A detective story of intermittent fasting effect on immunity

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Metabolic Science
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Intermittent fasting (IF) involves cyclical fasting periods, impacting energy metabolism.
• Metabolic alterations from IF can influence immune system function.
• Understanding the IF-immune system interplay is crucial for health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of intermittent fasting's effects on the immune system.
• To explore the mechanisms linking metabolic changes during IF to immune responses.
• To examine IF's implications for autoimmune diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on intermittent fasting and the immune system.
• Analysis of research on metabolic pathways affected by IF (lipids, hormones, circadian rhythms, autophagy, oxidative stress).
• Examination of IF's impact on gut microbiota and intestinal barrier integrity.

Main Results:

• IF induces multifaceted changes in energy metabolism.
• These metabolic shifts interact with immune system components.
• IF influences lipid metabolism, hormonal balance, circadian rhythms, autophagy, oxidative stress, gut microbiota, and intestinal barrier integrity.
• Research findings indicate IF's effects on immune function and autoimmune conditions.

Conclusions:

• Intermittent fasting significantly impacts the immune system through various metabolic pathways.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms at the intersection of IF, metabolism, and immunity.
• IF shows potential implications for managing immune-related and autoimmune diseases.