[Effect of age on the activity of Mg-Na-K-ATPase, as well as on the K and Na concentration in human erythrocytes]

Abstract

42 persons of two age groups (14--28 years and 70--87 years) free of liver and hematological diseases without treatment with cardiac glycosides were investigated in this study. The activities of Mg++-ATPase and Na+-K+-ATPase were measured in red cell membranes. Furthermore the intracellular concentration of sodium and potassium was measured in erythrocytes of 10 persons. These results display a significant age dependent decrease of enzyme activities. Contrary to this, measurements of intracellular sodium and potassium concentrations disclosed no age dependent changes. There was no positive or negative correlation between the enzyme activities and the intracellular concentrations of sodium and potassium. The influence of 8 different drugs on Mg++-ATPase activities was proofed. The results displayed changes dependent on age and drug concentrations. The results were discussed with those of the literature.