The role of salt for immune cell function and disease

Abstract

The immune system evolved to protect organisms from invading patho-gens. A network of pro- and anti-inflammatory cell types equipped withspecial effector molecules guarantees efficient elimination of intruders likeviruses and bacteria. However, imbala nces can lead to an excessiveresponse of effector cells incurring autoimmune or allergic diseases. Aninterplay of genetic and environmental factors contributes to autoimmunediseases and recent studies provided evidence for an impact of dietaryhabits on the immune status and related disorders. Western societiesunderwent a change in lifestyle associated with changes in food consump-tion. Salt (sodium chloride) is one component prevalent in processed foodfrequently consume d in western countries. Here we summarize recentadvances in understanding the mechanisms behind the effects of sodiumchloride on immune cells like regula tory T cells (Tregs) and T helper(TH) 17 cells and its implication as a risk factor for several diseases.