The influence of the biological age on function of endothelial progenitor cells

Abstract

Aging in relation to organism biology is a gradual loss of restoration potential. Biological age is a subject of interest in many fields as genetics, nephrology and oncology. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are responsible for regeneration of endothelium. The dysfunction of EPCs, which seems to be the consequence of the aging process, may lead to the development of cardiovascular disorders. EPCs disturbances may reduce EPCs number, impair the migration ability and clonogenic potential of EPCs. This paper presents some aspects of aging process of EPCs according to the latest reports concerning the biological age. It contains the description of biological age conception. Moreover it shows the chosen markers of biological age (telomeres, proteins regulating cell cycle, proteases) and modulating factors like administered medications and ingested chemical compounds. Some therapeutic actions which may interfere in biological age are also presented.
Kardiol Pol 2010; 68, supl. V: 405-411