Feathered friends favor fruity flavonoids
Birds select fruit with high antioxidant concentrations, boosting their immune systems. Researchers found that blackcaps preferred foods containing flavonoids, even when they appeared darker.
Immune System
Articles tagged with Immune System
Caspase-12: MUHC researcher finds new defense mechanism against intestinal inflammation
Researchers have identified a new defense mechanism in the intestine that protects against pathogenic bacteria, which could lead to targeted treatments for diseases like Crohn's disease. The Caspase-12 protein regulates this mechanism, limiting defensin production and triggering an inflammatory reaction.
Improving the quality of laboratory data with computer modeling
Researchers have developed a new statistical model to clean up low-quality HLA data, enabling easier and more cost-effective individual immune system analysis. This advancement has significant implications for transplant medicine, disease diagnosis, and understanding viral evolution.
'Invisible' bacteria dupe the human immune system
Researchers at University of York characterize mechanism used by bacteria to evade the human immune system, using an 'invisibility cloak' to move about the body without risk of attack. The discovery of a novel enzyme and its role in capturing sialic acid offers hope for developing novel antimicrobials against these bacteria.
Turtle studies suggest health risks from environmental contaminants
Research on loggerhead turtles reveals significant levels of perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) causing liver damage and immune system suppression. Exposure to PFCs may pose a similar risk to humans, with potential for immunocompromise.
SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 19, 2008
Vaccine/antibody therapy effective, milder side effects in melanoma and ovarian cancer
Researchers found that combining a cancer vaccine with monoclonal antibody therapy produces strong immune responses to tumors without severe side effects. The treatment approach shows promise for refining strategies in melanoma and ovarian cancer treatment.
SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2008
A functional immune system can be derived from embryonic stem cells, preliminary study finds
A team of scientists has successfully derived functional immune system blood cells from embryonic stem cells using HOXB4 protein. The study showed that the transplanted cells were able to respond effectively to viruses and vaccines, demonstrating a promising new approach for patients with severe blood and immune disorders.
MSU researchers make new discoveries on what does and doesn't affect immune system
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that an appetite-controlling hormone named leptin also affects the immune system, while natural versions of certain steroids do not. Leptin supports white blood cell production and enhances immune function in obese individuals.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008
Researchers uncover more about how poxviruses evade the immune system
Scientists at SLU and UAB have made a breakthrough in understanding how poxviruses replicate and wreak havoc on the immune system. Their findings could lead to the development of new drugs for inflammatory and immunological disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.
SourceSaint Louis University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2008
A major step toward a more targeted treatment for auto-immune diseases?
VIB researchers elucidated the function of MALT1, a key player in controlling inflammatory reactions, and found that it cleaves the A20 protein. This discovery offers possibilities for developing new medicines to counteract MALT1 and restore natural inhibition of inflammation.
Deficient regulators in the immune system responsible for type 1 diabetes
A recent study suggests that impaired CD4+Treg cells may contribute to the development of type 1 diabetes. Dr. Ciriaco Piccirillo's research indicates that these cells' regulatory function is compromised in patients with type 1 diabetes, allowing misprogrammed T lymphocytes to attack insulin-producing cells.
Genes linked with lupus are revealed, giving hope for new treatments
Scientists have identified a number of genes involved in Lupus, a complex condition that frequently causes skin rash, joint pains and malaise. The study found associations with ITGAM, PXK, KIAA1542, LYN, and BLK genes, which may lead to new therapies for the disease.
Protein's new role discovered in autoimmune disease
A study led by UAB researchers found that blocking interleukin 17 (IL-17) slows disease-causing B cell actions in autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. This discovery highlights IL-17's role in shaping B cells' ability to create more antibodies.
Fight against hay fever and other allergies helped by new immune system discovery
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered a mechanism that prevents the immune system from regulating itself properly, leading to allergic reactions. The new finding highlights the importance of regulatory T-cells in maintaining immune tolerance.
Sperm's immune-protection properties could provide link to how cancers spread
A recent study suggests that sugar-based markers on human sperm cells could provide insights into how some cancers evade the immune system. These markers, found on N-glycans and recognized by all human immune systems, may be universally used by cancer cells to avoid destruction.
