Immune Dysfunction as a Cause and Consequence of Malnutrition

Malnutrition, which encompasses under- and overnutrition, is responsible for an enormous morbidity and mortality burden globally. Malnutrition results from disordered nutrient assimilation but is also characterized by recurrent infections and chronic inflammation, implying an underlying immune defect. Defects emerge before birth via modifications in the immunoepigenome of malnourished parents, and these may contribute to intergenerational cycles of malnutrition. This review summarizes key recent studies from experimental animals, in vitro models, and human cohorts, and proposes that immune dysfunction is both a cause and a consequence of malnutrition. Focusing on childhood undernutrition, we highlight gaps in…

• BA
  Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

  Award: OPP1131320
• W
  Wellcome

  Award: 108065/Z/15/Z
• WT
  Wellcome Trust
• DF
  Department for International Development
• MR
  Medical Research Council

  Award: MR/M007367/1