Age-related decrease of ultraviolet light-induced DNA repair synthesis in human peripheral leukocytes.

The capacity for ultraviolet light-induced DNA repair synthesis, studied in peripheral leukocytes from 58 healthy subjects 13 to 94 years old, was found to vary greatly between individuals. A negative, statistically significant correlation was obtained between age 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.