Number of sons contributes to ageing-associated inflammation

Sci Rep. 2015 Feb 27:5:8631. doi: 10.1038/srep08631.

Abstract

The rate of inflammation increases in elderly individuals, a phenomenon called inflammaging, and is associated with degenerative diseases. However, the causes of inflammaging and the origin of the associated inflammatory mediators have remained enigmatic. We show herein that there is a positive correlation between the number of sons born and C-reactive protein concentrations in 90-year-old women. This association is influenced by HLA genetics known to regulate the immune response against HY antigens.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging / blood*
  • Aging / immunology
  • C-Reactive Protein / metabolism
  • Female
  • H-Y Antigen / immunology
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / genetics
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / blood
  • Inflammation / genetics
  • Nuclear Family
  • Parity
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • H-Y Antigen
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I
  • C-Reactive Protein