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Proliferation cues 'natural killer' cells for job change

Researchers show that proliferation unlocks expression of Interleukin-10 in NK cells, a protein that moderates the immune system. This helps prevent hyperactivation of CD8 T cells, which can cause damage. The study provides another important role for lymphocyte proliferation and may help design vaccines.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateJun 12, 2014

HIV+ women respond well to HPV vaccine

A clinical trial found that HIV-positive women build antibodies against HPV and experience no unusual safety issues after vaccination. The study's results counter doubts about the vaccine's effectiveness in this population, suggesting it is safe and beneficial for those with weakened immune systems.

SourceBrown University·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateApr 16, 2014

B-cells aggravate autoimmune diseases

Scientists have discovered that B-lymphocytes lack the protein PTP1B, making them hyperactive and promoting an autoimmune attack. This study provides a new mechanism for how B-cells regulate an immune response, potentially playing a significant role in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 5, 2014

Vitamin D deficiency may compromise immune function

Researchers found a significant association between vitamin D deficiency and biomarkers for inflammation in older Irish adults. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining immune function, and low levels may compromise the body's ability to fight off infections and diseases.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 25, 2014

JCI early table of contents for Nov. 15, 2013

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that two p53 isoforms regulate aging- and tumor-associated replicative senescence in T lymphocytes. Additionally, a new gene therapy approach may not require immunosuppression, as regulatory T cells promote long-term expression.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 15, 2013

Light as medicine?

Researchers at UWM have discovered that near-infrared (NIR) and blue light can repair tissue in dramatically different ways, but both act on the same enzyme in the cell's energy supply center: the mitochondria. NIR light has been shown to improve MS symptoms in rodent models, while blue light kills bacteria that cause infection.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee·JournalPhotomedicine and Laser Surgery·DateOct 21, 2013

Preventing an immune overreaction

Researchers develop nanoparticles to block immune responses, enabling precise control of the immune system. The study's findings suggest a new approach to treating autoimmune diseases and allergies by targeting specific immune cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 3, 2013

Circadian rhythms control body's response to intestinal infections, UCI-led study finds

Researchers at UC Irvine have discovered that circadian rhythms play a crucial role in the body's immune response to intestinal infections. The study suggests that targeting treatments that supplement the power of the body clock could be an effective approach to treating bacterial pathogens like salmonella.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 31, 2013

A vaccine that works in newborns?

Researchers have identified a potent compound that activates immune responses in newborns' white blood cells substantially better than anything previously tested, potentially making vaccines effective right at birth. The compound, VTX-294, produced strong immune responses and triggered production of cytokines and co-stimulatory molecules.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 4, 2013

Tall and thin not so great for lung disease

Women with NTM infections show a weaker immune response linked to their body fat levels. The study also found that tall and thin individuals share characteristics with Marfan syndrome, suggesting a genetic link to increased susceptibility.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 23, 2013