AGE-RELATED DECREASE OF ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT-INDUCED DNA-REPAIR SYNTHESIS IN HUMAN PERIPHERAL LEUKOCYTES

Abstract

The capacity for UV light-induced DNA repair synthesis, studied in peripheral leukocytes from 58 healthy subjects 13-94 yr old, varied greatly between individuals. A negative, statistically significant correlation was obtained between aged and this synthesis, indicating a decrease in repair capacity with age. An age-related decrease in DNA repair may increase the susceptibility of cells to agents causing DNA damage, i.e., carcinogens and certain cytostatic drugs.