Articles tagged with Immune System
A recent study published in Cell found that T cell responses are still robust against the Omicron variant in most individuals with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination, offering protection against severe disease. Booster vaccines can enhance T cell responses, substantially increasing immunity against severe COVID-19.
Researchers discovered a signaling mechanism allowing intracellular bacteria like Salmonella to outmaneuver host defenses. By triggering macrophage death and activating the complement system, these bacteria can safely deliver themselves into another macrophage. This 'hack' enables them to persist within infected hosts.
Researchers have discovered disulfiram prevents the formation of toxic webs known as neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) that contribute to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Disulfiram's ability to block NET formation may lead to a new treatment for severe COVID-19 and other lung injuries.
A University of Nebraska-Lincoln researcher has developed a virtual immune system model that can simulate the complex interactions between different components of the human immune system. The goal is to identify more effective drug targets and accelerate the development of new treatments for immune-related diseases.
A study by UConn Health and Washington University School of Medicine found that eating more meat correlates with worse MS symptoms, altered gut bacteria, and increased immune cells. The research identified key bacteria and metabolites associated with the disease, providing new insights into its causes.
A Brazilian study found that SARS-CoV-2 can persist in patients for over a month before becoming negative on diagnostic tests. Researchers tracked 38 COVID-19 patients and found that the virus remained detectable in three cases for more than 70 days, raising concerns about quarantine periods.
Researchers have discovered that a bacteria-fighting mechanism in the immune system, NETs, can manipulate beneficial Th17 cells into harmful autoimmune responders. This finding opens doors to developing targeted therapies for multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune conditions.
Researchers developed a new 'Easy-BILAG' tool to measure lupus disease progression, enabling accurate and consistent assessments in 91.3% of cases. The single-page document uses color-coding to make assessment more user-friendly, reducing completion time from 80 minutes to under an hour.
The four-year programme will investigate the chemical signatures that trigger immunity in fungal infections, which kill an estimated 1.6 million people worldwide annually. By understanding these signatures and how fungi disguise them, researchers hope to uncover the origins of antifungal immunity.
UAB surgeons successfully transplanted a genetically modified pig kidney into a brain-dead human recipient, testing safety and feasibility in a novel human preclinical model. The experiment showed that the xenograft perfused normally and maintained vascular integrity, paving the way for potential treatment of thousands with organ failu...
Four MUSC Hollings Cancer Center researchers received American Cancer Society Institutional Research Grants worth $35,000 each. The grants support promising projects that aim to push cancer care forward. Researchers are working on various innovative projects, including a digital literacy training program for community health workers an...
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that memory T cells formed after previous infection or mRNA vaccination can still recognize the omicron variant, suggesting protection against severe disease. The study also suggests booster immunization may provide benefits beyond neutralizing antibodies.
Researchers at Lund University discovered that non-neutralising antibodies can also protect against Covid-19 by facilitating phagocytosis. The findings suggest that broader protection from antibodies may be more effective in combating mutations of the virus.
A University of South Australia study suggests that nature-based citizen science projects can alleviate stress and isolation, while improving mental, emotional, and physical health benefits. By engaging with natural environments, individuals can experience lower stress levels, improve their wellbeing, and feel connected to a community.
Researchers discovered nine genes in S. mansoni's autophagy pathway inhibited by the primate's immune system, preventing parasite multiplication and contaminating the host. The study suggests a potential novel therapy and vaccine against schistosomiasis.
Researchers discovered the ZIP-1 gene acts as a cell's first-line response to infection, controlling immune responses to viruses and other threats. The finding could have implications for identifying similar genes that control immune responses in humans.
The Sanford Children's Genomic Medicine Consortium has initiated a whole genome sequencing research project to investigate undiagnosed illnesses in children with suspected inborn errors of immunity. The study aims to sequence the genomes of up to 25 patient genomes and learn information that can benefit patients and others.
A UCLA-led team has improved a method to kill HIV-infected cells, using natural killer cells to target and eliminate them. The approach could lead to reducing or eliminating the virus from infected individuals who rely on medication.
A large population study found that living alone for several years and/or experiencing serial relationship break-ups are strongly linked to raised levels of inflammatory markers in the blood of middle-aged men. The researchers suggest that this combination may indicate a heightened risk of age-related ill health and death.
Researchers at UCSF identify unique immune microenvironments in different types of cancer, paving the way for personalized immunotherapies. The study categorizes tumors into 12 groups based on their immune profile, suggesting that some cancers share similar characteristics despite being from different types.
