Research on how the immune system defends the body. Covers immune-cell imaging, T-cell responses, longevity genetics, and cancer immunotherapy.
Researchers at Linkoping University discovered that lutein can suppress long-term inflammation in patients with coronary artery disease. The study found that higher levels of lutein were associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers and reduced inflammatory activity in immune cells.
Researchers found that autoimmunity plays a role in Parkinson's disease, where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. The study identified alpha-synuclein protein as a trigger for immune response, raising hope for new diagnostic tests and therapies to prevent neuronal death.
Scientists discovered fetal immune system establishment as early as 2nd trimester, allowing independent responses and immune tolerance. Dendritic cells expressing Arginase-2 regulate TNFα production, preventing unwanted inflammatory responses.
Researchers at UMD's Jewell Laboratory have developed a precision system using quantum dots to control the display of self-antigens, promoting tolerance and elimination of paralysis in pre-clinical mouse models. This breakthrough could pave the way for more selective and effective therapies for MS and other autoimmune diseases.
Macrophages, known as the Pac-Man of the immune system, promote healing by regrowing severed nerves in rats, offering a promising alternative to current treatments like autografts. The approach uses biological signals to recruit younger, undifferentiated cells destined to become pro-healing macrophages.
Researchers at Michigan State University are studying how DHA prevents the onset of lupus when triggered by inhaling toxic minerals. The study aims to understand the cellular mechanisms behind this phenomenon and explore potential nutritional interventions to prevent disease flaring and progression.
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology researchers identified JunB as a key target to selectively disable toxic T Helper 17 cells, reducing the risk of auto-immune diseases. By inhibiting JunB, these cells can still accumulate in the gut and respond to infections without turning rogue.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham discovered a breakthrough in how genetic makeup affects the immune system and cancer treatment. The study focused on the ULBP6 protein, which plays a crucial role in removing damaged cells and signals to white blood cells to kill them.
Researchers have created artificial viruses that can specifically target and destroy cancer cells by stimulating the immune system. The unique combination of alarm signals and cancer cell proteins enables the creation of a powerful army of killer cells to identify and destroy cancer cells.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new method to label and visualize the sugar backbone of bacterial cell walls, also known as the 'cell jacket'. This breakthrough allows scientists to better understand how the immune system misidentifies beneficial bacteria, leading to chronic inflammatory diseases. By using th...
Researchers at the Center for Cell-Based Therapy found that patients with more autoreactive lymphocytes before treatment have a shorter therapeutic effect. In contrast, those with fewer autoreactive lymphocytes experience a longer-lasting response to stem cell therapy.
A new combination immunotherapy has shown promise in treating advanced kidney cancer, with the potential to identify biomarkers for many cancers. The study's principal investigator, Dr. Timothy Kuzel, hopes that this treatment will help more patients benefit from immunotherapy.
In a breakthrough study, Johns Hopkins researchers identified a new way that the brain communicates with the immune system, using vesicles and small fat-like molecules to send signals. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for brain injuries by targeting the inflammatory response.
Scientists have created a vaccine that boosts specific parts of the immune system attacking HIV viral genes, prolonging resistance and allowing for more efficient defense. This approach may lead to an effective HIV vaccine by targeting weak immunostimulatory parts of viruses.
Researchers developed a novel mathematical model to explore interactions between prostate tumors and common immunotherapies, predicting their effects on patient-specific immune systems. The study highlights a potential therapeutic strategy for managing tumor growth more effectively.
A research lab at the University of Kansas is analyzing human immune responses to develop an effective vaccine or drug therapy against Epstein-Barr Virus. By studying B cells, researchers aim to understand why some people are protected from EBV-associated diseases while others suffer from health issues.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have developed a practical way to use light to guide T cells towards tumors, overcoming the challenges of immunotherapy. The innovative method could lead to safer and more effective treatment options for cancer patients.
A comprehensive catalog of diseases associated with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene variations has been generated by researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The catalog identifies individuals at risk for certain autoimmune diseases and potential new associations with multiple sclerosis and cervical cancer.
A study funded by Morris Animal Foundation has shed light on how the deadly facial tumor disease in Tasmanian devils evades the immune system. The research found that DFT cells produce a molecular shield to hide from attacks, offering potential strategies for protection.
