Age-related changes of erythrocyte membrane in the senescence-accelerated mouse.

Age-related changes in erythrocytes in senescence-accelerated mice (SAM-P) and control mice with normal aging characteristics (SAM-R) were examined. A significant decrease in the number of erythrocytes and significant increases in MCV and ATP levels were observed with aging in SAM-P, while no significant changes were seen in SAM-R. Erythrocytes in aged SAM-P were less fragile than those in aged SAM-R. The contents of cholesterol and phospholipids in erythrocyte membranes increased significantly in aged SAM-P, but the molar ratio of cholesterol/phospholipid decreased. The plasma cholesterol level of SAM-P decreased with aging. Changes such as those observed in SAM-P were not seen in SAM-R during the period of observation.