Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic immune cells with an innate capacity for eliminating cancer cells and virus- infected cells. NK cells are critical effector cells in the immunosurveillance of cancer and viral infections. Patients with low NK cell activity or NK cell deficiencies are predisposed to increased risks of cancer and severe viral infections. However, functional alterations of human NK cells are associated with lifestyles and aging. Personal lifestyles, such as cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, obesity, and aging are correlated with NK cell dysfunction, whereas adequate sleep, moderate exercise, forest bathing, and listening to music are associated with functional healthy NK cells. Therefore, adherence to a healthy lifestyle is essential and will be favorable for immunosurveillance of cancer and viral infections with healthy NK cells.
Highlights
The average global life expectancy has increased substantially over the past few decades [1]
We review the immunosurveillance of cancer and viral infections with regard to alterations of natural killer (NK) cells originating from lifestyles and aging
The alterations of Natural killer (NK) cells induced by chronic alcohol consumption, in the stage of alcoholic cirrhosis, causes decreased immunosurveillance, which may contribute to the higher incidence of cancer
Summary
The average global life expectancy has increased substantially over the past few decades [1]. Lifestyles affect the incidence of chronic diseases including cancer and life expectancy [4]. Healthy lifestyles are related to a long life expectancy free from major diseases such as cancer [5]. Unhealthy lifestyles contribute to the progression of severe diseases of such as COVID-19 [6] and increased risk of cancer progression [7]. The promotion of a healthy lifestyle is critical to the defense against cancer and viral infections, and in improving life expectancy free of cancer and other associated chronic diseases [5]. We review the immunosurveillance of cancer and viral infections with regard to alterations of natural killer (NK) cells originating from lifestyles and aging
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