In recent years, advances in genetic research have led to new approaches to improving immunity and preventing disease. This article provides a detailed explanation of the relationship between genes and immunity, the latest research trends, and methods for strengthening immunity using genetic information.
1. The basic relationship between genes and immunity
●What is immunity?
Immunity refers to the body’s defense function to fight pathogens such as viruses and bacteria and maintain health. This immunity is classified into two types: **innate immunity (natural immunity) and acquired immunity (adaptive immunity).**
Innate immunity : A naturally occurring immune system that quickly eliminates foreign substances. Immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils are involved.
Acquired immunity : This type of immunity is acquired through infection or vaccination, and involves T cells and B cells. It remembers pathogens encountered in the past and responds quickly to reinfection。
● The influence of genes on immunity
An individual’s immune system is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, but recent research has revealed that certain genes influence the function of the immune system.
For example, the HLA (human leukocyte antigen) gene is one of the major gene groups involved in immune responses. It is known that the strength of the response to pathogens varies depending on the type of HLA gene. In addition, the IFNG (interferon gamma) gene affects the immune response during viral infection and is thought to be related to the severity of influenza and the new coronavirus.
Research has shown that some people are genetically predisposed to have stronger immune systems and are less susceptible to infections, while others are at risk of developing autoimmune diseases due to certain genetic factors that can cause an overactive immune system.
2. The latest approach to strengthening immunity through genetic research
● Personalized medicine using genetic analysis
In recent years, advances in genetic analysis technology have led to a focus on ” precision medicine, ” which analyzes each individual’s immune characteristics at the genetic level and provides optimal immune-boosting measures for each individual .
For example, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified thousands of genes involved in immunity, allowing us to predict an individual’s immune response in advance and select optimal vaccination and nutritional support approaches.
● Optimizing immunity with CRISPR
Attempts are underway to strengthen the immune system by editing specific genes using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. For example, a technology has been developed to artificially introduce a genetic mutation (CCR5Δ32 mutation) that confers resistance to HIV, preventing viral infection. Furthermore, in cancer immunotherapy, CAR-T therapy has been put into practical use, which can more effectively attack cancer cells by modifying the genes of immune cells.
3. Methods for improving immunity using genetic information
● 1. Learn about your immune characteristics through genetic testing
Genetic testing is an effective way to learn about the strength of your immune system and your risk. HLA genotype testing can tell you whether you are resistant to infectious diseases. There are now many personal DNA testing services available, allowing you to easily perform analysis at home.
● 2. Lifestyle that enhances the expression of immune-related genes
Although some aspects are determined by genes, it is also possible to optimize immune gene expression through environmental factors and lifestyle habits.
Moderate exercise : Exercise has been shown to reduce inflammation and activate immune cells.
A balanced diet : Vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are known to promote immune-related gene expression.
Quality sleep : Lack of sleep reduces immune gene expression and increases the risk of infection.
● 3. Optimizing the relationship between intestinal flora and genes
Gut bacteria are responsible for approximately 70% of immune function, and their balance interacts with genes. Recent research has shown that increasing the diversity of gut bacteria improves immunity and regulates the expression of certain genes. Taking probiotics (lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria) can help create an intestinal environment that is beneficial to the immune system.
5. Examples of applications of strengthening immunity based on genetic information
By utilizing genetic information, new methods are being developed one after another to optimize individual immunity. Here we will introduce some practical application examples.
● 1. Vaccine development using genetic data
Vaccine effectiveness varies depending on an individual’s genotype. For example, research has shown that immune responses to influenza and COVID-19 vaccines vary depending on the type of HLA gene.
Recently, AI has been used in vaccine design, and attempts are being made to develop vaccines that are optimal for each individual based on genetic information. For example, mRNA vaccines may be able to elicit individually adapted immune responses by incorporating genetic sequences that activate the immune system.
● 2. Risk prediction and prevention of immune diseases
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, etc.) are largely related to genetic factors. By understanding the risk of developing these diseases in advance through genetic analysis, it is possible to take preventive measures.
For example, one study found that mutations in the IL-6 gene increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases, suggesting that people with this specific gene mutation may be able to reduce their risk by increasing their intake of anti-inflammatory foods (such as fish and nuts containing omega-3 fatty acids).
Related research: Relationship between IL-6 gene mutations and autoimmune diseases – Journal of Immunology
● 3. Improving immune function using gene editing technology
CRISPR-Cas9 technology is being used to enhance the function of immune-related genes and increase defenses against infectious diseases and cancer.
Introduction of HIV resistance genes : Research is underway to prevent HIV infection by artificially introducing the CCR5Δ32 mutation.