Wild mice have highly-activated immune systems due to exposure to infections, with more activated myeloid cells compared to laboratory mice. The study's findings emphasize the importance of considering natural variability when interpreting research results.
Researchers found that wild dolphins have chronically activated immune systems due to exposure to pathogens, parasites, and pollutants. This could lead to immunologic dysregulation and increased vulnerability to disease in both humans and animals. In contrast, dolphins in managed care environments have less activated immune systems.
A study found that malaria parasites in one African village had distinct gene combinations that allowed them to evade the human immune system. This discovery highlights the importance of considering diverse strains of the parasite in malaria-control efforts.
Research reveals that strong feelings about immigrants are controlled by the immune system, particularly in people with a hypersensitive behavioral immune system. This leads to misconceptions about infection risks and a reluctance to interact with immigrants, blocking integration paths.
A comprehensive review examines the role of type I interferon in controlling herpes simplex virus type 1 infection. The study reveals that newborns are more susceptible to HSV-1 infection, which can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening diseases like herpes simplex encephalitis.
Researchers found that strokes damage immune cells, making patients more susceptible to life-threatening infections like pneumonia. Therapies targeting damaged immune cells or bypassing their dysfunction could help recover from stroke, the study suggests.
Cytomegalovirus has evolved to hide from the immune system by presenting decoy markers, tricking NK cells into thinking infected cells are healthy. The immune system responds by evolving new mechanisms to detect and kill the virus, including a molecule called NK1.1.
Case Western Reserve University researchers aim to combat chronic inflammation by targeting oral complications in HIV patients, which can lead to malnourishment and further weaken the immune system. The team will investigate regulatory T-cells and study tissues from HIV-positive patients taking common antiretroviral drugs.
A team of researchers identified a genetic mutation responsible for an adult's rare and severe immune system disorder. They developed a molecular therapy using Morpholino Antisense Oligonucleotide that corrected the mutation and allowed the patient's immune system to function properly.
A new study links common reovirus infection with the development of celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder caused by an improper immune response to gluten. Reovirus-induced immune responses can lead to the loss of oral tolerance to gluten, setting the stage for celiac disease.
Researchers have discovered biological evidence of atypical chronic fatigue syndrome, a complex and debilitating disease. The study found lower levels of certain immune molecules in individuals with atypical ME/CFS compared to those with classical symptoms.
Researchers found that a large number of CMV's genes help it evade the immune system by destroying proteins produced during infection. This discovery could lead to novel treatments or a cure for this virus.
Researchers have developed a new humanized mouse model of colorectal cancer, allowing them to test immunotherapies and potential combination treatments. The model has shown promise in preclinical studies, including the successful activation of the immune system against cancer cells.
Researchers developed an experimental treatment that tames the immune system in rodents, restoring movement to paralyzed mice. The approach may combat autoimmune diseases in humans, as demonstrated in mouse models of multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes.
Scientists at UVA have discovered an unexpected connection between the immune system and the testes, which may explain why some cancer vaccines are failing to work. This finding could lead to new treatments for autoimmune disorders and male infertility, as doctors target specific antigens released by the testes.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered that plants can recognize friendly RNAs by breaking down those without a nucleotide 'tail' using the immune system. This breakthrough paves the way for future biotechnological techniques to modify crops.
A study of 2,000 people found that women report higher stress levels than men for various life events, including death of a loved one, illness, and Brexit. This increased stress can lead to long-term physiological problems, such as ulcers or an increased risk of heart attack.
Researchers found that early intervention with two anti-HIV antibodies can induce potent immunity to HIV, allowing the immune system to effectively control the virus. In a study using macaque monkeys, treatment suppressed the virus levels for up to six months and enabled some animals to spontaneously regain control of the virus.
Researchers have discovered that the protein Myb plays a vital role in regulating the immune response, preventing overreaction and development of inflammatory diseases. The study found that Myb gives regulatory T cells the authority to control their function depending on the level of threat.
Dendritic cells, which help activate and suppress immune responses, play a key role in maintaining the balance between self and non-self in the gut. The discovery of a signaling molecule, CD40, reveals how this balance can be disrupted, leading to severe colitis, but also highlights the importance of regulatory T-cells in maintaining i...
An international study has shown that immunotherapy can cure Tasmanian devils of the deadly devil facial tumour disease (DFTD). The treatment successfully triggered the devil's immune system to recognise and destroy established DFTD tumours, with tumours shrinking and disappearing over three months.
