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Preventing too much immunity

Researchers at Osaka University discovered a molecular mechanism underlying some autoimmune diseases. Satb1 regulates the development of regulatory T cells (Treg cells), which are essential for controlling hyperactive immune systems.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Immunology·DateDec 26, 2016

Once inside a tumor, our immune cells become traitors

Researchers found that regulatory T cells in tumors have distinct features and differences compared to normal tissue, making them potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets. The study aims to improve cancer immunotherapies by targeting specific molecules expressed by these immune cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateNov 15, 2016

Treating the inflammation in lymphedema

A team of researchers from ETH Zurich has discovered that a specific subset of blood cells - the regulatory T cells - can suppress lymphedema. This finding could help develop therapies to cure lymphedema by targeting inflammatory responses.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJCI Insight·DateOct 11, 2016

Scientists identify immunological profiles of people who make powerful HIV antibodies

Researchers found that individuals with high levels of broadly neutralizing antibodies have distinct immune system variations, including autoantibodies and altered T follicular helper cells. These findings support approaches to developing an HIV vaccine by modifying the immune system to mimic these conditions.

Regulatory T cells' involvement in the progress of colon cancer

Researchers at Osaka University discovered that a group of T-cells with low FOXP3 expression, known as FOXP3-low T cells, facilitate cancer immunity in colorectal cancers. These findings suggest new potentials for treating CRCs via regulation of intestinal bacteria and defining patient groups. Intestinal bacteria induce inflammation in...

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 4, 2016

Troublesome T cells have a healing side

Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine found that immune cells associated with allergies can promote healing of mouse muscle wounds when paired with biomaterial scaffolds. The discovery suggests a pivotal role for type 2 helper T cells in regulating the regenerative process, which may lead to novel strategies for tissue regeneration.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience·DateApr 14, 2016

Overcoming immune exhaustion from chronic HIV infection -- the roles of PD-L1 blockage, regulatory T cells, and viral load

A study published in PLOS Pathogens suggests that blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway can increase regulatory T cell numbers and virus production, while also boosting killer T cell proliferation. The researchers found that this approach may be beneficial for HIV-infected patients, but only when combined with antiretroviral treatment.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 3, 2015

Dietary fat impacts autoimmune flare-ups in mice

A study published in Immunity suggests that dietary fat impacts the severity and duration of autoimmune flare-ups in mice. Short-chain fatty acids were found to alleviate symptoms by promoting regulatory T cells, while long-chain fatty acids exacerbated inflammation.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateOct 20, 2015

HIV grows despite treatment, study finds

A recent study found that HIV virus can persist and continue to grow in patients receiving uninterrupted treatment for up to 14 years. This persistence occurs due to the virus's ability to hide inside blood cells responsible for immune response, copy itself, and automatically incorporate its genetic information into DNA.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalEBioMedicine·DateAug 4, 2015

How to become a T follicular helper cell

A team of researchers at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology has identified LEF-1 and TCF-1 as master regulators that control the fate of T follicular helper cells. These transcription factors pre-program CD4+ T cells to respond to TFH induction signals, making them crucial for inducing a strong and lasting antibody response.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Immunology·DateJul 30, 2015

Keeping a lid on inflammation

Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) play a critical role in shaping the immune response and maintaining self-tolerance. A recent study by LJI researchers identified a molecular pathway that maintains Treg cell stability and suppressive function, crucial for immune system balance. The discovery suggests that Treg cells may not be stable und...