Mayo Clinic article offers data about shingles virus
New research from the Mayo Clinic suggests that shingles and its complications may have a greater impact on healthy adults than previously thought. The study found that shingles affects at least 1 in every 278 adults each year, with post-herpetic neuralgia being the most common complication, especially among older adults.
Researchers led by Penn vet uncover the delicate protein balance behind the immune system response
A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine has identified the pathways that lead to the production of Interleukin 10 (IL-10), a major anti-inflammatory factor. Modulating messenger molecules like IL-27 and IL-6 could increase IL-10 concentrations, tempering overactive immune responses.
Exercising our immune system
Research finds that elite rowers show a significant reduction in lactoferrin concentration after five months of sedentary lifestyle, but experience an increase in salivary proteins following moderate and high-intensity exercise. This study aims to test the effectiveness of nutritional interventions on the immune system.
Depression linked to bone-thinning in premenopausal women
A study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health found that premenopausal women with mild depression have lower bone mass than their nondepressed peers. Bone thinning was especially prevalent in hip bones, increasing the risk of fractures and other costly injuries as they age.
Stem cell transplant can grow new immune system in certain mice, Stanford researchers find
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have successfully transplanted new blood-forming stem cells into the bone marrow of mice, effectively replacing their immune systems. This technique could potentially treat autoimmune and genetic blood diseases by introducing a healthy immune system.
New research helps explain how tumors go undetected by the body
Scientists discovered that regulatory T cells can reverse macrophages' role in causing inflammation, allowing tumors to go undetected by the body's natural defenses. This knowledge may lead to new treatments for tumors and could also be applied to block chronic inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2007
Immune system can drive cancers into dormant state
Researchers have discovered that the immune system can enter a dormant state with cancer cells, controlling their growth without eliminating them. This finding may lead to alternative treatments for cancer, such as using immunotherapy to induce equilibrium and convert cancers into chronic but controllable diseases.
Poxvirus' ability to hide from the immune system may aid vaccine design
Researchers found that cowpox and monkeypox viruses can prevent the immune system from detecting infected cells, a strategy that could aid in vaccine design. The discovery may help create more effective vaccines against poxviruses and other viruses.
UBC researchers discover 'instruction manual' that tells cancers how to hide from immune system
Researchers at UBC discover a process called chromatin remodeling that allows certain cancer cells to hide from the immune system by altering the structure of chromosomes. This 'instruction manual' enables cancer cells to evade detection and grow unchecked, but the discovery may lead to new therapies within five to 10 years.
UGA researchers 1 step closer to elusive cancer vaccine
Researchers at the University of Georgia Cancer Center have synthesized a carbohydrate-based vaccine that successfully triggered a strong immune response to cancer cells in mice. The vaccine has shown promise in creating an antibody response that can kill cultured epithelial cells and stimulating an immune response in healthy mice.
Scientists discover a direct route from the brain to the immune system
Researchers have found that the vagus nerve directly communicates with the immune system, controlling inflammation. This discovery is leading to novel treatments for diseases such as sepsis and autoimmune conditions.
Scientists discover how gold eases pain of arthritis
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center discovered how gold eases pain of arthritis by blocking release of HMGB1 from the nucleus, weakening inflammatory response. Gold inhibits HMGB1 release using interferon beta and nitric oxide, a promising mechanism for new treatments.
UTMB researchers to be honored at 'Oscars of invention'
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch developed an innovative artificial immune system that mimics the human body's response to disease. This technology will enable rapid screening of vaccine and therapeutic compounds, potentially saving millions in R&D costs.
Mathematicians help unlock secrets of the immune system
A common model of immune responses will improve understanding by providing a shared language among scientists. The Immunology Imaging and Modelling Network's theoretical and computational model will help track parasites and cells in real-time, measuring interactions between immune system components.
Appendix isn't useless at all: It's a safe house for bacteria
Research suggests the appendix serves as a reservoir for beneficial bacteria, protecting them from harm and allowing them to repopulate the gut after diarrhea. This discovery challenges the long-held view of the appendix's uselessness.
