The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which consuming a cranberry beverage modifies immune function, specifically related to γδ T cells and other innate immune cells. It is hypothesized that cranberry components will interact with immune cells to activate signaling pathways that enhance cell function. Enhanced immune cell function should result in reduced number, duration, and severity of cold and flu symptoms.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Enrollment
52
8 oz cranberry beverage consumed daily for 12 weeks
8 oz placebo beverage consumed daily for 12 weeks
449 Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida, United States
Change in Immune Cell Function
* Change in leukocyte phenotype * Change in the ability of the natural killer and/or γδ T cells to proliferate when cultured ex vivo * Change in peripheral blood mononuclear cell cytokine and chemokine production in response to mitogens
Time frame: Measured at baseline and 6 weeks
Cold and Flu Symptoms
Incidence and severity of cold and flu symptoms, total and individual. Other signs of severity, for example, visits to doctor or health clinic, reduction in daily activities, prescribed or over-the-counter medications taken.
Time frame: 12 weeks
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