Advances in cancer immunotherapy : CAR-T therapy has been developed, which genetically modifies immune cells to more powerfully attack cancer cells.
Related research : Latest trends in using CRISPR to boost the immune system – Science
After understanding genetic information, we will introduce specific methods for improving immunity that can be incorporated into daily life.
● 1. The relationship between nutrition and gene expression
Certain nutrients are known to promote the expression of immune-related genes.
Vitamin D : Increases HLA gene expression and strengthens immune function. Sun exposure and supplement intake are effective.
Zinc : Involved in activating T cells and effective in preventing colds and infections. Found in abundance in oysters, nuts, and red meat.
Polyphenols : Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Found in green tea, blueberries, and red wine.
Related research : The relationship between nutrients and gene expression – Cell
● 2. Sleep and gene regulation
It has been confirmed that lack of sleep reduces the expression of immune-related genes and increases the risk of infection. In particular, the PER2 gene is closely related to sleep rhythms and immune response, and ensuring adequate sleep can boost immunity.
Point
Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep a day.
Avoid blue light and create an environment that promotes melatonin secretion.
● 3. Interaction between intestinal flora and genes
Gut bacteria have a significant impact on immune function, and their balance interacts with genes. For example, the TLR4 gene is involved in regulating gut bacteria and immune responses, and improving the intestinal environment can boost immunity.
Research into improving immunity using genetic information is expected to continue to evolve in the future. In particular, advances in personalized medicine using AI will usher in an era in which optimal immune regulation programs can be provided for each individual. Furthermore, advances in gene editing technology may make treatments targeting immune-related genes safer and more effective.
8. The future of immune system strengthening using genetic information
As genetic research advances, the possibilities for personalized medicine and healthcare are expanding. We will consider how genetic information can be utilized to improve immunity in the future.
● 1. Personalized immunotherapy using genetic testing
In conventional medicine, the same vaccines and treatments are applied to everyone, but with the advancement of personalized medicine based on genetic information, it will be possible to select treatments that are appropriate for each individual.
For example, in cancer immunotherapy , efforts are beginning to determine which immunotherapies will be most effective based on a patient’s genetic profile, and immune checkpoint inhibitors have been shown to be particularly effective for patients with certain genetic mutations (e.g., overexpression of PD-L1).
Related research : Latest trends in personalized immunotherapy and genetic diagnosis – The Lancet Oncology
Furthermore, in the fight against infectious diseases , analyzing an individual’s HLA genotype will make it possible to predict in advance which vaccines will be effective and optimize vaccination plans.
● 2. Strengthening immunity using AI and big data
To utilize genetic information, it is necessary to analyze huge amounts of data. In recent years, **AI (artificial intelligence)** has been playing an active role in the field of genetic research, making it possible to more accurately predict the relationship between immunity and genes.
Specific examples of immunology research using AI
Optimizing vaccine development
Using AI, we analyze the compatibility between genetic mutations and vaccines and propose more effective vaccination plans.
For example, AI-based genetic analysis was used in the development of an mRNA vaccine for the new coronavirus.
Risk prediction for immune diseases
AI combines genetic information and lifestyle data to calculate the risk of developing immune-related diseases (allergies, autoimmune diseases, etc.).
By taking preventative measures in advance, it is possible to prevent the onset of the disease.
● 3. Evolution of gene editing technology and ethical issues
Advances in gene editing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 will also make it possible to strengthen the immune system.
The potential for improving immunity through gene editing
Modification of HIV resistance gene : Introducing the CCR5Δ32 mutation to prevent HIV infection.
Strengthening allergy resistance : Modifying allergy-related genes reduces the risk of food allergies and hay fever.
Strengthening cancer immune cells : Genetically modifying immune cells to enable them to attack cancer cells more efficiently.
However, gene editing also raises ethical issues, and careful discussion is required, especially since genetic modification of germ cells may have an impact on future generations.
Related research : Ethical issues surrounding immune gene modification using CRISPR – Science Ethics
● 4. The relationship between epigenetics and immunity
Even though genes themselves cannot be changed, it is possible to regulate the expression of immune-related genes from the perspective of **epigenetics**.
Epigenetics is a mechanism that controls gene function without changing the base sequence of DNA itself. Environmental factors and lifestyle habits are known to affect epigenetics, strengthening or weakening immune function.
Lifestyle habits that optimize immune gene expression
Fasting（断食）
Fasting has been shown to regulate the expression of immune-related genes and suppress inflammation.
Stress management
Chronic stress can alter the methylation patterns of immune-related genes, potentially weakening immunity.
By incorporating yoga and meditation, you can suppress the secretion of stress hormones and normalize gene expression
Calorie restriction and longevity genes
A low-calorie diet may increase the expression of the SIRT1 (sirtuin) gene and delay the aging of immune cells.
