Abstract
This study examined the immunobiologic properties of the respiratory tract in young adult and aged rats. Macrophages obtained by lung lavage technique were enumerated and tested in vitro for migratory, phagocytic and fungicidal activities. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids from the animals were assessed for C5 cleaving activities. Circulatory antibody responses following intranasal immunization with influenza subunit vaccine were determined by ELISA technique. Total numbers of alveolar cells and their differential distribution were comparable between the two groups. Phagocytosis and fungicidal capabilities of the lung-derived macrophages at 60, 120, and 180 minutes of incubation were not different in young adult and aged animals. Random and directed migration of macrophages in vitro remained unaltered. C5 cleaving activities of the BAL fluids were significantly enhanced in the aged animals. In contrast, specific antibody responses to influenza vaccine declined in the aged rats compared to the young adult rats. Aging may adversely affect immunologic balance of the respiratory tract by reducing specific protective immune responses and enhancing ability to mount inflammatory reactions.
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