Summary of immunomodulating effects of LBPs
A number of in vitro and in vitro studies have revealed the immunomodulating activities of LBPs (Figure 9). LBPs promote the proliferation and activity of splenocytes, T cells, B cells, macrophages, and NK cells. LBPs induce IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α production in splenocytes. LBPs stimulate PBMCs to produce IL-2 and TNF-α. IL-2 stimulates growth and differentiation of T cells. LBPs promote T lymphocytes and macrophages to release important cytokines such as IL-10 and TNF-α. LBPs activate macrophages and upregulate the expressions of CD40, CD80, CD86, and MHC-II molecules. LBPs activate transcription factors NF-κB and AP-1, induce TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-12p40 expression in macrophages. LBPs significantly enhance macrophage endocytic and phagocytic capacities. LBPs promote the cytotoxicity of NK cells by enhancing IFN-γ and perforin release and the expression of the activating receptors NKp30 and NKG2D. LBPs also stimulate macrophages and NK cells to release TNF-α and IL-1β. LBPs activate the transcription factors NFAT and AP-1 and prompt CD25 (IL-2 receptor-α) expressions. LBPs induce the maturation of DCs and improve their antigen-presenting function. LBPs can upregulate the expression of CD40, CD80, CD86, and MHC-II molecules in bone marrow- and peripheral blood-derived DCs, downregulate DC uptake of antigen (Ag), enhance allostimulatory activity of DCs, and induce the production of IL-12p40 and p70 in DCs. LBP-treated DCs can enhance both Th1 and Th2 responses. LBPs potentiate the immune responses of DNA vaccine against C. abortus in mice. LBPs activate CXCR5+PD-1+ Tfh cells and induce IL-21 secretion. Dietary wolfberry supplementation enhances both in vivo and ex vivo T-cell response to specific antigens. Elderly persons who consume Lacto-Wolfberry for 3 months show higher serum influenza-specific IgG concentrations and seroconversion rate after receiving an influenza vaccine.