A key antibody, IgG, links cells' capture and disposal of germs
A new task for IgG has been discovered, helping cells capture germs and dispose of them. The antibody aids in the formation of phagolysosomes that kill off invading microbes.
Antibodies
Research on antibodies and their uses. Covers engineered antitoxin antibodies, long-lasting immunity, monoclonal therapies, and antiviral T cells.
Bird flu vaccine additive may stretch supply
Researchers have achieved effective immunity with a low dose of bird flu vaccine using MF59 adjuvant, potentially stretching vaccine supply. The study showed that antibody levels were significantly better and that a single dose of the adjuvanted vaccine was as good as two doses without adjuvant.
Spleen may be target of successful therapy for lupus
Researchers found that a compartment of the spleen called the marginal zone is where autoreactive B cells are primarily located. Transplanting immune cells from this zone into mice with lupus-like disease led to the production of pathogenic antibodies, highlighting the spleen as a potential target for new therapies.
Biodegradable 'napkin' could help quickly detect, identify biohazards
Researchers have developed a biodegradable wipe that can detect bacteria, viruses, and other biohazards using nanofibers containing antibodies. The new process could be used by anyone to rapidly uncover pathogens in contaminated areas, providing a fast indication of whether a biohazard is present.
Biodegradable napkin -- featuring sensitive nanofibers -- may quickly detect biohazards
A team of researchers at Cornell University has developed a biodegradable absorbent wipe that can detect bacteria, viruses, and other biohazards using sensitive nanofibers. The innovative material is inexpensive, easy to use, and can provide fast indication of contaminant presence, enabling quick disinfection and retesting.
'Nanocantilevers' yield surprises critical for designing new detectors
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered that nanocantilevers, coated with antibodies, attract different densities of proteins depending on their length. This phenomenon could lead to the development of advanced sensors capable of detecting minute quantities of contaminants.
Exposure to PCBs may reduce the effectiveness of vaccines in children
A new study found that exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in children may lower the effectiveness of vaccines against tetanus and diphtheria. PCB contamination was associated with decreased antibody responses to vaccinations at both 18 months and 7 years old.
JCI table of contents: August 10, 2006
In a study, researchers found that modulation of Ras activity is not the only function of neurofibromin, suggesting alternative therapeutic approaches for Neurofibromatosis type I disease. Interferon-gamma also plays a critical role in maintaining immune response balance by inducing Foxp3 and converting T cells.
Encoded metallic nanowires reveal bioweapons
American researchers have created a new basis for portable, multiplexed biodetection systems using silver and gold striped nanowires as supports for simultaneous immunological tests. The unique patterns of stripes act like barcodes, allowing for fast and accurate identification of multiple pathogens.
Smooth sailing: 'Cruise Ship Virus' tackled by UH, Baylor College of Medicine
A University of Houston team, with a NIH grant, is creating a quick, accurate test for the 'Cruise Ship Virus' using retroreflectors and antibody proteins. The tool has the potential to diagnose diseases like Norwalk more easily and may be applied to other infectious diseases.
Novel gene therapy may lead to cure in hemophilia A patients
A novel gene therapy could provide a permanent genetic cure for hemophilia A patients, including those with expensive and ineffective treatments. The treatment involves cloaking Factor VIII in platelets to avoid antibody attacks, making it effective even in patients with inhibitory antibodies.
Buckyballs boost antibody's chemotherapy payload
Scientists at Rice University and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center have developed a method to load multiple anticancer drugs into a single antibody, increasing the effectiveness of chemotherapy. The use of buckyballs, soccer ball-shaped molecules of pure carbon, allows for the creation of targeted therapeutics with unique properties.
Wild vs. lab rodent comparison supports hygiene hypothesis
Researchers compared wild rodents to laboratory rodents and found that wild animals had higher levels of antibodies associated with allergy and autoimmune disease. This suggests that a lack of exposure to microbes in modern environments may contribute to these conditions.
Joslin discovers signs of residual islet cell function in people with long-term type 1 diabetes
Researchers found that 48% of participants reported no or very little microvascular complications, and that some patients still have residual islet function. The study suggests that many patients with long-term type 1 diabetes may have some residual insulin production, paving the way for new treatments.
