scholarly journals The Role of Nutrients in Supporting The Immune System Against Viral Infection; Newly Emerged Coronavirus (COVID-19): A Narrative Review

2020 ◽  
pp. 84-96
Author(s):  
Halgord Ali Farag ◽  
Hardi Rafat Baqi ◽  
Yousif Taha Hussein ◽  
Osama Hamid Shareef ◽  
Syamand Ahmed Qadir ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Oxidative Stress ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Viral Infection ◽  
Immune Function ◽  
Immune Cells ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Antioxidant Properties ◽  
Narrative Review ◽  
Peak Performance

Balanced nutrition is vital for peak performance of immune function, especially when a global pandemic is emerging, and there is major lack in approved treatments for it. Many nutrients and their abundance in cells induce immune function. We performed a narrative review to describe existing literature with regard to role of nutrients in supporting the immune system against viral infection including coronavirus (SARS-COV-2). PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were searched for relevant articles. This review represents a picture of the current state of the art. In particular, we classified the nutrients by means of their types, abundance, importance and possible antiviral effects in immune system. The macronutrients such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins are essential for cells to generate energy and participate in immune function as well. However, unbalanced diet with high levels of macromolecules could lead to chronic diseases that impair the body’s immune abilities. The micronutrients including vitamins and minerals participate in immune system on a bigger scale that almost all body’s immune mechanism depends on the expressions of micronutrients. Vitamins improve immune responses. Some vitamins include A, D, K, B, and C enroll in antiviral mechanism of the immune cells. A group of trace elements including zinc, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, and iron are heavily contributed in maintaining body’s immunity. The susceptibility toward the infectious diseases is highly elevated in cases of their deficiencies. Besides their antiviral roles, vitamins such as E and C with minerals in the cells adopt antioxidant properties that help immune cells to fight oxidative stress in the cells. Nevertheless, the high levels of minerals such as iron could threat the immune system by growing the oxidative stress. So, maintaining rich and balanced nutrition could improve body’s immune function, and possibly prevent viral infections including COVID-19.

scholarly journals Innate immune responses in RNA viral infection

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Qian Xu ◽  
Yuting Tang ◽  
Gang Huang
Keyword(s):  
Innate Immunity ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Viral Infection ◽  
Immune Cells ◽  
Innate Immune System ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Adaptive Immune System ◽  
Innate Immune ◽  
Past Century ◽  
Main Role

AbstractRNA viruses cause a multitude of human diseases, including several pandemic events in the past century. Upon viral invasion, the innate immune system responds rapidly and plays a key role in activating the adaptive immune system. In the innate immune system, the interactions between pathogen-associated molecular patterns and host pattern recognition receptors activate multiple signaling pathways in immune cells and induce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and interferons to elicit antiviral responses. Macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells are the principal innate immune components that exert antiviral activities. In this review, the current understanding of innate immunity contributing to the restriction of RNA viral infections was briefly summarized. Besides the main role of immune cells in combating viral infection, the intercellular transfer of pathogen and host-derived materials and their epigenetic and metabolic interactions associated with innate immunity was discussed. This knowledge provides an enhanced understanding of the innate immune response to RNA viral infections in general and aids in the preparation for the existing and next emerging viral infections.

scholarly journals Hepadnaviral Lymphotropism and Its Relevance to HBV Persistence and Pathogenesis

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carla S. Coffin ◽  
Patricia M. Mulrooney-Cousins ◽  
Tomasz I. Michalak
Keyword(s):  
Immune System ◽  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Antiviral Therapy ◽  
Immune Cells ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Hepatitis Virus ◽  
Viral Persistence ◽  
Lymphoid Cells ◽  
Pathogenic Variants