Researchers have discovered a pattern of immune activity in normal pregnancies that can detect abnormalities and predict complications. The study found elevated immune activation in the first three months, followed by a calmer phase, and higher activity in the last three months, especially when childbirth is imminent.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that people with immune dysfunction, such as HIV infection or rheumatoid arthritis, had a higher rate of COVID-19 breakthrough infections after vaccination. These individuals also experienced worse outcomes compared to those without immune dysfunction.
Researchers found that CBD shrinks glioblastoma tumors by reducing inflammation and restoring immune balance. The compound also suppresses key proteins involved in tumor growth and spread, making it a potential novel adjunct therapy for glioblastoma patients.
A genetic variation among some Greenlanders makes sugar healthy by converting it into a short-chain fatty acid called acetate, which boosts the immune system. Adult carriers have lower BMI, weight, and fat percentage, while children may experience negative consequences from consuming sugar.
Scientists have identified the transcription factor Blimp1 as a new critical regulator of tumor-infiltrating regulatory T cells. Disrupting Blimp1 in these cells remodels the tumor microenvironment and augments the response to immunotherapy, promoting improved tumor control and anti-tumor immunity.
Researchers have discovered a fundamental role of the TBK1 enzyme in deciding B cell fate, crucial for developing effective vaccines for diseases like COVID-19 and malaria. The study reveals that TBK1 is necessary for germinal center formation and high-quality antibody production.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that mRNA therapy improves the response of patients who weren't responding to cancer immunotherapy. The study identified a weak spot in T cells, white blood cells crucial for fighting cancer, and developed an mRNA-based strategy to enhance their response.
A new blood test developed at Hebrew University of Jerusalem detects immune and inflammatory activity in tissues by monitoring circulating DNA fragments. This method provides accurate information about immune processes in remote tissues, removing the need for invasive measures.
Researchers developed nanoparticles that activate key cancer fighters by driving up immunity at the tumor site, improving interactions with antibody therapies. The technique left six of 10 mice with lymphoma tumor-free and was effective in melanoma when combined with existing immune response amplifiers.
Research at University of Basel discovered that certain areas in tissue allow bacteria to survive despite antibiotic therapy. Immune system plays a critical role in eradicating bacteria, and boosting defenses with immune therapy can lead to more effective clearance.
Researchers found fecal transplants increase IL-25, reducing tissue inflammation and boosting immune system response to C. difficile infections. The transplants also promote beneficial microbial diversity, helping patients heal from life-threatening diarrhea.
A case study published in Nature Medicine reports a patient experiencing progressive neurological features resembling Parkinson's disease after CAR-T cell therapy, suggesting potential neurotoxicity. The study highlights the importance of monitoring for neurotoxicity in patients receiving BCMA-targeted CAR-T therapies.
Researchers discovered that blood stem cells use high-energy fatty acids from the body's fat stores to power up their response to infection. This finding could lead to new approaches in treating bacterial infections, particularly in vulnerable and older individuals.
Researchers found that a combination of natural infection and vaccination produces maximally potent antibodies against COVID-19. The study suggests that repeated exposures to the spike protein can improve the immune system's ability to produce high-quality antibodies against variants.
Researchers at Hokkaido University and Texas A¼M University identified a key mechanism used by SARS-CoV-2 to evade host immune systems, targeting the MHC class I pathway. The study found that the virus suppresses the activation of this pathway using the ORF6 protein, allowing it to persist in the body and infect others.
Researchers discovered that pregnancy triggers the activation of Natural Killer T (NKT) cells to prevent breast cancer. After pregnancy, breast epithelial cells produce a specific protein called CD1d, which attracts NKT cells to monitor and eliminate potential cancer cells.
Researchers report that combining infection and vaccination produces high-quality antibodies effective against COVID-19 variants. The study found that prior-infected individuals who received a vaccine had potent antibodies against new variants, contrary to previous findings suggesting reduced potency.
A study found that long-term cannabis smokers have increased levels of Actinomyces meyeri in their saliva, which correlates with the length of cannabis use. This bacterium was shown to decrease activity and increase beta-amyloid production in mice, suggesting a link between oral microbiome disruption and brain health.
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology and MIT have discovered a new adjuvant called SMNP, which combines saponin and TLR agonist to boost the protective power of vaccines. The study found that SMNP triggers a strong immune response in mice, promoting lymphatic drainage and activating multiple parts of the immune system.
