiety has been reported to be associated with morbidity and mortality, and polymorphisms of the serotonin transporter (5HTT) gene may be associated with such affect disorders. Hypothesizing that 5HTT gene polymorphisms could influence human longevity via negative affect; we compared the polymorphic variation of the 5HTT gene between 265 Japanese centenarians and control subjects. In addition, we evaluated the relationships between the 5HTT genotype and the physical, cognitive, and biologic status of centenarians, as indicated by the Barthel Index, the Mini-Mental State Examination, and serum albumin concentration, respectively. The frequency of the l/l genotype and the l allele was significantly greater in centenarians than in younger control subjects, particularly women. A significant effect of the 5HTT genotype on serum albumin concentration was observed in both sexes. Although, there was sex optionality, the l allele may carry a longevity advantage possibly through behavioral mechanisms.

Common promoter polymorphisms of inflammation and thrombosis genes and longevity in older adults: The cardiovascular health study

Inflammatory response genes may influence life span or quality at advanced ages. Using data from the population-based cardiovascular health study (CHS) cohort, we examined the associations between promoter polymorphisms of several inflammation and thrombosis genes with longevity. We ascertained genotypes for interleukin (IL)-6 -174 G/C, beta-fibrinogen -455 G/A, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 -675 4G/5G, and thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) -438 G/A in 2224 men and women > or = 65 years old at baseline. During 10 years of follow-up, men with the TAFI -438 A/A genotype had decreased mortality due to all causes, and lived, on average, 0.9 more years of life, or 1.1 more years of healthy life, than men with the -438 G allele. The effects of TAFI -438 G/A in women were smaller and not statistically significant. PAI-1 4G/4G genotype appeared to be associated with lower non-cardiovascular mortality in men, but with greater cardiovascular mortality in women. In exploratory analyses, we observed a possible interaction among anti-inflammatory drugs, interleukin-6 -174 C/C genotype, and longevity. These findings suggest that modulators of fibrinolytic activity may have a generalized influence on aging, and merit further investigation in studies of genetic determinants of human longevity.