Since the discovery of hepatitis B virus (HBV) over five decades ago, there have been many independent studies showing presence of HBV genomes in cells of the immune system. However, the nature of HBV lymphotropism and its significance with respect to HBV biology, persistence and the pathogenesis of liver and extrahepatic disorders remains underappreciated. This is in contrast to studies of other viral pathogens in which the capability to infect immune cells is an area of active investigation. Indeed, in some viral infections, lymphotropism may be essential, and even a primary mechanism of viral persistence, and a major contributor to disease pathogenesis. Nevertheless, there are advances in understanding of HBV lymphotropism in recent years due to cumulative evidence showing that: (i) lymphoid cells are a reservoir of replicating HBV, (ii) are a site of HBV-host DNA integration and (iii) virus genomic diversification leading to pathogenic variants, and (iv) they play a role in HBV resistance to antiviral therapy and (v) likely contribute to reactivation of hepatitis B. Further support for HBV lymphotropic nature is provided by studies in a model infection with the closely related woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) naturally infecting susceptible marmots. This animal model faithfully reproduces many aspects of HBV biology, including its replication scheme, tissue tropism, and induction of both symptomatic and silent infections, immunological processes accompanying infection, and progressing liver disease culminating in hepatocellular carcinoma. The most robust evidence came from the ability of WHV to establish persistent infection of the immune system that may not engage the liver when small quantities of virus are experimentally administered or naturally transmitted into virus-naïve animals. Although the concept of HBV lymphotropism is not new, it remains controversial and not accepted by conventional HBV researchers. This review summarizes research advances on HBV and hepadnaviral lymphotropism including the role of immune cells infection in viral persistence and the pathogenesis of HBV-induced liver and extrahepatic diseases. Finally, we discuss the role of immune cells in HBV diagnosis and assessment of antiviral therapy efficacy.

scholarly journals The Role of Immune Cells in Oxi-Inflamm-Aging

Cells ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (11) ◽  
pp. 2974
Author(s):  
Irene Martínez de Toda ◽  
Noemi Ceprián ◽  
Estefanía Diaz-Del Cerro ◽  
Mónica De la Fuente
Keyword(s):  
Oxidative Stress ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Immune Cells ◽  
Low Grade ◽  
Inflammatory Stress ◽  
Immune Systems ◽  
Age Related ◽  
Chronic Oxidative Stress ◽  
Inflammatory State

Aging is the result of the deterioration of the homeostatic systems (nervous, endocrine, and immune systems), which preserve the organism’s health. We propose that the age-related impairment of these systems is due to the establishment of a chronic oxidative stress situation that leads to low-grade chronic inflammation throughout the immune system’s activity. It is known that the immune system weakens with age, which increases morbidity and mortality. In this context, we describe how the function of immune cells can be used as an indicator of the rate of aging of an individual. In addition to this passive role as a marker, we describe how the immune system can work as a driver of aging by amplifying the oxidative-inflammatory stress associated with aging (oxi-inflamm-aging) and inducing senescence in far tissue cells. Further supporting our theory, we discuss how certain lifestyle conditions (such as social environment, nutrition, or exercise) can have an impact on longevity by affecting the oxidative and inflammatory state of immune cells, regulating immunosenescence and its contribution to oxi-inflamm-aging.

Role of Rasayana in Prevention of COVID-19 - A Review

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (SPL1) ◽  
pp. 716-722
Author(s):  
Sneha Dhakite ◽  
Sadhana Misar Wajpeyi
Keyword(s):  
Immune System ◽  
Respiratory System ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
The Body ◽  
Healthy Life ◽  
Vital Functions ◽  
Healthy Life Style ◽  
And Control

The “Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19)” is caused by “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)”, a newly discovered member of the Coronaviridae family of viruses which is a highly communicable. There is no effective medical treatment till date for Coronavirus disease hence prevention is the best way to keep disease away. Rasayana proved to be highly efficacious and cost effective for the Prevention and Control of viral infections when vaccines and standard therapies are lacking. Rasayana Chikitsa is one of the eight branches of Ashtanga Ayurveda which helps to maintain healthy life style. Rasayana improves immunity and performs many vital functions of human body. Vyadhikshamatva that is immune mechanism of the body is involved in Prevention of the occurrence of a new disease and it also decreases the virulence and progression of an existing disease. In COVID-19 the Respiratory system mainly get affected which is evident from its symptoms like cold, cough and breathlessness. Here the drugs help in enhancing immune system and strengthening functions of Respiratory system can be useful. For this purpose, the Rasayana like Chyavanprasha, Agastya Haritaki, Pippali Rasayana, Guduchi, Yashtimadhu, Haridra, Ashwagandha, Tulsi are used. Rasayana working on Respiratory system are best for Prevention of Coronavirus and boosting immune system. Rasayana Chikitsa can be effective in the Prevention as well as reducing symptoms of COVID-19.