Related Research : Epigenetics and Immune Function Regulation – Epigenetics & Chromatin
9. Practical approaches to improving immunity using genetic information
Methods for boosting immunity based on genetic information can be applied not only to medical technology but also to everyday life. Here we will introduce some specific examples.
● 1. Optimal dietary strategies for each gene type
In recent years, advances in nutrigenomics research have revealed that differences in genes affect nutrient absorption and metabolism. By selecting the appropriate diet depending on the type of immune-related gene, immune function can be strengthened efficiently.
Relationship between HLA gene type and diet
HLA genes are involved in immune response, and people with certain HLA types have different tolerances or sensitivities to certain foods.
People with the HLA-DRB1 gene → Consuming foods with anti-inflammatory properties (omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, green tea) reduces the risk of autoimmune diseases.
People with HLA-DQ2/DQ8 genes are at high risk of gluten intolerance, so avoiding wheat products will improve your intestinal environment and boost your immune system.
Related research : The relationship between nutrigenetics and immune function – The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
● 2. Interaction between lifestyle habits and immune genes
Lifestyle habits have been shown to regulate the expression of immune-related genes, and certain behaviors can optimize the immune system.
Exercise habits according to genotype
Exercise affects immune cell activation, but the optimal exercise intensity varies depending on your genes.
People with a mutation in the IL-6 gene : High-intensity exercise promotes inflammation, so moderate aerobic exercise (walking, yoga) is best.
People with active PPARGC1A genes → Endurance exercise (running, cycling) strengthens the function of immune cells.
Meditation and immune gene regulation
Stress affects the expression of immune genes, and meditation and mindfulness have been shown to improve immunity. Research has shown that eight weeks of meditation increases the expression of the IFN-γ gene, which is involved in antiviral responses .
Related research : Meditation and immune gene expression – PNAS
● 3. Interaction between the microbiome and immune genes
It has been found that the interaction between gut bacteria (microbiome) and genes has a significant impact on the immune system.
Diet to optimize gut bacteria
Foods that increase short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) : Increase good bacteria in the gut and reduce inflammation.
Fermented foods (yogurt, kimchi, natto)
Fiber-rich vegetables (broccoli, carrots)
Foods containing prebiotics (food for good bacteria)
Onion, garlic, banana
Genotype-specific customization of gut bacteria
Recent research is advancing the design of probiotics according to genotype. For example, it has been found that the effectiveness of certain lactic acid bacteria in boosting immunity varies depending on the type of HLA gene .
Related research : The relationship between gut bacteria and immune genes – Gut Microbes
● 4. Strengthening immunity using the latest biotechnology
The evolution of genetic vaccines
Advances in mRNA vaccine technology are making it possible not only to prevent infectious diseases but also to optimize immunity. It is expected that the development of personalized vaccines based on genetic information will progress in the future.
Strengthening the immune system through gene therapy
Gene therapy techniques are being developed to strengthen the immune system, for example, by genetically modifying T cells to enhance their defense against viral infections.
Related Research : Gene Therapy and Immune System Enhancement – Cell Reports
10. Genetic and environmental interactions optimize immunity
Although genes are determined at birth, their expression is greatly influenced by environmental factors, meaning that adopting appropriate lifestyle habits can optimize the function of immune-related genes.
● 1. Immune regulation by epigenetics
Epigenetics is the process by which genes function without changing the DNA sequence. This is influenced by lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, exercise, and sleep.
How to improve immunity using epigenetics
By consuming foods that promote methylation (foods containing folic acid and vitamin B12: spinach, eggs, fish), the expression of immune genes can be properly adjusted.
By consuming polyphenols (green tea, blueberries) that promote histone modification , genes that suppress inflammation are activated.
Moderate exercise regulates the expression of immune-related genes (IL-10, TNF-α, etc.) and suppresses inflammation.
Related Research : Latest Research on Epigenetics and Immune Regulation – Trends in Immunology
● 2. The relationship between the microbiome and gene expression
The intestinal environment and immunity are closely related, and it is known that the balance of intestinal bacteria changes gene expression. In particular, beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) regulate immune gene expression and suppress inflammation.
Research into improving immunity using genetic information is evolving rapidly, with personalized medicine and gene editing technologies opening up new possibilities for immune regulation. Research into HLA genes and epigenetics has revealed individual differences in immune responses, and it has been shown that appropriate diet, exercise, and stress management affect gene expression. Furthermore, the use of AI and big data is making personalized healthcare based on individual genetic information a reality. Future genetic research is expected to make a significant contribution to optimizing immunity and maintaining health.
