The UKPID registry has provided valuable information on PID in the UK, especially regarding delays to diagnosis. The data show that longer diagnostic delays can lead to poorer long-term outcomes for patients.
A team of researchers has discovered a molecular mechanism that explains why allergies are less common in developing countries. They found that antibodies produced in response to a parasitic worm infection can prevent an allergic reaction when faced with novel substances like peanut protein.
A study found that farm dust exposure stimulates production of a protein called A20, which suppresses inflammatory immune responses in the lungs. This leads to lower rates of asthma and allergies in children who grow up on farms.
Researchers developed an artificial structure that can switch on immune cells to target and destroy cancer cells. The system mimics the cell membrane of antigen-presenting cells, which are responsible for activating immune responses against cancer.
Researchers used FDG PET-CT to assess anatomical structure and metabolic activity in a patient with GLILD, showing widespread metabolic activity affecting lymph nodes throughout the body. The study reveals that GLILD is a complex, highly metabolically active condition requiring optimal monitoring and treatment timing.
Researchers found that differences in immune cell parameters correlate with an individual's immune response to the flu vaccine. People who show a better antibody response after vaccination have higher levels of specific proteins on dendritic cells and more B cells, indicating improved immunity against flu.
Research suggests that high levels of IgE type antibodies can cause an overactive immune response, leading to cerebral malaria. The study found a genetic link between IgE production and the production of TNF, which can be beneficial but also deadly in excessive amounts.
Researchers have found that fatty acids from various plants and fungi can prevent MS-like symptoms in animal models. Dr Harbige's team thinks certain fatty acids work by dampening the immune system's damaging effects, but more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm.
A new procedure called in utero stem cell transplantation has shown promise in treating genetic disorders such as sickle cell anaemia and thalassaemia. The technique involves transplanting primitive blood forming cells into an affected fetus, which can cure the disease before damage occurs.
A diet rich in seafood, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid, has been shown to reduce the production of leukotriene B4, a molecule that promotes inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients. This reduction leads to less inflammatory effects and a decrease in neutrophil migration and release of damaging molecules.
Imperial College researchers are building artificial viruses from DNA, protein, and fat that can bypass the patient's immune system. These artificial viruses have shown great promise for gene therapy in corneal transplants, particularly for children at high risk of graft failure.
Research by Dr Lanzavecchia reveals that dendritic cells need inflammation to effectively stimulate an immune response. The study also shows that chemical messengers guide immune cells to the target site, enabling the development of new anti-allergy drugs and improved vaccine delivery.
Researchers are developing a new approach to treat cancer by boosting the immune system using dendritic cells, which can be grown in large quantities in culture. The therapy has shown promise in clinical trials, particularly for patients with advanced melanoma or breast cancer.
Researchers are working on a strategy to overcome hyperacute rejection by removing sugars from pig cells, targeting the GAL trigger and developing O-type blood. The goal is to produce pigs suitable for human transplantation within five years.
Researchers have developed a system to mimic the thymus in laboratory settings, enabling the study of HIV's effect on T-cell development. The model has shown that even immature T cells are susceptible to HIV infection, highlighting the need for treatment targeting young individuals.
Researchers investigated the role of Btk in B cell development and found it essential for choosing which B cells launch an attack against invading bacteria. Additionally, Btk plays a crucial role in telling B cells not to react to autoantigens, preventing autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes.
Researchers have discovered that killer lymphocytes recognising HPV can be found in tumour tissues, and that they may be able to boost the immune system's response to prevent cancer. A novel vaccine is also being developed to stimulate killer lymphocytes to target HPV-infected cells.
Researchers are exploring unmodified monoclonal antibodies, or 'naked mAbs', as a potential therapy for cancer. These antibodies can trigger programmed cell death in cancer cells, restoring control mechanisms that have gone awry in the disease.
Researchers are developing a new approach to cancer treatment called adoptive immunotherapy, which uses tumour antigens to stimulate immune cells. Tumour antigens are identified and used to sensitize T cells, which then recognize and attack cancer cells.