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Whole Blood Assay with Dual Co-Stimulation for Antigen-Specific Analysis of Host Immunity to Fungal and Viral Pathogens
Published on: September 20, 2024
Malnutrition and energy restriction differentially affect viral immunity
Barry W Ritz1, Elizabeth M Gardner
1Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
The Journal of Nutrition
|April 15, 2006
Summary
Protein-energy malnutrition weakens immunity, especially in older adults. While energy restriction (ER) benefits aging, aged ER mice showed higher mortality from influenza, possibly due to insufficient energy for immune response.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Immunology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) impairs immunity and increases infection risk, particularly in aging.
- Energy restriction (ER) without malnutrition extends lifespan and improves immune function in aging animals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of ER on aged mice's response to influenza infection.
- To explore the role of energy availability in immune response for aging populations.
Main Methods:
- Aged mice subjected to energy restriction were compared to controls.
- Mortality rates following primary influenza infection were assessed.
Main Results:
- Aged energy-restricted mice exhibited increased mortality from influenza compared to controls.
- Underweight status in ER mice may hinder energy allocation for immune defense.
Conclusions:
- Energy restriction's benefits in aging may be offset by increased susceptibility to certain infections.
- Adequate energy intake is crucial for mounting an effective immune response in undernourished aging individuals.
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