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The effects of diet-induced obesity on B cell function
S R Shaikh1, K M Haas, M A Beck
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina Heart Institute, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina Heart Institute, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
Clinical and Experimental Immunology
|August 30, 2014
Summary
Select B cell subsets are a therapeutic target for obesity-related inflammation and insulin resistance. Dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may improve B cell function and combat obesity complications.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Metabolic Diseases
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- B cells (B-1 and B-2 subsets) perform diverse immune functions including antibody production and cytokine secretion.
- Obesity is linked to chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction, with emerging evidence implicating B cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the functional roles of murine B cell subsets.
- To highlight B cells as a therapeutic target in obesity and its comorbidities.
- To discuss the impact of diet and lipid mediators on B cell function in obesity.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical rodent studies on B cell subsets in obesity.
- Analysis of the effects of high-fat diets on B cell accumulation and function.
- Examination of the role of regulatory B cells and lipid mediators.
Main Results:
- High-fat diets promote pro-inflammatory B cell phenotypes in visceral adipose tissue, exacerbating insulin resistance.
- Regulatory B cells secreting interleukin-10 (IL-10) counteract inflammation and improve glucose sensitivity.
- Supplementation with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids enhances B cell activation and antibody production.
Conclusions:
- Specific B cell subsets contribute to obesity-induced inflammation and insulin resistance.
- Regulatory B cells and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids show therapeutic potential for metabolic disorders.
- Understanding B cell regulation in obesity may offer new strategies against associated health risks.
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