Immune Response to Bacterial and Viral Antigens and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

There are two different types of T-helper cells that defend against different organisms:

T-helper 1 cells target organisms that invade cells, such as viruses. Interleukin-12 (IL-12) stimulates Th1 activation.

T-helper 2 cells (Th2) target organisms that are found outside of cells. Th2 cells are involved in humoral or antibody-mediated immunity and are triggered by interleukin-10 (IL-10), which is stimulated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, and allergens.

Each of the T-helper cells are activated by different cytokines (see following table). In a healthy condition, there is a balance between Th1 and Th2 activity. When presented with an acute infection, the Th1 system predominates (and Th2 is suppressed). In chronic infections, the Th2 system predominates, leading to antibody production.

Viruses, especially herpes viruses (such as Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and human herpes virus 6), make proteins that mimic IL-10, which activates the immune system and remains untouched by the body's natural defenses.

Addressing the two different types of T-helper cells has been the focus of work by Paul Cheney, M.D. His protocols are designed to stimulate Th1 and inhibit Th2.

According to Dr. Cheney, chronic fatigue patients have activation of T-helper 2 cells (Th2). Th2 activation suppresses T-helper 1 (Th1) activity, particularly cytotoxic T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, which are the main defense against viruses. In this way the viruses are able to "fool" the immune system.

Several mechanisms can be used to stop the process of Th2 activation:
Enhance natural killer (NK) cell function. Lower interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels, which will reduce Th2 activation. Raise interleukin-12 (IL-12) levels, which stimulate Th1 activation.

An article in the Journal of Clinical Infectious Disease measured NK cell activity in 50 healthy individuals and 20 patients with clinically defined chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS). The patients were divided into three groups based on severity of clinical status. NK cell activity decreased with the increasing severity of the clinical condition (Ojo-Amaize et al. 1994).
Several nutritional supplements, including essential fatty acids, glutathione vitamin A, vitamin E, DHEA, and melatonin, have been found to have beneficial effects on the Th1:Th2 ratio (see the Natural Therapies section).

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