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Versatile bile acids

Two Harvard Medical School studies show that bile acids promote differentiation and activity of T cells involved in regulating inflammation. Gut microbes convert bile acids into immune-signaling molecules that activate regulatory T cells and effector helper T cells. The work suggests possible therapeutic pathways for modulating intesti...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateJan 3, 2020

Clues to improve cancer immunotherapy revealed

A new study reveals that helper T cells play a vital role in cancer immunotherapy, and activating them alongside killer T cells can lead to more effective treatments. The research suggests that combining immune checkpoint therapy with vaccines targeting both types of T cells may be the key to improving treatment outcomes for patients

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 23, 2019

How IL-6 allows the immune response to develop for a key cell, the T follicular helper

A preclinical study shows that IL-6 protects T follicular helper cells from deleterious effects of IL-2 by interrupting a feedback loop, allowing them to receive sustained T-cell receptor stimulation. This finding has important therapeutic implications for autoimmune diseases like lupus and may lead to better treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScience Immunology·DateSep 13, 2019

Another trick up the immune system's sleeve: Regrowing blood vessels

A new approach from Harvard researchers uses a biomaterial scaffold and childhood vaccines to attract and activate T cells that promote revascularization of ischemic tissues. The technique increases the concentration of T cells at the ischemic site and stimulates angiogenesis, blood flow, and muscle fiber regeneration.

How to equip the brake of immunity

Researchers at Toho University found that mice lacking JunB develop severe autoimmune disorders due to reduced Treg cell number. Injecting high doses of IL-2 can mitigate colitis by expanding Treg cells, suggesting a potential novel strategy for treating inflammatory diseases.

SourceToho University·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateJul 9, 2019

New knowledge on the development of asthma

A study published in Immunity reveals that the synthesis and breakdown of fats play a crucial role in asthma-related inflammation. Researchers used single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze gene expression in immune cells exposed to house dust mites, finding a unique profile of genes linked to fat metabolism.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalImmunity·DateJun 26, 2019

Distinguishing helpful and harmful gut immune cells offers new view on inflammatory diseases

A study has characterised two distinct populations of gut immune cells, which could help scientists develop treatments targeting inflammation while preserving healthy gut function. The 'good' cell population helps keep the gut lining healthy, while the 'bad' cells cause excessive inflammation and are associated with inflammatory diseases.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalImmunity·DateJun 19, 2019

Researchers identify possible role of Foxp1 protein in control of autoimmune diseases

The study reveals that Foxp1 is essential for the proper functioning of Treg cells, which play a crucial role in regulating immune responses. The findings suggest that targeting Foxp1 could lead to the development of therapies that selectively modulate Treg cell activity, offering new hope for treating autoimmune diseases and cancer.

Masterswitch discovered in body's immune system

A new discovery by Professor Graham Lord and his team at the University of Manchester reveals a crucial molecular pathway regulated by microRNA-142, which controls Regulatory T cells. This finding has significant implications for treating autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 11, 2019