scholarly journals Coenzyme Q10 and Immune Function: An Overview

Antioxidants ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (5) ◽  
pp. 759
Author(s):  
David Mantle ◽  
Robert A. Heaton ◽  
Iain P. Hargreaves
Keyword(s):  
Immune System ◽  
Immune Function ◽  
Coenzyme Q10 ◽  
Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain ◽  
Inflammatory Gene Expression ◽  
Optimal Functioning ◽  
Human Immune ◽  
Coq10 Supplementation ◽  
Lipid Soluble Antioxidant

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has a number of important roles in the cell that are required for optimal functioning of the immune system. These include its essential role as an electron carrier in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, enabling the process of oxidative phosphorylation to occur with the concomitant production of ATP, together with its role as a potential lipid-soluble antioxidant, protecting the cell against free radical-induced oxidation. Furthermore, CoQ10 has also been reported to have an anti-inflammatory role via its ability to repress inflammatory gene expression. Recently, CoQ10 has also been reported to play an important function within the lysosome, an organelle central to the immune response. In view of the differing roles CoQ10 plays in the immune system, together with the reported ability of CoQ10 supplementation to improve the functioning of this system, the aim of this article is to review the current literature available on both the role of CoQ10 in human immune function and the effect of CoQ10 supplementation on this system.

scholarly journals Protective Role of Natural and Semi-Synthetic Tocopherols on TNFα-Induced ROS Production and ICAM-1 and Cl-2 Expression in HT29 Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Antioxidants ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 160
Author(s):  
Vladana Domazetovic ◽  
Irene Falsetti ◽  
Caterina Viglianisi ◽  
Kristian Vasa ◽  
Cinzia Aurilia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Oxidative Stress ◽  
Antioxidant Properties ◽  
Intestinal Barrier ◽  
Protective Role ◽  
Intercellular Adhesion Molecule ◽  
Intestinal Epithelial ◽  
Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 ◽  
Beneficial Effects ◽  
Bowel Diseases

Vitamin E, a fat-soluble compound, possesses both antioxidant and non-antioxidant properties. In this study we evaluated, in intestinal HT29 cells, the role of natural tocopherols, α-Toc and δ-Toc, and two semi-synthetic derivatives, namely bis-δ-Toc sulfide (δ-Toc)2S and bis-δ-Toc disulfide (δ-Toc)2S2, on TNFα-induced oxidative stress, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and claudin-2 (Cl-2) expression. The role of tocopherols was compared to that of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), an antioxidant precursor of glutathione synthesis. The results show that all tocopherol containing derivatives used, prevented TNFα-induced oxidative stress and the increase of ICAM-1 and Cl-2 expression, and that (δ-Toc)2S and (δ-Toc)2S2 are more effective than δ-Toc and α-Toc. The beneficial effects demonstrated were due to tocopherol antioxidant properties, but suppression of TNFα-induced Cl-2 expression seems not only to be related with antioxidant ability. Indeed, while ICAM-1 expression is strongly related to the intracellular redox state, Cl-2 expression is TNFα-up-regulated by both redox and non-redox dependent mechanisms. Since ICAM-1 and Cl-2 increase intestinal bowel diseases, and cause excessive recruitment of immune cells and alteration of the intestinal barrier, natural and, above all, semi-synthetic tocopherols may have a potential role as a therapeutic support against intestinal chronic inflammation, in which TNFα represents an important proinflammatory mediator.

Acute Stress Induced Behavioral Deficits In Rats: Relationship With Oxidative Stress, Leptin And HPA Axis

2019 ◽  
Vol 41 (5) ◽  
pp. 859-859
Author(s):  
Erum Shireen Erum Shireen ◽  
Wafa Binte Ali Wafa Binte Ali ◽  
Maria Masroor Maria Masroor ◽  
Saeeda Bano Saeeda Bano ◽  
Samina Iqbal Samina Iqbal ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Oxidative Stress ◽  
Open Field ◽  
Hpa Axis ◽  
Acute Stress ◽  
Antioxidant Properties ◽  
Oxidative Enzymes ◽  
Behavioral Deficits ◽  
Glucose Estimation ◽  
Dark Transition

