For the first time, a revealing study highlights Harmful and lasting effects of smoking on the immune system.
This investigation conducted by the Pasteur Institute points the finger Profound changes caused by cigarettes in the body’s ability to defend itself against microbial attack. While smokers seem to carry the stigma of their toxic habit, researchers are revealing the mechanisms underlying this immune transformation.
In this unprecedented investigation, Darragh Duffy, Head of the Translational Immunology Unit at the Institut Pasteur, shows the underside of an insidious immune system change, Affects both the inflammatory response and the adaptive mechanisms of the defense system. Through a careful analysis of the immune system of more than a thousand individuals, the study, published in the prestigious journal Nature, sheds light on a new chapter in understanding the harms of tobacco on health.
Smoking, BMI and cytomegalovirus
The study focused on intercellular communication through cytokines, Proteins secreted by immune cells, To assess the quality of the immune response.
Blood samples from participants in the “internal environment” cohort were exposed to various microorganisms, Reveals diverse and complex immune responses.
Changes in the adaptive immune system persist for decades.
Among the main factors distinguishing individuals with altered immune responses, Smoking, body mass index (BMI) and occult cytomegalovirus infection emerged as major influences, as well as age, gender and genetic factors.
Increased inflammatory response
The researchers shed light Two notable abnormalities in smokers: an acute inflammatory response in the event of infection and altered activity of cells involved in immune memory.
This observation highlights The deleterious effect of tobacco on the innate and adaptive defense mechanisms of the immune system, Thus the risk of infectious complications and chronic inflammation increases in smokers.
Persistence of effects after smoking cessation
Although the inflammatory response appears to normalize rapidly after smoking cessation, Changes in the adaptive immune system persist for decades.
This discovery highlights the immune memory of the system, Those who retain the after effects of smoking even after stopping this harmful habit.
What affects immune memory?
Similarities between the immune profiles of current and former smokers have raised questions about the mechanisms underlying this persistent immune memory.
Researchers have identified epigenetic modifications of DNA, Changes in the expression of genes involved in the metabolism of immune cells.
This discovery opens new perspectives To better understand the effects of smoking on the immune system, Both in healthy individuals and in people suffering from various pathologies.
By revealing the profound changes induced by smoking in the immune system, This study highlights the critical importance of prevention and smoking cessation for maintaining health.
In addition to the known cardiovascular and pulmonary risks, Smoking also leaves an indelible mark on the body’s ability to defend itself Against infectious and inflammatory diseases.
