Research on how the immune system defends the body. Covers immune-cell imaging, T-cell responses, longevity genetics, and cancer immunotherapy.
A Stanford study reveals that the sea squirt Botryllus schlosseri uses a gene similar to the human immune system to distinguish between self and non-self. This finding may lead to new ways to control natural killer cells and treat diseases like leukemia and multiple sclerosis.
UCLA researchers have developed a new method to monitor the immune system's response to cancer using PET scans. This breakthrough could lead to faster and more effective ways to test immunotherapies and track human responses to cancer treatments.
Researchers developed a new PET technique to visualize the immune system's response to tumors and diseases. This non-invasive method enables clinicians to see key cells and their interactions, improving diagnosis and treatment precision.
Researchers explore role of worm parasites in immune system regulation, discovering potential cure for tropical diseases like filariasis and schistosomiasis. The study also holds promise for treating autoimmune conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and hay fever.
A Stanford study finds that certain tryptophan metabolites can alleviate symptoms of multiple sclerosis, a condition affecting over 2.5 million people worldwide. The research suggests that diet and immunity are linked, with tryptophan playing a pivotal role in immune system regulation.
Researchers found that a cancer vaccine candidate, CpG-ODNs, triggers an alarm response in the immune system but also activates a mechanism that can help tumors hide from the immune system. This raises questions about the potential benefits and risks of this approach in cancer treatment.
A study published in the Journal of Immunology suggests that the immune-cell substance MIF may be necessary for multiple sclerosis progression, but less important for initiating the disease. Researchers found that mice lacking MIF developed an acute phase of the disease, but then recovered without further signs of progression.
A fatty acid found in milk, CLA, has been shown to inhibit the COX-2 protein, playing a significant role in many inflammatory diseases. Researchers believe that consuming dairy products daily may elicit an effect due to the small amount of anti-inflammatory CLA present.
The new drug dnaJP1, derived from a naturally occurring protein dnaJ, has been found to be effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis by re-educating the immune system's tolerance to the amino acid sequence. In a double-blind trial, patients receiving dnaJP1 experienced lessening of symptoms and improvement in mobility.
Research suggests fetal exposure to environmental toxins may contribute to the rising incidence of asthma and allergies. A more detailed two-generation screening is needed to understand the health risks associated with early life immunotoxicity.
Scientists have found tunneling nanotubules that enable immune cells to relay molecular messages, allowing them to coordinate responses to pathogens. The discovery could reveal new insights into the local inflammatory response and potential therapeutic strategies.
Researchers at UCLA and NIH have discovered a new compound that can block viruses from entering cells, providing potential relief for conditions like HIV, herpes, and the flu. The compound also shows promise in combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a cell-based biosensor system that can scan thousands of compounds to identify those that activate dendritic cells, which play a crucial role in the immune system. The new screening technique is highly sensitive and cost- and time-efficient, allowing for rapid identification ...
A new vaccine made of a sugar-like molecule called beta-glucan protected rodents from fatal fungal infections by triggering the production of anti-beta-glucan antibodies. The vaccine, combining beta-glucan with diptheria toxin, showed promising results in rodent trials.
A study by Professor Peter Openshaw suggests a link between reduced childhood infections and increased asthma prevalence, highlighting the importance of early exposure to dirt. The 'hygiene hypothesis' proposes that a lack of environmental factors can lead to immune system imbalances, making individuals more susceptible to diseases.
Researchers are studying how insects recognize infection caused by microorganisms and the pathway of reactions that follow in their immune systems. The goal is to understand how to disrupt disease transmission by blood-feeding insects, such as mosquitoes.
Researchers are studying the lipopolysaccharide outer membrane of P. aeruginosa to understand its interaction with minerals and heavy metals, which has significant implications for bioremediation applications.
Researchers have developed a way to engineer an alternative outer covering for the measles virus, allowing it to recognize and target only cancerous cells. The 'virus in stealth' approach uses pieces from an animal virus that cannot infect humans to disguise the measles virus, enabling it to evade the immune system and reach tumors.
Researchers have discovered the chemical mechanism behind immunodominance, a process where the immune system targets specific pieces of disease-causing molecules. This understanding could lead to the development of more effective vaccines by targeting areas of pathogens that cannot be changed.
The Yale project aims to create a predictive model system for vaccine testing, addressing the need to predict vaccine safety and effectiveness. The team will study a novel solution using mice engineered with human immune systems, generated with technology developed in Switzerland.
Researchers found that bacterial infections trigger the production of antibodies against 'self' glycosphingolipids, leading to autoreactive T cell activation. This mechanism may contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Scientists are exploring the relationship between manatee tears and blood vessel formation to better understand the animals' immune system. The study found that manatees have a thick, mucusy tear film rich in antimicrobial components, which may help protect against pathogens.
Abed-rest study investigates the impact of space-like conditions on the human immune system, exploring possible causes of a compromised immune response. The study aims to provide valuable data for international efforts to plan long-duration missions and address health risks associated with chronic radiation exposure.
