Childhood infection and modern malnutrition: Do childhood infections create an inflammatory foundation for atherosclerosis in adult life?

摘要

Simplified scheme how childhood infections may create an inflammatory foundation for the pro-atherogenic influences of malnutrition and lifestyle factors. Early atherosclerotic changes develop in infancy and childhood, with established lesions documented in adolescence and progressing age-dependently in adulthood. Pathogen challenge during development activates both arms of the immune systems, triggering acute inflammation to clear the invading pathogen; a constellation of resolving mediators directs timely resolution of inflammation and supports healing and repair of injured tissues. Failure of this pathway leads to sustained inflammation that promotes atheroma progression. A healthy diet and active lifestyle in adulthood will support resolving mechanisms and counteract chronic inflammatory pathways. Conversely, poor nutrition, low physical activity and unhealthy lifestyle choices will in adulthood impair resolution and promote a chronic inflammatory state, directly and through secondary actions related to comorbidities and stress factors.