Altered mechanisms of thermoregulatory vasoconstriction in aged human skin.
Human exposure to cold stimulates cutaneous vasoconstriction by activating both sympathetic reflex and locally mediated pathways. Older humans are vulnerable to hypothermia because primary aging impairs thermoregulatory cutaneous vasoconstriction. This article highlights recent findings discussing how age-related decrements in sympathetic neurotransmission contribute directly to thermoregulatory impairment, whereas changes in local cold-induced intracellular signaling suggest a more generalized age-associated vascular dysfunction.
Thompson-Torgerson
Caitlin S
CS
Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA. cthomp44@jhmi.edu
Holowatz
Lacy A
LA
Kenney
W Larry
WL
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological / Q000502:physiology*; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D001833:Body Temperature Regulation / Q000502:physiology*; D003080:Cold Temperature; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply*; D012879:Skin Physiological Phenomena; D014661:Vasoconstriction / Q000502:physiology*