UGA study reveals a new way of looking at vaccine development
Researchers have developed a 3D modeling technique that shows how antibodies bind to bacterial sugars, allowing for potential new vaccines. This technique can be used to create new vaccines that protect against multiple strains of bacteria.
NIAID study finds higher dose of flu vaccine improves immune response in the elderly
A new NIAID study found that a higher dose of flu vaccine significantly increases the immune responses of older adults, providing hope for better protection against seasonal influenza. The trial showed that participants who received a high-dose vaccine had 44-79% higher levels of antibody than those who received the standard dose.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMay 22, 2006
Coffee, black, decaf and a little llama on the side
Researchers have created a heat-stable antibody that can detect caffeine in various drinks, including coffee, tea, and cola. The test has shown accuracy comparable to sophisticated equipment, with potential applications for consumers who want to avoid caffeine due to health or personal reasons.
Home testing kit could help identify 'hidden' caffeine in beverages
A new home testing kit could help identify 'hidden' caffeine in coffee, tea, and soda by detecting the stimulant in hot beverages. The test strips use an unusual antibody derived from llamas that is resistant to high temperatures, allowing for accurate detection of caffeine content.
Epstein-Barr virus may be associated with multiple sclerosis
Researchers found a significant association between Epstein-Barr virus infection and multiple sclerosis (MS), with elevated antibody levels before symptom onset. The study suggests Epstein-Barr virus may predispose individuals to autoimmunity, paving the way for new treatments and prevention strategies.
JCI Table of Contents, April 3, 2006
Adult stem cells can make new tendon tissue and repair damaged tendons in rats. The study demonstrates potential for using this technology to treat musculoskeletal injuries and degenerative diseases.
Ocean virus identified in human blood samples
A study found that Vesivirus antibodies were present in over 40% of patients with clinical hepatitis, suggesting a potential link between the virus and human disease. The research also highlights the widespread distribution of Vesivirus in various animal species, including fish and primates.
A case of mistaken molecular identity
A recent study found that antibodies targeting the Chagas parasite also block rhodopsin, a molecule essential for converting light into electrical impulses. This discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease's vision problems. Researchers hope to develop new drugs or vaccines to combat the parasite and improv...
Reversible microlenses to speed chemical detection
Scientists at Georgia Tech have developed reusable hydrogel microlenses that can detect trace amounts of biological or chemical agents in a matter of seconds. These tiny lenses use antibody-antigen binding to change their focus when exposed to the target substance, enabling rapid detection and identification.
Scientists force viruses to evolve as better delivery vehicles for gene therapy
Researchers at UC Berkeley have successfully forced a benign virus to evolve into a more effective delivery vehicle for genes in gene therapy. By accelerating the process of viral evolution, they were able to bypass the immune system's defenses and increase the virus's ability to deliver genes to target cells.
Patients now surviving once-fatal immune disease
A study of 41 adults with X-linked agammaglobulinemia found that most can function as relatively healthy individuals despite chronic, low-grade infections. Patients reported good health and quality of life, with many working full-time or attending school.
Patient outcomes linked to biomarker levels by quantitative technology
Researchers at Yale University School of Medicine used Automated Quantitative Analysis (AQUA TM ) technology to standardize biomarker detection methods. The study found that antibody concentration can dramatically alter the relationship between biomarker levels and clinical outcome, particularly for breast cancer biomarkers.
Immune cell receptors act in combination to regulate attack
Researchers find that different antibody isotypes bind to specific receptors on immune cells, determining their effectiveness in fighting tumors and viruses. The discovery opens up new possibilities for improving antibody-mediated cancer therapy and viral treatment.
Heparin antibodies may pose risk in heart surgery patients
Researchers found a nearly twofold greater risk of death or hospitalization extending longer than 10 days for patients with heparin antibodies before surgery. The study also showed that patients with the antibodies fared worse than those without, regardless of their predicted surgical risk.
SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateDec 2, 2005
New antibody shows promise as cure for anthrax
A new high-affinity antibody successfully eliminated anthrax bacteria and its deadly toxins in animal tests, offering a promising treatment for late-stage anthrax infection. The antibody produced in bacterial cells could lead to a simpler and cheaper way to treat anthrax, providing an effective treatment that doesn't require antibiotics.
