Research on how the immune system defends the body. Covers immune-cell imaging, T-cell responses, longevity genetics, and cancer immunotherapy.
Researchers have discovered that dendrimer tentacles can avoid detection by the complement system, part of our immune system. This could lead to developing a new system for delivering drugs into the body without triggering an immune response.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital uncover key factors that enable immune cells to survive in tumor environments, including the chemokine CXCL16. This understanding may lead to more effective immunotherapies for cancer patients.
Researchers review advancements in biosensing technologies for neonatal sepsis diagnosis, highlighting the need for faster and more accurate methods. Biosensors offer a promising solution, detecting multiple parameters simultaneously with high sensitivity and accuracy.
Researchers have developed a special polymer to coat blood vessels on transplanted organs, reducing rejection rates in mice by substantially diminishing immune system response. The breakthrough has the potential to eliminate the need for drugs that prevent organ rejection and improve transplant outcomes.
A recent study published in Transplant Infectious Disease found that COVID-19 vaccination provides strong protection against the virus for solid organ transplant recipients, with an almost 80% reduction in symptomatic cases. The study examined data from over 2,150 transplant patients and showed that nearly 70% of vaccinated patients re...
A recent study by Queen Mary University of London provides new insight into the mechanisms behind uncontrolled inflammation in COVID-19 patients. The research found that treatments increasing specialised pro-resolving mediators (SPM) production, such as dexamethasone, may play a key role in limiting disease severity.
Scientists have discovered a way to restrict the activity of Tregs, which regulate the immune system and prevent it from attacking healthy cells. Inhibition of PIP4K enzymes in Tregs allows Teff cells to function more effectively, leading to better cancer treatment outcomes.
Researchers have developed nanobodies that target the cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a virus that can cause life-threatening complications in immunocompromised patients. These nanobodies bind to the US28 protein and interrupt signals that keep the virus dormant, enabling the immune system to detect and destroy the virus.
Researchers created an inflammatory clock of aging (iAge) using deep learning to predict multi-morbidity, frailty, and immune health. The tool identifies a modifiable chemokine associated with cardiac aging and provides a target for interventions.
Researchers have created a new mouse model that facilitates study of bladder cancer progression and immune-system activation. The model allows for investigation of gender differences in bladder cancer development and response to immunotherapy, with potential implications for improving treatment strategies.
Researchers developed hybrid membrane nanovaccines that educate patients' immune systems to distinguish tumor components as 'non-self', preventing recurrence and metastasis. The vaccines induce robust innate and adaptive immune responses, offering a new opportunity for individualized cancer vaccines.
A study by Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München's researchers found that the CD40L/CD40 interaction plays a crucial role in atherogenesis. The team showed that inhibition of this interaction can reduce atherosclerosis-associated clot formation and stabilize plaques, offering new therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular disease.
Researchers used a machine-learning algorithm to identify novel gene candidates associated with immune traits in mice, including 101 new genes with over 95% chance of being required for immunity. The study's software, Candidate Explorer, helps predict causation of mutations and has already verified hundreds of genes with novel functions.
Researchers at UCL and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine argue that modern society's emphasis on cleanliness does not impede childhood immunity. Instead, they suggest exposing children to beneficial microorganisms through maternal contact, family members, and natural environments is crucial for immune system development.
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology has developed guidelines for studies on work participation in people with inflammatory arthritis. The guidelines focus on identifying contextual factors and accounting for changes in work status over time.
Research suggests that smoother silicone breast implants produce less inflammation and fibrous tissue, reducing the need for replacement. Studies using mice, rabbits, and human breast tissue show a significant reduction in immune responses with surface designs featuring a roughness of approximately 4 microns.
A new study by Washington University School of Medicine identifies a protein called Interleukin-22 that may protect babies from necrotizing enterocolitis, a leading cause of death among premature infants. The findings suggest that low levels of IL-22 in the intestine lead to an exaggerated inflammatory response and tissue damage.
A study published in Cell found a connection between breast milk, beneficial gut bacteria and the development of the immune system. The researchers discovered that babies whose intestinal flora can break down Human Milk Oligosaccharides have less inflammation in the blood and gut.
A new study reveals that current vaccines may lack essential viral material to trigger a holistic immune response in humans. The researchers identified 25% of viral protein fragments that trigger the immune system, which could lead to more effective and powerful vaccines.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba developed a novel technique to generate BM chimeric mice without irradiation, promoting cost-effectiveness and animal safety. This approach enables scientists to study the immune system in both healthy and diseased states using culture-based enrichment of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.
