Low perceived social support is associated with CD8+CD57+ lymphocyte expansion and increased TNF-α levels

Biomed Res Int. 2014:2014:635784. doi: 10.1155/2014/635784. Epub 2014 Apr 27.

Abstract

Social support has been supposed to have a positive impact on the function of the immune system. However, the relationship between perceived social support and immune function has not yet been fully investigated. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the link between perceived social support and lymphocyte subpopulations and cytokines. 232 healthy subjects provided a blood sample and completed the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) questionnaire. Lymphocyte immunophenotypes and cytokines were determined. Significantly increased CD8+CD57+ lymphocytes and TNF-α levels were found in group with low perceived social support. Multivariate linear regression corrected for possible confounders confirmed a significant role of perceived social support in predicting the number of CD8+CD57+ lymphocyte and TNF-α levels. This study supports the association between perceived social support and immune function. In particular, poor social support may be related to a state of chronic inflammation sustained by CD8+CD57+ lymphocyte expansion and increased TNF-α levels.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • CD57 Antigens / metabolism*
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / cytology*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Cytokines / blood
  • Female
  • Healthy Volunteers
  • Humans
  • Hydrocortisone / blood
  • Immune System
  • Immunophenotyping
  • Inflammation
  • Lymphocytes / cytology*
  • Male
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Perception
  • Social Class
  • Social Support*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / blood*

Substances

  • CD57 Antigens
  • Cytokines
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
  • Hydrocortisone