U of MN study shows nicotine vaccine has promise for helping smokers quit
A new study published in Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics found that a nicotine vaccine was safe and well-tolerated in helping smokers quit. The vaccine, which works by producing antibodies that bind to nicotine, showed impressive results with 38% of participants quitting for at least 30 days.
New vaccine platform may fight infections with causes from influenza to bioterrorism
Researchers developed a vaccine platform offering protection against pneumocystis, influenza, and other pathogens in immunocompromised individuals. The vaccine uses a specific antigen and CD40L molecule to induce an immune response.
New antibody profiling technique to test for lung cancer
A new antibody profiling technique has been developed to identify five protein markers that can detect lung cancer with high accuracy. The technique achieved 90% sensitivity and 95% specificity in identifying cancerous versus non-cancerous patient samples.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 15, 2005
UCLA researchers identify how antibody blocks prostate cancer growth in animal models
Researchers at UCLA have identified how an antibody blocks prostate cancer growth by signaling cells to stop growing and die. The discovery could lead to a new treatment targeting prostate stem cell antigen, also found in bladder and pancreatic cancers.
Antibody to a naturally-occurring sugar chain in colon inhibits inflammatory bowel disease
A team of scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys found that an antibody produced in reaction to a naturally-occurring sugar chain curbs intestinal inflammation induced in mice, reversing early symptoms and halting disease progression. The research holds promise for treating Crohn's disease and other inflammatory disorders.
Faster method to create antibodies for disease research
Researchers have developed a faster method to create antibodies for disease research, enabling the study of proteins at a higher rate. The new technique uses synthetic peptide immunisation and binds specifically to proteins with a precise sequence, producing highly specific antibodies.
Promising diagnostic tools for multiple sclerosis developed at Yale
Researchers at Yale University have developed two ways to induce MS symptoms in mice, revealing a key distinction between disease-causing and non-disease antibodies. The study brings the team closer to pinpointing accurate diagnostic tools for individual MS patients.
System drastically cuts down botulism detection time
The BEADS system detects toxin from environmental samples, then uses antibodies to purify and concentrate the pathogen or toxin for accurate detection. The system has been commercially licensed and can detect multiple pathogens simultaneously.
Transmission of Hepatitis C among family members
A study found a strong relationship between HCV infection and having an anti-HCV positive family member, with the highest incidence rate in children under 10 living in households with an anti-HCV positive parent. Parenteral exposures increased the risk of HCV, particularly in men married to an HCV positive woman.
Defective gene linked to two inherited immune deficiencies
Researchers discovered specific mutations in the TACI gene that are associated with common variable immunodeficiency and IgA deficiency. These genetic defects impair the immune system's ability to fight infections, increasing the risk of recurrent illnesses and autoimmune diseases.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 4, 2005
David M. Goldenberg receives Society of Nuclear Medicine's 2005 Paul C. Aebersold Award
David M. Goldenberg, a pioneer in radiolabeled antibodies, has received the Society of Nuclear Medicine's 2005 Paul C. Aebersold Award. He has developed antibodies for various cancer types and therapies, making significant contributions to nuclear medicine.
A vaccine approach to treating Parkinson's disease
Scientists at UCSD and Elan Pharmaceuticals have successfully vaccinated mice with a combination of human alpha-synuclein protein and adjuvant, reducing abnormal alpha-synuclein accumulation and promoting nerve cell survival.
Study finds benefits, less organ rejection using immunosuppressive combination for heart transplants
A new study found that a combination of immunosuppressive therapies significantly reduces non-cellular and humoral rejection in heart transplant recipients. The TAC/MMF group showed the lowest incidence of any treated rejection and improved side effects compared to other groups.
Allicin in wonderland
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute have developed a new technology that uses allicin to target and destroy cancer cells. By attaching the enzyme alliinase to an antibody already in clinical use, they can deliver a continuous supply of allicin to penetrate and kill cancer cells.
SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateApr 21, 2005
Two are better than one
Researchers develop customized antibodies that work together to target and destroy cancer cells. The therapy shows significant synergy, with a single combination of antibodies leading to more than three times greater effectiveness than a solo antibody in inhibiting HER2 signaling.
SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 21, 2005
New findings about protection against pneumococcal disease
Researchers have discovered that natural protection against pneumococcal disease may not rely solely on antibodies. Long-lasting immunity to pneumococcus was found in mice exposed to live bacteria or a whole-cell vaccine, which stimulates CD4+ T-cells to provide protection at the earliest stage of infection.
SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 29, 2005
Antibodies from plants protect against anthrax
Researchers developed plant-derived antibodies that protect against anthrax infection, providing immediate protection and a safe alternative to traditional vaccination methods. The plant-produced antibodies can be used before or after exposure and are stable for long periods, making them an attractive solution for stockpiling.
Chemists identify immune system mechanism for methamphetamine binges
Researchers discovered that methamphetamine triggers an immune response by forming antibodies, leading to increased tolerance and binge behavior. This finding may lead to the development of specific antibodies as a clinical treatment for addiction.
Genetic amplification (NAAT) test detects HIV more effectively than standard tests in urban study
A new study found that genetic amplification (NAAT) testing detects HIV more effectively than standard antibody testing in urban settings. The test identified four individuals with acute HIV infections who had previously tested negative, highlighting its potential to prevent transmission and improve early detection.
Mouse brain cells rapidly recover after Alzheimer's plaques are cleared
Researchers found that clearing Alzheimer's plaques leads to rapid recovery of normal brain structure in just three days. The study suggests that plaque-clearing treatments may slow or halt disease progression, and researchers plan to investigate the underlying mechanisms.
First birth using PGD to save baby from rhesus blood disease
Researchers used PGD to select an RhD- embryo, resulting in a healthy baby girl. The technique aims to alleviate the risk of haemolytic disease of the fetus or newborn associated with RhD alloimmunization.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJan 19, 2005
Weill Cornell team develops fast-acting anthrax vaccine
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College have developed a fast-acting anthrax vaccine that uses gene transfer technology to provide rapid immunity. The new vaccine works quickly, granting mice immunity within 12 to 18 hours of vaccination and may be used in combination with active vaccines for enhanced protection.
DNA movement linked to formation of antibody genes
Researchers have discovered a link between DNA movement and the formation of antibody genes in specialized blood cells. The study found that a specific type of transposable element is involved in both DNA recombination mechanisms, shedding light on their relationship and potential role in cancer development.
No blind mice, thanks to UF scientists
Researchers successfully silenced SDF-1's signal in mice with simulated retinopathy, effectively halting the growth of new blood vessels. The study could lead to a treatment option using routine injections of an antibody-blocking substance into a patient's eye.
Old T cells cripple immune function in the elderly
Researchers found that old T cells weaken the immune system in older mice, causing impaired B cell activation and antibody production. However, infusing young T cells into old mice restored B cell function, suggesting a key role for helper T cells in maintaining immune capacity with age.
Success of experimental herpes vaccine builds momentum for human clinical trials
The HMS vaccine, dl5-29, outperformed two established vaccines in animal models, demonstrating a stronger T cell response and broader antibody protection. The results suggest that dl5-29 is the most compelling new vaccine candidate for genital herpes, with potential to prevent infection and recurring disease.
Multi-center study finds therapy boosts kidney transplants in 'highly sensitized' patients
A 12-center study found that an immune-modulating therapy, IVIG, reduces high antibody levels and improves transplantation rates in highly sensitized patients. The study showed a significant benefit of IVIG over placebo, with transplant rates more than double for the treatment group.
SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 8, 2004
Crohn's disease treatment shows promise in clinical trial
A new antibody treatment has shown promise in slowing or halting Crohn's disease by blocking the production of inflammatory proteins. The treatment was safe and effective in reducing symptoms in patients with active Crohn's disease.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 10, 2004
Animal study suggests safer immunization approach to Alzheimer's
Researchers found that injecting antibodies directly into the brain of mice slowed down plaque growth by up to two months without adverse side effects. This modified passive immunization method may offer a safer treatment option for Alzheimer's, providing a window for other treatments to prevent new plaque formation.
Researchers uncover secrets of immune system's munitions factory
Researchers discovered a critical link in the molecular pathway that enables the immune system to target invaders with precision. The discovery may also provide new information on lymphoma, a type of leukemia where certain immune cells proliferate uncontrollably.
Researchers find clues about how antibodies specialize
Scientists at Boston Children's Hospital have uncovered a crucial mechanism that enables B cells to produce unique, specialized antibodies by selectively targeting specific stretches of DNA. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the immune system and potentially preventing cancers like lymphomas.