Scientists identify cause of Job's syndrome
Researchers have identified the specific gene implicated in Job's syndrome, a rare immunodeficiency disorder characterized by harmful bacterial and fungal infections. The discovery could benefit treatment for other immunodeficiency diseases and provide new leads for therapies.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 19, 2007
Loneliness is a molecule
Researchers at UCLA identified a distinct pattern of gene expression in immune cells from chronically lonely individuals. This finding suggests that social isolation affects the activity of genes driving inflammation and may provide a molecular framework for understanding its link to heart disease, viral infections, and cancer.
Jefferson immunology researchers halt lethal rabies infection in brain
Immunology researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have successfully halted a lethal rabies infection in mice by opening the central nervous system's protective blood-brain barrier. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment for late-stage rabies infections in humans, and may also shed light on other neurological diseases.
Researchers discover new strategies for antibiotic resistance
New clues from immune system molecules hold hope for overcoming antibiotic resistance, with shared structural and functional characteristics enabling these molecules to inhibit or kill microbial pathogens.
Tumors use enzyme to recruit regulatory T-cells and suppress immune response
Research published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation shows that tumors use the enzyme IDO to directly activate existing regulatory T cells, which become strongly suppressive within a day. This discovery defines a tumor's survival strategy and suggests potential new leverage points for therapies.
SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 16, 2007
New strategy for treating allergic disorders
VIB researchers have discovered that oral intake of allergens via the lactic acid bacterium Lactococcus lactis can treat various autoimmune and allergic disorders. This innovative strategy, patented by VIB, is being developed into biopharmaceutical medicines by ActoGeniX.
Immune system 'escape hatch' gives cancer cells traction
Scientists have identified a specific pathway, reactive-oxygen species (ROS), that allows cancer cells to evade the immune system. By targeting this pathway, researchers hope to develop new therapies that can break through the 'escape hatch' and accelerate or slow down T-cell activity.
Challenges to development of an AIDS vaccine
HIV's uniformly fatal outcome and absence of natural immunity pose significant hurdles for vaccine design. The authors call for increased funding for research and clinical trials to address these challenges and accelerate progress in finding an effective AIDS vaccine.
Harnessing the power of the immune system to fight cancer
A new $3.5 million program aims to train the immune system to detect and destroy cancerous tumors. Researchers will develop vaccines, enhance immune responses, and create imaging technologies to monitor the treatment's effectiveness.
New vaccine prevents CMV infection and disease in mice
A new vaccine has been developed to prevent hCMV infection and disease in mice, showing promise for human use. The vaccine generates an immune response that protects against both infection and disease by disarming the virus's ability to replicate.
K-State biochemist contributes to article in Science magazine
Researchers compared genes involved in insects' immunity and their ability to spread disease, gaining insights into halting the transmission of diseases like malaria. By analyzing gene sequences with computers, scientists identified key genes to study, paving the way for new experimental research.
Revealed -- Mosquito genes that could be controlling the spread of killer viruses
A team of scientists has identified over 350 immune system genes in the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits deadly diseases like yellow fever and dengue. Understanding these genes' role in virus transmission could lead to new ways of combating these diseases by enhancing the mosquito's immune response.
Progress toward an antitumor vaccine
Researchers at the University of Mainz have developed a novel approach to create antitumor vaccines by attaching tumor-associated glycopeptide antigens to a carrier protein via an immunocompatible thioether linkage. This method shows promise for inducing an immune response against cancer cells without irritating the immune system.
UCLA researchers discover novel pathway that may promote immune system balance
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Cancer Center have discovered a novel anti-inflammatory cell signaling pathway that may serve as a vital Yin-Yang mechanism to maintain the delicate balance of immune response. This discovery may lead to new ways to fight cancer and inflammatory diseases.
Green tea compound suppresses factors causing cartilage, bone destruction in arthritis
A study found that green tea compound epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) inhibits production of inflammatory molecules involved in joint damage. EGCG also blocks the production of interleukin-6 and prostaglandin E2, reducing inflammation in joints.
