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Secrets of immunologic memory

Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute have identified a new function of the CD44 receptor, which helps specific T helper cells develop immunologic memory. This discovery could lead to the development of therapies to control disease pathology in various infections and autoimmune conditions.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalImmunity·DateJan 28, 2010

Seeing family for the holidays? Scientists discover how the stress might kill you

Researchers found that the nervous system controls regulatory T cells, which help end an immune response, and that breaking this link can lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases like lupus and arthritis. The study shows that stress from everyday events like seeing family around the holidays can negatively affect the immune system.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateNov 30, 2009

Healing badly damaged lungs: Distinct set of white blood cells found to set the pace of wound repair

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a distinct set of white blood cells called regulatory T cells that play a crucial role in wound repair after serious lung injury. The study found that these cells can be sped up or slowed down, either aiding or hindering healing in severely damaged lung tissue.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 21, 2009

Teasing apart T helper cells

A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine shows that IL-9 promotes a multiple sclerosis-like disease in mice. The research suggests that IL-9 production may be linked to the presence of TGF-beta rather than a specific Th cell subset, contradicting the theory of a unique 'Th9' cell subset.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: July 6, 2009

Researchers have identified a potential tumor suppressor gene, CST5, that mediates the anticancer effects of vitamin D3 in human colon cancer cells. The study found that cystatin D protein inhibited the growth of colon cancer cells and was induced by vitamin D3, suggesting its role as a candidate tumor suppressor gene.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 6, 2009

GARP makes the difference

Scientists have identified a molecular factor called GARP that plays an essential role in regulatory T cell function. By artificially inserting GARP into transplants, researchers were able to convert immune-reactive T cells into regulatory T cells, which inhibit organ rejection.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine·DateJun 15, 2009

A new lead for autoimmune disease

Researchers discover halofuginone, a compound from traditional Chinese medicine, inhibits Th17 cells and reduces disease pathology in mouse model of autoimmunity. Halofuginone may offer a new treatment option for autoimmune disorders with potential for oral administration.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2009

Immune cell type controls onset and course of severe malaria

A subset of immune cells has been found to contribute to the development of severe malaria by suppressing the immune system and allowing parasites to grow uncontrollably. This discovery could lead to new drug targets and immunotherapies against malaria, as well as insights into other inflammatory diseases.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 23, 2009

Two distinct molecular pathways can make regulatory immune cells

Researchers have identified two distinct molecular pathways that control the formation of regulatory T cells (Treg), which are vital in limiting undesirable immune responses. The study shows that if a gene called Carma1 isn't expressed normally, Treg development is impaired in the thymus, but alternative pathways can compensate.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 2, 2009

Towards improved immunotherapy

A study published in Clinical Immunology describes a new method to induce regulatory T cells, which show great potential for treating autoimmune diseases and improving transplant outcomes. The method uses an inexpensive and simple high-yield approach to generate large amounts of these immune suppressive cells.

SourceElsevier·JournalClinical Immunology·DateDec 1, 2008

JCI online early table of contents: Oct. 9, 2008

Researchers found that SREBP-2 induces expression of type 2 taste receptors in cultured mouse intestinal cells and enhances T2R-induced secretion of cholecystokinin. This mechanism may inform the gut about food-borne toxins and initiate a response to limit their absorption.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 9, 2008

JCI online early table of contents: Oct. 1, 2008

Researchers investigate role of GSK-3 proteins in mouse embryonic heart development and find that mice lacking GSK-3-beta exhibit hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Additionally, studies show PTEN protein modification leads to T-ALL cell viability, while HDAC3 plays a crucial role in maintaining heart function.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 1, 2008

Farm moms may help children beat allergies

A study of farming mothers and their children found that those exposed to farms had higher functioning regulatory T cells, which can suppress immune responses. This increase was strongest among babies born to mothers who spent time on farms or drank farm milk, suggesting a potential preventive strategy against allergic diseases.

Langerhans cell histiocytosis

Researchers found that Langerhans cell histiocytosis is associated with the expansion of regulatory T cells, driven by cell survival rather than uncontrolled proliferation. This discovery provides new insights into the underlying mechanisms of the disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 13, 2007

JCI table of contents -- January 11, 2006

Researchers found that regulatory T cells (Treg) are impaired in the absence of WASp, leading to systemic autoimmune disease. However, a spontaneous revertant mutation in a patient's Treg cells improved their function, suggesting that a defect in Treg function contributes to the autoimmunity associated with WASp deficiency.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 11, 2007

JCI table of contents: September 1, 2006

Researchers found that estrens improved bone strength in mice with osteoporosis but also had adverse effects on reproductive organs and human breast cancer cells. This study suggests caution is needed for the development of estrens as a treatment for osteoporosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 1, 2006