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Review
. 2018 Mar 20;16(1):75.
doi: 10.1186/s12967-018-1448-0.

The influence of diet on anti-cancer immune responsiveness

Laura Soldati  1 , Laura Di Renzo  2 , Emilio Jirillo  3 , Paolo A Ascierto  4 , Francesco M Marincola  5 , Antonino De Lorenzo  2
Affiliations
Review

The influence of diet on anti-cancer immune responsiveness

Laura Soldati et al. J Transl Med. .

Abstract

Immunotherapy has matured into standard treatment for several cancers, but much remains to be done to extend the reach of its effectiveness particularly to cancers that are resistant within each indication. This review proposes that nutrition can affect and potentially enhance the immune response against cancer. The general mechanisms that link nutritional principles to immune function and may influence the effectiveness of anticancer immunotherapy are examined. This represents also the premise for a research project aimed at identifying the best diet for immunotherapy enhancement against tumours (D.I.E.T project). Particular attention is turned to the gut microbiota and the impact of its composition on the immune system. Also, the dietary patterns effecting immune function are discussed including the value of adhering to a healthy diets such as the Mediterranean, Veg, Japanese, or a Microbiota-regulating diet, the very low ketogenic diet, which have been demonstrated to lower the risk of developing several cancers and reduce the mortality associated with them. Finally, supplements, as omega-3 and polyphenols, are discussed as potential approaches that could benefit healthy dietary and lifestyle habits in the context of immunotherapy.

Keywords: Cancer; Functional supplements; Healthy diet; Immunotherapy; Microbiome.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The role of dietary patterns on microbiota composition and immune system function. Dysbiosis induces cytokines production and NF-kB-mediated local inflammation, promoting tumorigenesis. In the left part of the figure are shown the main mechanisms of interaction between a healthy diet, a balanced gut bacterial flora and the immune system. In the right part are shown alterations of the immune system, intestinal barrier and pathological pathways due to an unhealthy diet and unbalanced gut microbiota
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
The benefits of functional nutrients on immune system and inflammation. Role of natural compounds on molecular target to correct immune system alterations, prevent and modulate the onset of cancerous disease
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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