Age-related decrease of the LAMP-2 gene expression in human leukocytes

ObjectiveAutophagy is a highly conserved degradation pathway in cells, which has been involved in many physiological processes and implicated in human age-related diseases. However, autophagy activities have not been systemically investigated with human tissues and cells.MethodsLysosomal associated membrane protein-2 (LAMP-2) protein is critical for autophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy. We examined LAMP-2 gene expression and protein levels in the peripheral leukocytes from healthy subjects over 40 years old.ResultsCompared to those in group of 40–44 years, the LAMP-2 transcript and protein levels in groups of 65–69 (P < 0.01) and over 70 years (P < 0.001) were significantly decreased. No significant difference in LAMP-2 transcript and protein levels were observed between male and female groups.ConclusionsOur data revealed that there was a progressive and age-related decrease of the LAMP-2 gene expression in the peripheral leukocytes of healthy subjects, indicating a trend of decreasing autophagy activities with aging.

► LAMP-2 gene expression was examined in peripheral leukocytes from human subjects.
► LAMP-2 gene expression and protein levels were decreased in an age-related manner.
► No significant difference was observed between male and female groups.
► The data indicated an age-related decline of autophagy activities in humans.