Role of Vitamin C in Immune Function of Human Body

Abstract

Vitamin C is an important micronutrient for humans with pleiotropic function associated with its ability to
donate electrons. It is a potent antioxidant and a cofactor for a family of biosynthetic and gene regulatory
enzymes. Vitamin C contributes to immune system defense by supporting various cellular functions of
both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C supports epithelial barrier function against
environmental oxidative stress. Vitamin C accumulates in phagocytic cells like neutrophils, and may
enhance chemotaxis, phagocytosis, generation of reactive oxygen species and ultimately microbial killing.
It is also needed for apoptosis and clearance of the spent neutrophils from sites of infection by macrophages.
Vitamin C deficiency leads to impaired immunity and better susceptibility to infections. In turn infections
significantly impact on Vitamin C levels thanks to enhanced inflammation and metabolic requirements. In
contrast treatment of established infections requires a significantly higher dose of vitamin to catch up on
the increased inflammatory response and metabolic demand.one of the most reasons people take vitamin c
supplements is to spice up their immunity as vitamin C is involved in many parts of the immune system.
First, vitamin c helps encourage the assembly of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes
which helps to protect the body against various infections. Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can boost
blood antioxidant levels and vitamin c rich foods and supplements have been linked to reduce blood uric
acid levels. Many studies show vitamin c intake lower risk of several cancers and also reduced risks of eye
diseases . Vitamin Cis an essential nutrient for healthy immune function. The main aim of the paper is to
know the role of Vitamin C in immune function of the human body.