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New drug targets for spinal cord injury?

Researchers at Ohio State University have identified B cells as a key player in worsening spinal cord injury outcomes, but also found that removing or inhibiting these cells may help improve recovery. The study suggests potential new therapeutic targets for minimizing injury and promoting repair after traumatic spinal cord injury.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 21, 2009

Antibodies to strep throat bacteria linked to obsessive compulsive disorder in mice

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health have found a link between antibodies to strep throat bacteria and the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder in mice. The study suggests that an inappropriate immune response to the bacteria may trigger psychiatric symptoms, providing new insights into identifyi...

Immune responses to flu vaccine are diminished in lupus patients

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) exhibit diminished immune responses to the flu vaccine, including lower antibody and cell-mediated responses. The study found that vaccination did not induce disease activity, but may increase morbidity and mortality due to influenza infection in these patients.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJul 30, 2009

In vitro antibody production enables HIV infection detection in window period -- key to safer blood

Researchers have developed an in-vitro antibody production technique to detect HIV infection earlier, reducing the diagnostic window period. This method promotes the synthesis and release of antibodies against HIV-1 prior to detection in plasma samples, leading to safer blood supply and improved diagnosis.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateJul 24, 2009

A natural approach for HIV vaccine

Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified a diverse team of antibodies in slow-progressing HIV patients whose coordinated pack hunting knocks down the virus. These natural antibodies, produced by six people infected with HIV, show limited neutralizing ability when alone but become effective when combined.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2009

Antibody key to treating variant CJD, scientists find

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have determined the atomic structure of the binding between an antibody and a brain protein that could be key to treating vCJD. The study found that this antibody, ICSM18, has therapeutic potential in preventing brain cell infection and reversing early damage caused by the disease.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2009

Immune system 'atlas' will speed detection of kidney transplant

A new immune-system 'atlas' will improve doctors' ability to monitor transplanted organs and shed light on the mechanisms of gradual, cumulative kidney malfunction after transplant. The atlas allows for inexpensive, noninvasive blood tests that show whether a donated kidney is infected or accruing chronic injuries.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2009

Unexpected finding opens up new way to stop autoimmune diseases and transplant rejection

Researchers have discovered a unique antibody that blocks the S1P receptor on T cells, reducing their numbers in the bloodstream and potentially treating autoimmune disorders such as colitis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. The study's findings suggest a new horizon for reversing disabling and often fatal conditions.

Evolution in action: Our antibodies take 'evolutionary leaps' to fight microbes

Scientists have discovered a new mechanism by which the human immune system adapts to infections, involving 'cluster mutations' in antibody genes. This discovery fills a significant gap in our understanding of how we survive microbial invasions and may lead to new ways to prevent illnesses or make them less dangerous.

MIT captures single-cell response to vaccination

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to analyze single-cell responses to vaccination, providing a comprehensive picture of the immune system's ability to fight off infection. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new vaccines for diseases including HIV, fungal infections and antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 3, 2008

Blood-clotting protein modified for people with hard-to-treat hemophilia

Researchers have developed a chemically modified protein that neutralizes inhibitor antibodies in people with Hemophilia A, offering a potential new treatment option. The modified protein, called electrophilic FVIII analog (E-FVIII), permanently inactivates these antibodies, paving the way for more effective blood clotting correction.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 19, 2008