Impact of Alcohol on Inflammation, Immunity, Infections, and Extracellular Vesicles in Pathogenesis.

Abstract

Alcohol consumption is a widespread social activity with a complex and multifaceted impact on human health. Although moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with certain potential health benefits, excessive or chronic alcohol use can disrupt the body's immune balance, promote inflammation, and increase susceptibility to infections. The deleterious effects associated with alcohol toxicity include the loss of cell integrity. When cells lose their integrity, they also lose the capacity to communicate with other systems. One of the systems disturbed by alcohol toxicity is extracellular vesicle (EV)-mediated communication. EVs are critical mediators of cell-to-cell communication. They play a significant role in alcohol-induced pathogenesis, facilitating communication and molecular exchange between cells, thereby potentially contributing to alcohol-related health issues. Investigating their involvement in this context is fundamental to resolving the intricate mechanisms behind the health consequences of alcohol use and may pave the way for innovative approaches for mitigating the adverse effects of alcohol on immune health. Understanding the role of EVs in the context of alcohol-induced pathogenesis is essential for comprehending the mechanisms behind alcohol-related health issues.