Defining mechanisms of lymphocyte inhibition by Glycerol Monolaurate

The immune system is the body’s defense system against foreign material. B and T cells are both a part of the adaptive immune system. These cell types are very specific and are tailored to respond to a single type of foreign material. B cells are responsible for producing antibodies that will mark and neutralize foreign material for degradation. There are two primary types of T cells: helper T cells and cytotoxic cells. Cytotoxic T cells will eliminate infected cells to control an infection. Helper T cells will release proteins called cytokines that recruit and support the other cell types that eliminate an infection. Compounds that enhance or suppress this immune response are clinically relevant in order to increase an underperforming immune response or stop an overactive immune response.

Glycerol monolaurate (GML) is a naturally occurring anti-microbial compound. It is found in high concentrations in human breast milk, coconut oil, and other palm tree oils. It is on the FDA’s generally recognized as safe list and is used industrially as a natural preservative. In addition to it antimicrobial properties, GML is also immunosuppressive. There have been several clinical trials and studies investigating potential applications of this unique compound. To better understand potential applications of glycerol monolaurate it is important we understand the mechanism of how it effects cells found at sites of infection. This work examines structural components of GML and how this compound inhibits T cell and B cell receptor induced activation.