Researchers found that space travel perturbs human physiology, leading to weaker immune responses and increased susceptibility to infections. The study suggests that T regulator cells (Tregs) play a key role in the weakening of an astronaut's immune system during space travel.
Researchers restored gut microbes missing in early life dysbiosis and prevented colitis in mice by adding a single strain of Bacteroides sp. CL1-UC. This finding highlights the importance of early childhood exposures on health throughout lifetime.
Researchers at UNIGE create 3D spheroidal tumor models incorporating tumor cells and patient-specific immune cells to test treatment efficacy. This innovative approach enables personalized treatment options, potentially reducing reliance on animal experiments.
Researchers discovered a novel molecular mechanism by which HCV interferes with the host's immune system, leading to chronic infection. The study found that HCV core protein is degraded via SPP and MHC class I proteins, impairing proper immune response and allowing infection to become chronic.
A clinical study found that injecting a protein GAD into lymph nodes can be effective in preserving insulin production in individuals with the HLA-DR3-DQ2 variant. This subgroup accounts for around half of patients with type 1 diabetes, who may benefit from a potential new treatment to slow or stop the immune system's attack.
A recent study has discovered a subtype of immune cells called dendritic cells, which become activated in the liver and promote the progression of non-alcoholic steato-hepatitis (NASH). Manipulating these cells may lead to new treatments for NASH, a condition that can lead to life-threatening cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Scientists at Medical College of Georgia are working on a synthetic version of the HLA-G molecule to protect transplanted kidneys from rejection. They hope this therapy will enable dose reduction of standard immunosuppressive drugs, reducing the risk of infections and other medical problems.
A new study by University of Tsukuba researchers reveals how two receptors, DNAM-1 and TIGIT, maintain the necessary balance between immune activation and suppression to prevent autoimmune diseases. The findings suggest that an imbalance in this mechanism may contribute to autoimmunity, providing potential targets for treatment.
A new study found that artificial food colorants like Red 40 and Yellow 6 can cause disease in mice with dysregulated immune systems, specifically colitis. Researchers are now investigating the potential impact on humans, given that similar cytokine IL-23 dysregulation is a factor in human inflammatory bowel disease.
SARS-CoV-2 employs a three-pronged strategy to outsmart the immune system, including reducing gene translation, degrading messenger RNAs, and preventing mRNA export. This 'host shutoff' tactic delays and muddles the immune response, resulting in severe symptoms of COVID-19.
A new stem cell-based vaccine has demonstrated 75% protection against pancreatic cancer in a mouse study. The vaccine targets multiple antigens found on pancreatic cancer cells, potentially leading to a more durable immune response.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered a mechanism allowing meningitis-causing bacteria to evade the immune system by sensing temperature changes. Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae produce safeguards in response to rising temperatures, boosting their defenses against immune attacks.
A new study found that counties with more green spaces have lower racial disparities in coronavirus infection rates, possibly due to equal access to health benefits. Green spaces are associated with improved cognitive performance, reduced stress and increased social cohesion.
A study by University of Copenhagen researchers reveals how sugar molecules bind to cell receptors, activating the immune system in autoimmune diseases. The discovery also sheds light on the development of Alzheimer's disease, identifying a potential natural sugar that binds to the Siglec-3 receptor.
A study published in eLife found that an overgrowth of yeast in the gut within the first few months of life may increase the risk of asthma later on. The period after birth is critical for immune system development and gut microbiome health, and disruptions to gut bacteria can lead to asthma.
A University of Minnesota Medical School study found that organ tissues develop immunity to viruses over time, leading to a broader understanding of the immune system's role in surveillance. The research reveals that up to 25% of cells in organs are immune cells, significantly contributing to the body's cellular makeup.
Research identifies SARS-CoV-2 variants emerging from immunocompromised hosts, leading to increased frequency of mutations. The study highlights the importance of monitoring genetic changes in SARS-CoV-2 to design effective vaccines and diagnostics.
A new study has found that inhibiting a protein called SELP can block the spread of Glioblastoma cancer cells in the brain. By doing so, the treatment may be able to slow down or even halt the progression of this deadly type of brain cancer.
Early life antibiotic exposure disrupts beneficial gut bacteria, leading to reduced regulatory T-cells and increased allergic responses. The study found that this disruption occurred as early as six months after birth, persisting into adulthood.
