Grant: CIHR Fellowship

Respiratory diseases (influenza, pneumonia) are a leading cause of death in older adults. With age, immune system functions decline and inflammation levels and associated cell damage, a process called oxidative stress (OXS), increase. These immune changes are related to increased infection risk or mortality. Fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake is thought to help decrease inflammation and OXS, contributing to increased life span and lower susceptibility to infection. Studies demonstrating benefits of higher F&V intake in reducing risk of disease do not provide sufficient evidence to make strong public health recommendations and policy changes to increase F&V consumption across the lifespan. Only a few laboratories can conduct long-term nutrition studies, including the Human Nutrition Research Centre on Aging. The goal of my postdoctoral research is to determine the effect of long-term F&V intake on life span and age-related immune functions. Using a rodent model, male and female mice will be fed a diet supplemented with the human equivalent of up to 5-7 F&V servings/day, beginning in early adulthood (4 months, mo). The effect of F&V intake on parameters of immune function and OXS/inflammation will be studied throughout their lifespan up to 28 mo (survival rate of 50%). Inflammation and OXS, response to influenza and vaccine, and measures of immune function will be assessed in early adulthood, middle adulthood (~16 mo) and 28 mo of age. We hypothesize that consuming a diet high in F&V will reduce OXS and inflammation, which will delay or reduce the age-related deteriorations in immune function, improving the vaccine and infection response and increase health and life span. This project will provide a fundamental understanding of the role of F&V on the immune system within the context aging. This evidence is crucial for improving the health of the aging population and providing evidence-based recommendations to increase F&V intake, a key component of Canada's Food Guide.