Immunity to influenza: Impact of obesity

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2019Source: Obesity Research & Clinical PracticeAuthor(s): Sandra Angélica Rojas-Osornio, Teresita Rocío Cruz-Hernández, Maria Elisa Drago-Serrano, Rafael Campos-RodríguezAbstractObesity is a health concern that is recognized as a critical factor for vulnerability to influenza A/pdmH1N1 virus infection, with epidemiological and clinical impacts. In humans, obesity induces disturbances in inflammatory and immune responses to the influenza virus and in some cases, this leads to severe complications, with fatal outcomes. Obesity impairs immunity by altering the response of cytokines, resulting in a decrease in the cytotoxic cell response of immunocompetent cells which have a key anti-viral role. Additionally, obesity seems to disturb the balance of endocrine hormones, such as leptin, that affect the interplay between metabolic and immune systems. This contribution focuses on reviewing the current epidemiologic data for the immune response to immunity in obese humans and animal models. In doing so, we aim to provide potential mechanisms to enhance immunity to influenza A/pdmH1N1 virus infection and protective factors in obese people.
Source: Obesity Research and Clinical Practice - Category: Eating Disorders & Weight Management Source Type: research