An international study led by Italian scientist Arianna Capucetti, from the Università della Svizzera italiana, revealed that Tattoos can weaken the immune system.
The research, published by the magazine PNASThe study analyzed the effects of the ink on mice and also on human cells. The results indicate that the pigments injected into the skin migrate rapidly to the lymphatic system, where they accumulate in large quantities a few hours after tattooing.
According to the authors, this accumulation in the lymph nodes triggers an inflammatory response in two phases: an acute phase, lasting about two days, and a chronic phase, which can persist for months or years. The chronic phase is considered the most concerning because it involves the absorption of the ink by immune system cells, such as macrophages, which end up dying or having their function impaired.
Research has identified that pigments retained in these cells cause prolonged inflammation and compromise the immune system's ability to react appropriately. Furthermore, tests have shown that the presence of ink in lymph nodes alters the effectiveness of vaccines. In tattooed animals, the response to the Covid-19 vaccine was lower. However, in the case of the ultraviolet radiation-inactivated flu vaccine, there was an increase in antibody production.
The researchers explain that the differences occur due to the distinct mechanisms of action between the types of vaccine. The presence of ink seems to hinder the production of the spike protein in the case of the messenger RNA vaccine, while, for inactivated vaccines, the inflammatory environment may even act as a booster in the immune response.
According to the study, approximately 2,5 milligrams of ink per square centimeter are introduced into the body during the tattooing process. Some of this material is drained into the lymph nodes and can remain in the body for a long time. The authors also observed that the effects vary depending on the color of the ink. Red pigment, for example, showed the greatest toxicity and ability to cause inflammation.
The research also indicates the impact of tattoos on the immune system. It can interfere with medical treatments, such as immunotherapy for cancer.. Scientists warn that more studies are needed to assess the effect of tattoos on different types of vaccines and diseases, especially in people with large tattooed areas.
The study, published this Wednesday, the 3rd, involved scientists from various countries. The findings reinforce the need for stricter regulation of the chemical components used in paints, which are currently less controlled than pharmaceutical products.
Check out the full study published in the journal PNAS: Tattoo ink induces inflammation in the draining lymph node and alters the immune response to vaccination
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