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Carica papaya increases regulatory T cells and reduces IFN‐γ + CD4 + T cells in healthy human subjects
Author(s) -
Abdullah Maha,
Chai PeiShin,
Loh ChiewYee,
Chong MunYee,
Quay HuaiWei,
Vidyadaran Sharmili,
Seman Zainina,
Kandiah Mirnalini,
Seow HengFong
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
molecular nutrition and food research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.495
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1613-4133
pISSN - 1613-4125
DOI - 10.1002/mnfr.201100087
Subject(s) - interleukin 7 receptor , carica , il 2 receptor , flow cytometry , in vitro , inflammation , interleukin 10 , immunology , regulatory t cell , biology , cytokine , t cell , immune system , biochemistry , botany
Fruit and vegetables have therapeutic potential as they dampen inflammation, have no known side‐effects and as whole foods have prospective additive and synergistic benefits. Th1 (IFN‐γ + CD4 + )/Th2 (IL‐4 + CD4 + ) T cells play a vital role in mediating inflammatory responses and may be regulated by regulatory T cells (Tregs). Effects of Carica papaya on cells of healthy individuals were determined using flow cytometry methods. Significant down‐regulation of IFN‐γ + CD4 + ( p =0.03, n =13), up‐regulation of IL‐4 + CD4 + ( p =0.04, n =13) T cells and up‐regulation of CD3 + CD4 + CD25 + CD127 − ( p =0.001, n =15) Tregs were observed after papaya consumption. In vitro cultures showed up‐regulation of Tregs in male subjects and was significantly associated with levels of IL‐1β in culture supernatants ( R 2 =0.608, p =0.04, n =12). Other inflammatory cytokines were significantly suppressed. Papaya consumption may exert an anti‐inflammatory response mediated through Tregs and have potential in alleviating inflammatory conditions.