Preserved immune functions and controlled leukocyte oxidative stress in naturally long-lived mice: possible role of nuclear factor kappa B.

In order to verify the survival biomarker role of several immune functions, and to determine the oxidation and inflammation mechanisms underlying variability in the aging process, we have investigated a variety of immune functions and oxidative stress parameters as well as activation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF kappaB) in peritoneal leukocytes from four different age groups of mice, including natural extreme longevity. Immune cells from naturally long-lived animals showed preservation of immune function in response to stimuli and controlled oxidative stress as well as nuclear factor kappa B activation in resting conditions. Moreover, leukocytes from extreme long-lived animals showed increased catalase activity when compared with the adults. In contrast, the old and very old animal groups showed impaired immune function and increased oxidation as well as NF kappaB activation. Our results support preserved immune function as a biomarker of extended survival and point to controlled regulation of NF kappaB activity as a key mechanism restraining oxidative stress in immune cells and contributing to reach longevity.