Altered macrophage intracellular signaling induced by protein-calorie malnutrition.

Protein-calorie malnutrition (PCM) contributes to increased morbidity and mortality through impairment of host defense mechanisms and reduced macrophage function. The present study examined alterations in macrophage intracellular signaling associated with the impairment in host defense capabilities. Mice were randomized to either control (regular diet) or protein-free diets (PCM) and pair-fed for 1 week.