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Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology


Vitamin D supplements may protect against viral infections during the winter

Research published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that vitamin D supplementation can strengthen innate immunity against viral infections. The study found that vitamin D insufficiency is associated with impaired immune function and lower levels of toll-like receptor 7, which regulates immune responses to viruses.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateApr 30, 2012

Intravenous vaccination promotes brain plasticity and prevents memory loss in Alzheimer's disease

Recent studies suggest that prolonged administration of human immunoglobulin can attenuate Alzheimer's disease-type cognitive dysfunction while promoting synaptic plasticity. This experimental observation provides a rational basis for rectifying inconsistent study outcomes in Alzheimer's disease clinical trials with IVIG.

Making human textiles: Research team ups the ante with development of blood vessels woven from donor cells

A research team has developed a new technique for creating human textiles by weaving donor cells into blood vessels, promising to reduce production costs. The technology uses a combination of cultured cells and medical-textile-making techniques to create strong, biocompatible fibers that can be woven into various structures.

Epigenetic changes in twins and babies of dieting mothers increase obesity, diabetes risk

Epigenetic changes in gene structure lead to higher incidents of obesity and diabetes for mothers with poor nutrition at the time of conception. The study found that dieting around the time of conception and early pregnancy can alter genes controlling food intake and glucose levels, increasing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

New discovery may lead to effective prevention and treatment of graft-versus-host dsease

Scientists have discovered that the platelet activating factor receptor plays a crucial role in graft-versus-host disease, which can cause significant tissue damage and mortality. Blocking this receptor may lead to reduced tissue injury and improved survival rates for patients undergoing bone marrow transplants.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateApr 1, 2012

New agent improves kidney transplant survival in mice, likely to speed replacement of other organs

A new antibody, OPN-305, has been discovered that blocks inflammation leading to transplant rejection in mice, suggesting its potential to improve survival outcomes for kidney and other organ transplants. The compound works by binding to toll-like receptors on transplant tissue and turning off signals that provoke inflammation.

The microbiome and disease: Gut bacteria influence the severity of heart attacks in rats

Research published in the FASEB Journal reveals that intestinal microbiota play a crucial role in determining the outcome of heart attacks in rats. The study found that probiotics can tilt the scales in favor of improved cardiovascular health, reducing heart attack risk and improving recovery from myocardial infarction.