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Dengue virus exposure may amplify Zika infection

A study from Imperial College London found that previous exposure to the dengue virus may increase the potency of Zika infection, potentially leading to more severe symptoms. The research suggests that the Zika virus uses the body's own defences as a 'Trojan horse', allowing it to enter human cells undetected and replicate rapidly.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateJun 23, 2016

Engineered anti-toxin antibodies improve efficacy

Researchers at The Rockefeller University demonstrate that engineering Fc domains of anti-toxin antibodies enhances toxin neutralization activity. Mice expressing humanized FcR were better protected from anthrax toxin when given engineered anti-anthrax toxin antibodies.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2014

How do immune cells detect infections?

McGill researchers used computational tools to examine the solutions immune systems may use to detect small concentrations of foreign antigens in a sea of self-antigens. The study found that almost all solutions shared a common core structure or motif, revealing a surprisingly simple solution related to biochemical adaptation.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 7, 2013

Moving cells with light holds medical promise

Researchers at WashU Medicine successfully manipulate immune cells using light to move them towards a beam of light, holding potential for controlling insulin secretion or heart rate. The study uses genetic engineering techniques to introduce a light-sensitive protein into immune cells, enabling them to sense and respond to light signals.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2013

Brightly colored bird bills indicate good health

A study by Queen's University researcher Troy Murphy found female birds with more colourful bills have higher antibody levels, indicating greater strength and ability to fight off invaders. The colour of a female bird's bill is strongly correlated with immunoglobulin antibodies, a component of the immune system in birds.

SourceQueen's University·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·DateMay 24, 2012

A 24-karat gold key to unlock the immune system

Researchers at Tel Aviv University create gold nanoparticles that trigger an immune response when coated with specific chemical residues, revealing a key link between hydrophobicity and immune system activation. This breakthrough has the potential to improve drug delivery systems and lead to more effective medications and vaccinations.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 26, 2012

New 'bouncer' molecule halts rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a new protein called P21, which acts as a protective barrier against hyperactive immune cells in people with rheumatoid arthritis. By inhibiting the immune cells' destructive rampage, the bouncer molecule halts the disease process, offering a promising new avenue for future therapies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateSep 7, 2011

Mechanism for esophageal cancer uncovered

Researchers discovered that a tumor suppressor gene, p120, can actually contribute to cancer development when it's absent. In mice models, the loss of p120 led to hyperactivated immune systems and pro-tumor generating cells that promoted cancer growth.

SourcePenn State·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 11, 2011

Study shows why cholesterol damages arteries

Researchers have identified the molecular trigger for inflammation in large blood vessels, finding that cholesterol crystals activate an inflammasome complex within immune cells. This leads to a catastrophic chain reaction of inflammatory mediators and immune cell invasion, potentially destabilizing vessel walls.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature·DateApr 28, 2010

New ways to pressure HIV

Researchers found that unique reading frames in the HIV genome can induce immune responses, potentially leading to new ways to combat the virus. These findings may prove useful for developing more effective HIV vaccines.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 11, 2010

The right messenger for a healthy immune response

Researchers from the Helmholtz Center for Infection Research found that Beta-Interferon facilitates faster immune reactions against microbial and viral threats by regulating antigen presentation. Low levels of Beta-Interferon before infection can lead to a stronger immune response, known as priming.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateJul 20, 2009

Opioids provide relief from neuropathic pain

A mouse model of neuropathic pain showed that immune cells producing opioids reduced symptoms, suggesting a novel approach for pain relief. Selectively targeting opioid-containing immune cells may provide natural pain relief and offer a new treatment option.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 12, 2009

Form of Crohn's disease traced to disabled gut cells

Research finds disabled gut cells linked to Crohn's disease, with altered genetic activity leading to increased hormone production. The study suggests a potential role for autophagy and Atg16L1 in Paneth cell function, shedding light on the complex mechanisms behind the inflammatory bowel disorder.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 5, 2008