Research summary
The immune system is an organism’s defense system, protecting it from infections and diseases. But a variety of factors can weaken this system—and an important one is obesity. The health effects of obesity, including high blood sugar, poor insulin response and inflammation, are linked with immune system abnormalities and a higher risk of infection.
Dr. Caroline Richard, Canada Research Chair in Nutritional Immunology, is trying to understand how the metabolic complications of obesity affect the proper function of the immune system and how immune function can be improved through better nutrition. Over the long term, Richard and her research team aim to use nutritional interventions to improve immune function for individuals with obesity or related chronic diseases.