A study by Arizona State University and Mayo Clinic identified several unique biomarkers, called autoantibodies, that can accurately diagnose Crohn's disease. The discovery has the potential to provide early warning for those at risk of major illnesses, including cancer, autism, and diabetes.
Researchers at Cardiff University discovered a genetic link between Ifitm3 and the immune system's inflammatory response. The study found that individuals with a specific gene variant may experience an overactive immune response to viral infections, making anti-inflammatory drugs a potential treatment option.
Scientists have developed a new mouse model with a healthy immune system to study the Zika virus. The model allows researchers to investigate the immune response to Zika, which could lead to advances in vaccine development and treatment strategies.
Grimes, assistant professor in UD's Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, will use her fellowship to investigate how chronic inflammatory diseases, such as asthma and Crohn's disease, arise from bacterial cell wall fragments. Her work aims to understand the immune system's response to these molecules.
Recent immune research advances the understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), highlighting the role of immune dysregulation in its development. Therapies targeting the immune system may also have benefits beyond ASD, such as preventing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
A recent study found that using a rabbit virus, myxoma virus, reduced tumor burden in preclinical studies and led to complete eradication of disease in a quarter of animals. The treatment elicited a strong immune response, suggesting its potential as a novel therapy for multiple myeloma.
A type of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) has been shown to slow or stop MS disease progression for up to five years in nearly half of patients, with significant benefits seen in younger patients and those with relapsing-remitting MS. However, the treatment carries a small risk of death and is not suitable fo...
Researchers from Monash University and Cardiff University have made a breakthrough understanding how HIV evades the immune system by mutating key molecules, which will help design better therapies and vaccines. The study provides new insights into HIV's ability to evade the immune system.
Scientists at Trinity College Dublin discovered how cancers hijack the immune system's wound-healing response to receive help. They found that a molecule called TRAIL can be re-wired in certain tumors to send an inflammatory signal, tricking the immune system into assisting cancer growth.
A researcher is studying how early immune system responses can predict the long-term success of biomedical implants. The study aims to develop methods for modulating macrophage activity to encourage positive outcomes.
Research from QUT found that consuming carbohydrates during or immediately after intense exercise helps minimise exercise-induced immune disturbances and aids the body's recovery. The study suggests that stable blood sugar levels reduce the body's stress response, moderating undesirable mobilisation of immune cells.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have identified a new pathway that recognizes three distinct bacteria, including Lyme disease agent Borrelia burgdorferi. By targeting key molecules, scientists may now try to make ticks less vulnerable to infection by these microbes.
Australian researchers investigated how certain medications impact MAIT cell function, finding some prevent detection of infections while others activate the immune system. This discovery may lead to better understanding and control of immune reactions to drugs, as well as new therapies that manipulate MAIT cell behavior.
A recent study by Penn researchers has found that signaling proteins in cells lining the heart play a key role in preventing excessive scarring after a heart attack. The proteins, YAP and TAZ, regulate immune responses to prevent inflammation and fibrosis, which can lead to heart failure.
Researchers from Geneva and Fribourg have developed a rapid screening method to select the most promising nanoparticles for medical applications. The new approach can determine biocompatibility in under two days, reducing the need for animal testing and enabling personalized treatment.
A team at Rockefeller University has discovered an antibody signature that may increase the risk of severe secondary dengue infections. The study found that patients with more serious disease have high levels of antibodies whose Fc regions lack a particular sugar, which strongly activate immune cells and lead to bleeding disorders.
Researchers discovered that the twin with shorter sleep duration had a depressed immune system compared to their sibling. The findings suggest that chronic short sleep shuts down programs involved in immune response, leading to lower antibody responses and increased susceptibility to illnesses.
A new study found that abnormal antibody production in the intestine of people with HIV-1 may lead to chronic inflammation and AIDS despite treatment. The research revealed that immune system cells in the intestines have decreased capacity to produce mature antibodies.
A recent study published in Science has identified a previously unknown means by which plants regulate their immune systems to prevent further response once an infection is dealt with. This discovery could lead to the improvement of immune systems in food crops, addressing a significant challenge for global food security.
Researchers found that antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV infection may increase susceptibility to syphilis by boosting immune system activity and leading to more sexual partners. This could explain the rise in new cases of syphilis among gay/bisexual men over the past decade.