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'Exercise hormone' irisin may be a myth

Recent research suggests that irisin, believed to travel from muscle to fat tissue after exercise, may not exist in humans. New tests used in previous studies found antibodies were poorly vetted and nonspecific, leading to false positive results.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 9, 2015

Antibodies to brain proteins may trigger psychosis

A new study has identified antibodies targeting dopamine D2 receptors and NMDA glutamate receptors in children experiencing their first episode of psychosis. This finding suggests that autoimmunity may play a role in the development of psychosis, offering hope for new treatment approaches.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 5, 2015

New antibodies for cancer treatment

Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered ten new antibodies that can inhibit blood vessel formation near tumors, cutting off oxygen and nutrient supply. The antibodies appear to work effectively in laboratory tests and show promising therapeutic potential.

Gold nanoparticles show promise for early detection of heart attacks

Researchers at NYU Polytechnic School of Engineering have developed a new colloidal gold test strip that demonstrates high detection sensitivity for cardiac troponin I (cTn-I) detection. The new strip uses microplasma-generated gold nanoparticles, attracting more antibodies and resulting in significantly higher detection sensitivity.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalPlasma Processes and Polymers·DateJan 15, 2015

One punch to knock out flu

Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new class of antibodies that can neutralize a wide range of influenza A viruses, paving the way for a universal flu vaccine. The vaccine would only need to be given once and could protect against all strains of flu, even when the virus mutates.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 14, 2015

UC researchers find alternate drug therapy lowers antibodies

Researchers at University of Cincinnati discover a new drug therapy that effectively lowers antibodies in kidney patients, paving the way for more successful kidney transplants. The study suggests this approach could benefit up to 10-20% of heart and pancreas transplant candidates who are currently ineligible due to high antibody levels.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateDec 23, 2014

Gut microbes determine how well the flu vaccine works

A new study reveals that gut microbes play a vital role in stimulating protective immune responses to the seasonal flu vaccine. Researchers found that mice with altered gut microbiota showed reduced antibody responses to vaccination, highlighting the importance of gut microbes in vaccine efficacy.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateSep 11, 2014

Understanding and improving the body's fight against pathogens

Scientists from A*STAR's Bioprocessing Technology Institute uncover crucial role of DOK3 and SHP1 in plasma cell development and production. This discovery advances understanding of plasma cells and antibody response, potentially leading to improved treatment for patients with autoimmune diseases like lupus and multiple myeloma.

SourceBiomedical Sciences Institutes (BMSI)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2014

Sugary bugs subvert antibodies

Researchers discovered that a specific type of IgG2 antibody protects Pseudomonas aeruginosa by binding to extra-long sugars on the bacterial surface. This protection can lead to reduced antibacterial capacity and worsened disease outcomes in immunized individuals.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 11, 2014

New malaria vaccine candidates identified

Researchers discovered new vaccine targets that could help combat malaria by identifying previously untested antigens and gaining insights into antigen combination. A group of infected children was followed over six months to identify combinations of antibodies providing up to 100% protection against clinical episodes.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 30, 2014