A new clinical study, SINT1A, is underway to prevent type 1 diabetes in children by administering a probiotic containing Bifidobacterium Infantis. The study aims to promote a healthy intestinal flora and reduce the risk of autoimmunity against insulin.
Researchers at Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute discover WAVE2's crucial role in regulating immune system balance. Disabling WAVE2 in mice leads to severe autoimmunity and inflammation, highlighting its importance in maintaining a balanced immune response.
Scientists have discovered that sugars called mannoses play a crucial role in the immune system's response to malaria and sickle cell disease. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutic approaches for treating these diseases.
University of Cincinnati assistant professor Ashley Ross is developing tools to detect and study chemical signals between the brain and immune system using a federal grant. Her research aims to understand how neurons regulate inflammation and develop new therapies.
Scientists have identified a promising antibody that can effectively fight HIV-1 by tracing new pathways for vaccine development. The study found that the binding strength of the antibody is directly correlated to its ability to neutralize HIV-1, and researchers discovered genetic mutations that enhance the antibody's potency against d...
A phase 2 trial led by La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) shows a promising combination therapeutic candidate for adults with recent-onset type 1 diabetes. The treatment combines anti-IL-21 antibody with liraglutide and has been found to increase endogenous insulin secretion without safety concerns.
A long-term study found that bottlenose dolphins in Louisiana's Barataria Bay, exposed to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, show abnormal immune responses and are more susceptible to pathogens. The researchers observed dysfunctional T-reg cells, which may be irreversible, raising concerns for the long-term recovery of these dolphins.
Research reveals how glycans on SARS-CoV-2's surface facilitate activation of the virus by altering spike protein structure. This finding holds potential for identifying treatments to block or prevent viral activation.
A new study published in Nature Communications found that high fructose diets can cause the immune system to become inflamed, leading to damage and increasing the risk of disease. The research also suggests a link between fructose consumption and obesity, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Scientists visualized anti-CD20 antibody effects in tumors using innovative imaging, finding macrophages play a crucial role in therapy efficacy. The study suggests increasing macrophage presence could boost therapeutic antibody effectiveness.
A new study by the University of Limerick reveals that a person's immune system directly affects their long-term risk of death, with conscientious individuals showing lower levels of interleukin-6 leading to increased longevity. The research provides insight into the biological mechanisms underlying personality traits and mortality risk.
A team of researchers from Aarhus University successfully understood why a very extended structure is crucial for an essential protein from the human immune system. The study offers new opportunities to adjust the immune system's activity both up and down, with potential applications in cancer treatment and autoimmune disease therapy.
Researchers at Cardiff University have discovered a unique way to target human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a master at hiding from the immune system. A new type of antibody marks infected cells, allowing the immune system to see and kill them.
Scientists have discovered genes involved in autoimmune Addison's disease, a life-threatening hormonal deficiency caused by immune system destruction. The discovery could lead to personalized treatment options and may determine the molecular repercussions of predisposing genetic variations.
A traditional Tanzanian diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables has been shown to have a beneficial effect on inflammation and immune system functioning. In contrast, an urban Western-style diet with more saturated fats and processed foods led to increased inflammatory proteins.
A large-scale genetic study found that variants of nine genes increase the risk of developing Addison's disease, a rare autoimmune disorder. The study identified specific gene variants associated with the disease, including the AIRE gene, which plays a crucial role in immune system function.
Inherited genetic variation plays a role in who responds best to checkpoint inhibitors, which release the immune system's brakes. The study identified 22 regions or genes with significant effects on the immune system's response to cancer.
Long-COVID symptoms persist for over 12 weeks in many patients, causing health problems like cough, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Researchers explore potential pathways and propose strategies to manage symptoms using insights from studies of chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and depression.
Researchers at KU Leuven and Seoul National University create method to stimulate immune system cells to repair damaged tissues, offering new potential treatment for inflammatory bowel disease. The technique involves targeting specific macrophage cells with liposomes containing a substance that triggers tissue regeneration.
Researchers found that common fungi in the gut teach the immune system to respond to more dangerous relatives, priming immunity against infection. The discovery offers a potential new therapy to combat deadly fungal infections.
The immune system surveils the brain from a distance and only enters when it finds a problem. This finding explains why the brain was thought to be immunoprivileged. Targeting immune cells at surveillance sites may lead to new treatments for conditions driven by brain inflammation, such as multiple sclerosis.