Research summary
More than seven million Canadians are obese. Obesity is accompanied by a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation where a nutritional, hormonal and inflammatory imbalance collectively affects immune function. As a result, obese people often develop other chronic health conditions—such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease—and are more susceptible to infections and cancer.
Dr. Sue Tsai, Canada Research Chair in Immunometabolism, is studying the reciprocal interactions between the metabolic, hormonal and immune systems in obesity. Using sophisticated genetic tools, she and her research team aim to understand how these interactions contribute to disease. They are focusing on how immune cells use nutrients to support their function. Ultimately, they hope to uncover new ways to improve immunity.