From the Guidelines
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in supporting immune function, particularly in T and B cell function.
Key Functions of Vitamin C
- Acts as a potent water-soluble antioxidant, scavenging radicals and mitigating oxygen radical production 1
- Important cofactor/cosubstrate for biosynthesis of various hormones and collagen 1
- Limits inflammatory response and improves host defense, which is essential for immune cell function 1
- Plays a role in epigenetic regulation, suppressing response element-controlled genes and mitigating chronic inflammation 1
Immune Function Support
- Essential for immune function, particularly in older adults who are vulnerable to infections due to reduced immune function 1
- Low vitamin C status can contribute to morbidity and mortality in older adults, making it a potentially correctable factor 1
- Supports T and B cell function by promoting a healthy immune response and reducing oxidative stress 1
From the Research
Role of Vitamin C in T Cell Function
- Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the development, differentiation, and functional properties of T cells, with its antioxidant capacity being highly relevant in immune responses 2
- Vitamin C can enhance the transcription potential of genes by promoting DNA demethylation, which is critical for T cell development and differentiation 2
- Vitamin C has been shown to impact immune cell differentiation at various levels, including maturation and/or functionality of T cells and their progenitors 3
- Vitamin C enhances proliferation and effector functions of γδ T cells, making it a potential booster for cancer immunotherapy in adoptive cell transfer 3, 4
Role of Vitamin C in B Cell Function
- Vitamin C has been shown to enhance differentiation and proliferation of B-cells, likely due to its gene regulating effects 5
- Vitamin C is essential for maintaining tissue integrity and plays a crucial role in formation of skin, epithelial, and endothelial barriers, which can indirectly support B cell function 6
Overall Impact of Vitamin C on Immune Function
- Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system 5
- Vitamin C deficiency results in impaired immunity and higher susceptibility to infections, while supplementation with vitamin C can prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections 5
- Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting excessive activation of the immune system and supporting antibacterial activity 6