Journal article
The number of p16INK4a positive cells in human skin reflects biological age
Mariette EC Waaijer, William E Parish, Barbara H Strongitharm, Diana van Heemst, Pieternella E Slagboom, Anton JM de Craen, John M Sedivy, Rudi GJ Westendorp, David A Gunn, Andrea B Maier
AGING CELL | WILEY-BLACKWELL | Published : 2012
Abstract
Cellular senescence is a defense mechanism in response to molecular damage which accumulates with aging. Correspondingly, the number of senescent cells has been reported to be greater in older than in younger subjects and furthermore associates with age-related pathologies. Inter-individual differences exist in the rate at which a person ages (biological age). Here, we studied whether younger biological age is related to fewer senescent cells in middle-aged individuals with the propensity for longevity, using p16INK4a as a marker for cellular senescence. We observed that a younger biological age associates with lower levels of p16INK4a positive cells in human skin.
Grants
Awarded by SenterNovem
Awarded by FP6
Funding Acknowledgements
This work was funded by SenterNovem, IGE01014 and IGE5007, NGI/NWO; 05040202 and 050-060-810, Unilever PLC and FP6 036894.