The Methotrexate effect in the inhibition of cell divisions in the elderly

Abstract

The aging is influenced by genetic and nutritional factors as well as by the exposition to free radicals, radiation and genotoxic substances. The cell sensitivity to mutagenic substances increases as the individual grows old and may contribute to accelerate his/her aging process. This paper analyzes the Methotrexate (MTX) effect, an agent which induces chromosomal breaks in the inhibition of the cell reproduction in old people and in a control group. The sample comprised 10 elderly people, from 92 to 114 years old, and 12 members of the control group, 20 to 25 years old. The cells for analyses were obtained from lymphocytes temporary culture, together with MTX. Statistical analysis was carried out with Kruskal-Wallis and Friedman tests. MTX was efficient to reduce cell divisions with significant statistical results. The mitosis rate was low as far as the old people were concerned, even when not treated with MTX, what showed that the aging process has to do with the reduction of the cell reproductive capacity.