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Research: MEYDANI and HAN,
Listed in Issue 123
Abstract
MEYDANI and HAN, Nutritional Immunology Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA, simin.meydani@tufts.edu, have reviewed (105 references) vitamin E and immune functioning in the elderly. Abstract: Nutritional status has been implicated in age-related dysregulation of the immune response. Vitamin E is important for normal function of immune cells. The elderly are at a greater risk of lower than recommended vitamin E intake. Vitamin E supplementation above currently recommended levels has been shown to improve immune functions in the elderly including delayed-type hypersensitivity skin response and antibody production in response to vaccination. This was shown to be mediated through increased production of interleukin-2, leading to enhanced proliferation of T cells, and through reduced production of prostaglandin E(2), a T-cell suppressive factor. Vitamin E increased both cell-dividing and interleukin-producing capacities of T cells. The vitamin E-induced enhancement of immune functions in the aged was associated with significant improvement in resistance to influenza infection in aged mice and a reduced risk of acquiring upper respiratory infections in nursing home residents. Further studies are needed to determine the signalling mechanisms involved in the immune-enhancing mechanisms of vitamin E.
Background
Methodology
Results
Conclusion
References
Meydani SN, Han SN. Wu D. Vitamin E and immune response in the aged: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications. Immunological Reviews 205 : 269-284, Jun 2005.
Comment
There have been numerous such research studies documenting the benefits of supplements including vitamin E in the health, immunity and longevity of the elderly.
