Can Protein Restriction Set Up T Lymphocytes Favorably For Their Activation Against Pathogens Through Myc?

One area that presents a significant threat to global health is infectious diseases. With increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria [1], opportunistic infections are a growing concern for human societies. In 2009, there were 89,000 deaths caused by pneumonia, septicemia, and influenza virus in the United States alone [2]. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria increase the risk of secondary infection that is associated with many standard medical procedures such as organ transplantation, chemotherapy, dialysis, and elective surgery [1]. The deceleration of new drug discovery suggests that acute preventative strategies strengthening host immunity prior to such procedures are of strong interest. In this mini review, I will suggest a protein restriction-Myc signaling as a potential pharmacological target to boost the survival outcome following pathogenic bacterial infection.