Metabolic Pathways And The Immune System

Immune cell function is deeply intertwined with cellular metabolism, and distinct metabolic pathways shape the behavior of different immune subsets. Glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway fuel rapid proliferation and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion in effector T cells and M1 macrophages, driving robust immune responses. In contrast, fatty acid oxidation and the TCA cycle support long-lived memory CD8 T cells and regulatory T cells, promoting immune tolerance and sustained functionality. Key metabolites like NADPH and Acetyl-CoA not only provide energy but also influence oxidative stress and nucleotide synthesis, impacting cell survival and differentiation. Understanding these metabolic signatures offers critical insight into immune regulation and potential therapeutic strategies. Explore how metabolic programming defines immune phenotypes and their roles in health and disease.