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Development of Immunocompetence

Development of Immunocompetence

The initiation of cell-mediated immunity can be observed as early as the third month of fetal growth, with active antibody-mediated immunity following approximately one month later.
The initial cells that migrate from the fetal thymus settle within the skin and epithelial tissues lining the mouth, digestive tract, and in females, the uterus and vagina. These cells, including skin-based dendritic cells, serve as antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in T cell activation.
Subsequent T...

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Updated: Sep 10, 2025

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Maternal Extra Virgin Olive Oil Supplementation Enhances Offspring Immune Function: A Preclinical Study.

Sonia Zhan-Dai^1,2, Blanca Grases-Pintó^1,2, Adriana García-Vara^1,2

¹Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

|August 28, 2025

Summary

Maternal extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) supplementation enhanced offspring immune development, evidenced by increased immunoglobulin G2c. It also promoted intestinal health, suggesting benefits for infant development and immunity.

Keywords:

extra virgin olive oil immune system maternal supplementation offspring

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Published on: June 28, 2024

Area of Science:

Nutrition Science
Immunology
Developmental Biology

Background:

Maternal diet significantly impacts offspring's long-term health, including immune function and gut integrity.
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), a cornerstone of the Mediterranean Diet, is rich in beneficial compounds.
Understanding the specific effects of maternal EVOO intake on offspring development is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the impact of maternal extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) supplementation on the immune system and intestinal health of offspring.
To evaluate changes in plasma immunoglobulin G2c (IgG2c) and small intestine histology in pups from mothers supplemented with EVOO.
To assess the in vitro effects of EVOO metabolites on intestinal barrier function.

Main Methods:

Lewis rat dams were assigned to diets with refined olive oil (ROO), EVOO, or a control (water) during gestation and lactation.
Offspring plasma IgG2c levels were quantified.
Small intestine tissues were analyzed histologically for goblet cell counts.
In vitro assays examined the cytotoxicity and barrier integrity effects of EVOO metabolites.

Main Results:

Offspring born to mothers supplemented with EVOO exhibited significantly elevated plasma IgG2c concentrations.
Histological examination of the small intestine revealed an increased number of goblet cells in the EVOO group.
In vitro studies indicated that EVOO metabolites were non-cytotoxic and enhanced intestinal barrier function under stress.

Conclusions:

Maternal supplementation with extra virgin olive oil positively influences offspring immune system development.
EVOO intake during gestation and lactation may improve intestinal barrier function in offspring.
These findings highlight the potential of EVOO as a beneficial dietary component for maternal and infant health.