Minuscule molecules pack a powerful punch
A microRNA in mouse immune cells is shown to balance the response of immune defenses, with its equivalent human gene playing a vital role. Knockout mice develop autoimmune symptoms and are less resistant to bacterial infections, highlighting the importance of this microRNA in the immune system.
Cancer vaccines -- Taking a jab at cancer by stimulating the immune system
New cancer vaccine studies are making progress in developing vaccines that can attack cancerous cells by stimulating the immune system. Researchers have found that a human papillomavirus vaccine continues to protect against HPV types 16 and 18, as well as other related viruses, with significant cross-protection.
Pancreatic cancer vaccine halts progression of disease in some patients
A new pancreatic cancer vaccine has successfully stalled disease progression in a handful of patients three years post-vaccination, offering new insights into how the vaccine could be made more effective. The study found that the vaccine triggered an active immune response and slowed down cancer growth in four patients.
Microbes start immune response by sneaking inside cells
Researchers have discovered that bacteria can enter immune system cells through a pore in the cell membrane, triggering an immune response without activating Toll-like receptors. This finding offers new perspectives for developing human vaccines and drugs that target inflammatory responses in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
Gene that governs toxin production in deadly mold found
Scientists have identified a key gene, LaeA, that governs the mold's ability to produce toxic compounds. The discovery opens new avenues for treating Aspergillus fumigatus infection, which has a 60-90% mortality rate in immunocompromised individuals.
Doubly safe activation
Interferon gamma and interleukin-1 alpha molecules work together, collaborating like two halves of a key, to initiate various immune responses. This unexpected collaboration enhances the antiviral activity of interferon gamma, providing an extra layer of security for the body.
SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2007
Researchers identify key protein in immune response to malaria and TB
A key protein called Mal alerts the immune system to respond against invading bacteria, and research has found two variants that determine how the immune system responds. The findings suggest possible new treatments for malaria and TB, as well as insights into autoimmune diseases.
Comparison of immune response to 1918 and H5N1 influeza viruses shows similarities
Researchers compared the immune responses of animals infected with 1918 and H5N1 influenza viruses, finding similar yet distinct reactions. The study aims to better understand how these viruses cause disease and develop new treatments.
Health Canada approves cold and flu medicine
Health Canada has approved COLD-fX as a preventative measure to boost the immune system, reducing frequency and severity of cold and flu symptoms. The product's safety profile is confirmed, with no known side effects or drug interactions for healthy individuals.
The multi-tasking reovirus
Researchers at Oncolytics Biotech have developed a harmless virus that not only kills tumor cells but also primes the immune system to mount a powerful defense against cancer. Studies have shown that reovirus exposure can activate dendritic cells, which then educate natural killer cells and T cells to attack the tumor.
Possible solution to Group B streptococci infection in newborn infants
Researchers have discovered a protein, GAPDH, that allows group B streptococci to colonize and cause infection in newborns. The protein modulates the immune system, increasing the risk of invasive bacterial infection.
Fighting influenza and co. with 40,000 blood samples
An international EU project led by the University of Bonn aims to shed light on why the immune system weakens with age, particularly in elderly people. The researchers will analyze up to 40,000 blood samples to develop new medicines that can largely inactivate viruses and enable the immune system to deal with residual viruses.
Built-in molecular brakes curb the sniffles
Researchers discovered a new protein, Carabin, that acts as an internal brake to limit the immune system's response, preventing excessive inflammation. This discovery may have potential applications in stopping unwanted immune reactions, such as organ rejection.
Why doesn't the immune system attack the small intestine?
A study published in Nature Immunology reveals that lymph node cells instruct immune system cells to leave healthy tissue alone, protecting the small intestine from attack. This finding may lead to new forms of treatment for autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
Study gives clues about how deadly bacterium gains foothold
A team of University of Iowa researchers has made significant progress in understanding how the deadly Francisella tularensis bacterium evades the human immune system. The study found that the bacteria can inhibit the ability of white blood cells called neutrophils to kill it, allowing it to replicate and cause harm.