Phenotypic and Functional Considerations in the Evaluation of Immunity in Nutritionally Compromised Hosts

Abstract

It is well established that proper nutrition is critical to the development of an effective immune system and to enhance the natural immunosurveillance and its effector mechanisms. This enhancement could be mediated either by increasing the frequency and absolute numbers of effector cells or by up-regulation of the cellular mechanisms by which these effector cells carry out their functions. Even in the Western world, large sectors of society often remain undernourished and show suboptimal immune responses, but the relationship between nutrition and immunity is best seen in developing and underdeveloped countries. Although there are many large-scale field studies that investigate the issue of nutrition and immunity, there are relatively few data that go beyond descriptive measurements and directly address how well the immune system functions. This review summarizes interactions between nutrition and immunity and focuses on practical aspects for evaluation of the immune function in the field.

The effect of total immunoglobulin levels, mass and condition on the first‐year survival of Grey Seal pups

“…genetic and immunological) as determinants of mortality are the subject of some debate (Owens & Wilson 1999). The fact that poor or limited nutrition is often associated with suboptimal immune responses (Gershwin, Borchers & Keen 2000) has led to the hypothesis that there is a significant energetic cost to mounting an immune reaction. The contention is that individuals must compromise between energy devoted to life-history activities, such as growth and reproduction and that required for a robust immune system.…”

Impact of Protein Supplementation and Care and Support on Body Composition and CD4 Count Among HIV-Infected Women Living in Rural India: Results from a Randomized Pilot Clinical Trial

“…Acquired immune parameters such as diminished effector T and B cell response and suppressed production of lymphocytes in general occurs in conditions of protein-calorie malnutrition (44-46). Protein-energy malnourishment also promotes impairment of innate immune factors such as complement and diminished phagocytic activity (47).…”

Nutrition for Multiples

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