Researchers discovered that infections improve the production and function of naïve T cells, the body's first line of defense against disease. This mechanism involves interleukin 7 and MHC molecules, which signal naïve T cells to stay alive and receive optimal metabolic signals.
A team of biologists identified the fungus Verticillium dahliae's effector molecule VdAMP3, which targets beneficial organisms in the plant's microbiome to promote infection. This discovery highlights the importance of considering the entire microbiome when understanding disease.
Researchers found that adding a specific bacterium to the gut microbiome of mice with colon cancer increased immune cell activity and reduced tumor size. The study suggests leveraging gut microbiota to enhance anti-tumor immunity in advanced colon cancer, offering a promising new approach for treatment.
Researchers in Brazil and Belgium developed a stable, immune-resistant molecule from rattlesnake venom using PEGylation. The resulting drug candidate modulates blood clotting and has potential for anti-coagulant and wound dressing applications.
A recent review article describes a class of viruses known as oncolytic viruses, which have the remarkable ability to target and destroy cancer cells. Researchers are exploring these viruses for cancer therapy, with some showing promising results in stimulating an immune response against cancer.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified genes that help ovarian cancer evade the immune system. These findings could lead to more effective immunotherapy for ovarian and other types of cancer.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified FAM72A as a crucial gene in antibody development, enabling high-quality antibodies by facilitating AID's effect. The findings also suggest that increased levels of FAM72A could spur cancer development and progression.
Antibodies that mimic the SARS-CoV-2 virus may explain lingering symptoms of long-haul COVID-19 and rare vaccine side effects like allergic reactions and blood-clotting. This theory, based on classic immunological concepts, suggests a cascade of immune responses that can lead to adverse effects.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered that cancer cells can disarmed the immune system by forming nanotubes that pull out mitochondria from immune cells. This new mechanism gives a target to go after, leading to potential new combinations of therapies for improving cancer immunotherapy outcomes.
A recent study by James Godwin, Ph.D. has identified the liver as a primary reservoir for pro-regenerative macrophages essential to limb regeneration in axolotls. The research paves the way for regenerative medicine therapies in humans, potentially treating diseases like heart and lung disease with scar-free healing.
A new study from the University of Georgia found that vaccination results in a more robust immune response than natural infection. Even with waning antibodies, vaccinated individuals still have protective immunity against severe disease and hospitalization.
Researchers have identified a second person living with HIV who appears to have rid themselves of the virus, with no intact HIV genomes found in over 1.19 billion blood cells and 500 million tissue cells sequenced. This finding may represent a sterilizing cure for people with HIV who cannot achieve this on their own.
Research conducted by Mount Sinai Hospital reveals that cannabis exposure in utero can lead to higher levels of anxiety, aggression, and hyperactivity in children. Placental gene expression also shows lower immune-activating genes, predicting these outcomes.
A recent study discovered high levels of mercury exposure in human bones from Copper Age Iberia, dating back 5000 years. Cinnabar powder used for pigments and rituals led to severe health effects, including intoxication.
Scientists have reversed new-onset type 1 diabetes in mice by injecting pyramid-like DNA molecules called tFNAs, which increased regulatory T cells and protected pancreatic β-cells. The treatment is one of the most promising candidates for type 1 diabetes immunotherapy.
Dendritic cells, crucial in detecting infectious agents, need boosting when they are scarce in healthy tissue. A new process, dubbed 'emergency' dendritic cell response, rapidly replenishes these cells from bone marrow upon infection.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that interleukin-26 plays a critical role in bacterial pneumonia by directly killing bacteria and modulating the immune system. This finding positions IL-26 as a new potential target for biological treatment of pneumonia, an increasing global health threat.
Researchers found that certain T cells stop working before entering the tumor due to changes in gene expression, making ICB therapies less effective. Combining ICB with other forms of immunotherapy targeting different aspects of T cell function may improve response rates for non-small cell lung cancer patients.
Researchers from Kazan Federal University have developed a gene-cell preparation that uses membrane vesicles to target and kill cancer cells. The technology has shown promise in treating various types of cancer, including breast, lung, and colon cancer.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital propose using an existing drug to prevent NET formation, which can lead to severe inflammation in conditions like COVID-19, sepsis, and ARDS. The study shows that ricolinostat inhibits histone deacetylases, reducing NET formation and inflammation.
Researchers have identified a link between certain gut microbiome molecules and the immune system protein P-gp, which plays a critical role in gut inflammation. The study suggests that supporting a healthy balance of microbes in the gut may help regulate P-gp expression and prevent chronic inflammation.