vitamin C appears to exert a multitude of beneficial effects on cellular functions of
both the innate and adaptive immune system. Although vitamin C is a potent
antioxidant protecting the body against endogenous and exogenous oxidative
challenges, it is likely that its action as a cofactor for numerous biosynthetic and
gene regulatory enzymes plays a key role in its immune-modulating effects.
Vitamin C stimulates neutrophil migration to the site of infection, enhances
phagocytosis and oxidant generation, and microbial killing. At the same time, it
protects host tissue from excessive damage by enhancing neutrophil apoptosis and
clearance by macrophages, and decreasing neutrophil necrosis and NETosis. Thus,
it is apparent that vitamin C is necessary for the immune system to mount and
sustain an adequate response against pathogens, whilst avoiding excessive damage
to the host.
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