Acute exposure to stress is connected to many disorders that promote the toxicity of oxygen radical generators leading to increase in the levels of enzymes and also the activation of the HPA axis. The present study uses a preclinical approach to elucidate some prospective stress-induced behavioral and biochemical effects. The aim of current study was to investigate the relationship between stress and behavioral changes after exposing animals to 2h immobilization stress. We also evaluated the concentration of corticosterone, glucose and endogenous leptin levels in unstressed and stressed animals to explore the possible role of HPA axis in the modulation of stressed induced behavioral deficits. Rats were divided into stressed and unstressed groups. Behavioral activities were monitored in open field activity and light dark transition box after the termination of 2h immobilization period. Animals were then decapitated and plasma samples were collected for catalase, SOD, corticosterone, and glucose estimation. Results showed that exposure to acute stress produced a significant decrease in the activity of rats in the novel environment (open field) and light dark transition box. On the other hand, concomitant elevated level of peripheral markers of oxidative stress such as oxidative enzymes, corticosterone and endogenous leptin were also observed. Therefore, current study seems to suggest an important role of compounds having antioxidant properties for the treatment of stress and related disorders.

scholarly journals The Role of Micronutrients in Support of the Immune Response against Viral Infections

Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (10) ◽  
pp. 3198 ◽  
Author(s):  
Francesco Pecora ◽  
Federica Persico ◽  
Alberto Argentiero ◽  
Cosimo Neglia ◽  
Susanna Esposito
Keyword(s):  
Fatty Acids ◽  
Immune Response ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Omega 3 Fatty Acids ◽  
Omega 3 ◽  
Optimal Function ◽  
The Impact

Viral infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and the importance of public health practices including handwashing and vaccinations in reducing their spread is well established. Furthermore, it is well known that proper nutrition can help support optimal immune function, reducing the impact of infections. Several vitamins and trace elements play an important role in supporting the cells of the immune system, thus increasing the resistance to infections. Other nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, help sustain optimal function of the immune system. The main aim of this manuscript is to discuss of the potential role of micronutrients supplementation in supporting immunity, particularly against respiratory virus infections. Literature analysis showed that in vitro and observational studies, and clinical trials, highlight the important role of vitamins A, C, and D, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc in modulating the immune response. Supplementation with vitamins, omega 3 fatty acids and zinc appears to be a safe and low-cost way to support optimal function of the immune system, with the potential to reduce the risk and consequences of infection, including viral respiratory infections. Supplementation should be in addition to a healthy diet and fall within recommended upper safety limits set by scientific expert bodies. Therefore, implementing an optimal nutrition, with micronutrients and omega-3 fatty acids supplementation, might be a cost-effective, underestimated strategy to help reduce the burden of infectious diseases worldwide, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

scholarly journals Aging and Options to Halt Declining Immunity to Virus Infections

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Miguel Ángel Palacios-Pedrero ◽  
Albert D. M. E. Osterhaus ◽  
Tanja Becker ◽  
Husni Elbahesh ◽  
Guus F. Rimmelzwaan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Immune Function ◽  
Adaptive Immunity ◽  
Bacterial Infections ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Age Group ◽  
Virus Infections ◽  
Innate And Adaptive Immunity ◽  
Chronic Viral Infections

Immunosenescence is a process associated with aging that leads to dysregulation of cells of innate and adaptive immunity, which may become dysfunctional. Consequently, older adults show increased severity of viral and bacterial infections and impaired responses to vaccinations. A better understanding of the process of immunosenescence will aid the development of novel strategies to boost the immune system in older adults. In this review, we focus on major alterations of the immune system triggered by aging, and address the effect of chronic viral infections, effectiveness of vaccination of older adults and strategies to improve immune function in this vulnerable age group.

scholarly journals Adipocytes, Innate Immunity and Obesity: A Mini-Review

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alecia M. Blaszczak ◽  
Anahita Jalilvand ◽  
Willa A. Hsueh
Keyword(s):  
Adipose Tissue ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Immune Cells ◽  
Adaptive Immune System ◽  
Innate Immune ◽  
Lymphoid Cells ◽  
Innate Immune Cells ◽  
Adaptive Immune

The role of adipose tissue (AT) inflammation in obesity and its multiple related-complications is a rapidly expanding area of scientific interest. Within the last 30 years, the role of the adipocyte as an endocrine and immunologic cell has been progressively established. Like the macrophage, the adipocyte is capable of linking the innate and adaptive immune system through the secretion of adipokines and cytokines; exosome release of lipids, hormones, and microRNAs; and contact interaction with other immune cells. Key innate immune cells in AT include adipocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, and innate lymphoid cells type 2 (ILC2s). The role of the innate immune system in promoting adipose tissue inflammation in obesity will be highlighted in this review. T cells and B cells also play important roles in contributing to AT inflammation and are discussed in this series in the chapter on adaptive immunity.

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