Researchers found that the immune system can control disease by increasing cell renewal in the intestine, allowing parasites to be expelled naturally. This discovery may lead to new ideas for treating inflammatory bowel diseases and bowel cancer.
Researchers have identified a specific region on the yellow fever virus protein that elicits an immune response, which could help improve existing vaccines and reduce severe side effects. The study found that antibodies produced by the immune system interact with this part of the protein to fight off infection.
Researchers identify genetic changes in hepatitis C virus that evade immune system, leading to chronic infections. The findings suggest a 'consensus sequence' could serve as basis for effective vaccines against both acute and chronic infections.
A nationwide collaboration of transplant specialists is reviewing kidney allocation guidelines, soliciting public input, and exploring changes to improve patient access and outcomes. The review process aims to balance justice, utility, and efficiency in the allocation system.
Annexin 1 gene expression plays a critical protective role in preventing immune damage during sepsis, with higher levels associated with organ injury and lower survival rates. Administration of human recombinant annexin 1 improved survival rates to 60%.
Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered a gene that allows pox viruses to camouflage themselves from the immune system. A new post-exposure vaccine aims to eliminate this gene, making the virus more visible to the immune system and improving disease resistance.
A new study published in the Journal of Immunology reveals that allergic eye disease can significantly increase the risk of corneal transplant rejection. Researchers found that mice with ocular allergies experienced a dramatic increase in graft rejection, with all grafts rejected in affected mice.
Researchers have found a gene that signals yeast to make bread rise and mice to eat a better diet also helps selectively silence the immune system. This finding may help explain how mothers avoid rejecting genetically foreign fetuses, providing a new target for treatments to ignore other desirable tissues like transplanted organs. The ...
Researchers found clear differences in immune cell responses between children with autism and typically developing children following exposure to bacterial agents and a plant lectin. The study suggests that a dysfunctional immune system may play a role in the development of autism, warranting further investigation.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that HIV vaccines may have failed due to the induction of self-reactive antibodies, which can destroy the body's own tissues. The team proposes a new approach to develop HIV vaccines by redirecting the immune response from innate B cells to adaptive B cells.
Acute stress temporarily mobilizes all major types of immune cells, which may enhance the immune system's ability to protect against infections and diseases. However, chronic stress may weaken the immune system, and excessive stress can worsen pre-existing inflammatory illnesses.
Researchers used structural biology to compare viral structures, discovering that some viruses share the same protein structure as the immune system. This finding suggests that viral building blocks may have served as precursors for the evolution of the immune system.
AlloMap molecular expression testing enables proactive monitoring of immune system signals, identifying rejection before it occurs. This non-invasive technology eliminates the need for frequent biopsies, improving individual patient outcomes and reducing patient discomfort.
Scientists attribute high frequency of CCR5-Ä32 mutation in Scandinavia and Russia to protection from lethal, viral haemorrhagic fevers that occurred during the Middle Ages. The disease provided selection pressure for the mutation, which explains its highest frequency in these regions today.
Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the mechanism behind African sleeping sickness by discovering a new protein called JBP2. This protein is believed to play an important role in regulating the production of base J, a unique modified DNA base that enables trypanosomes to evade the human immune system.
Shigella bacteria uses a Type III secretion system to inject proteins into human cells, causing inflammation and symptoms of dysentery. The bacteria's lipopolysaccharide (LPS) shield protects it from being destroyed by the immune system.
Tributyltin oxide (TBT) affects the mechanical activity of outer hair cells, which boost incoming sound energy to inner hair cells. The study found rapid and profound effects of TBT on outer hair cell membrane chloride ion exchange.
Researchers found an extensive system of dendritic cells throughout the intestinal tract that take up bacteria and other antigens. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of conditions like Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as the development of new vaccines.
Researchers have found that variations in the SLAM/CD2 gene cluster may contribute to autoimmune disease SLE in mice. The study suggests that altered members of this family may be responsible for abnormal lymphocyte responses.
A 12-center study found that an immune-modulating therapy, IVIG, reduces high antibody levels and improves transplantation rates in highly sensitized patients. The study showed a significant benefit of IVIG over placebo, with transplant rates more than double for the treatment group.
Researchers found that increased fat reserves bolster immune systems in animals, providing extra insulation from cold and energy to fight pathogens. This study suggests a potential benefit of temporary weight gain during winter holidays.
Researchers found evidence of ongoing inflammatory process in autistic brains, particularly in regions involving microglia and astroglia. Cytokine and chemokine levels were abnormally elevated, suggesting localized inflammation within the brain.
Researchers have found brain inflammation associated with autism, suggesting immune activation plays a role in the disorder. The study's findings support the theory that immune activation is involved in autism, but further research is needed to understand its benefits and drawbacks.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh identified abnormal levels of protein erythrocyte-C4d in patients with lupus, showing high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for the disease. This finding may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for patients with lupus.
Researchers developed a genetically altered mouse model for Sjögren's syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder affecting 0.6 percent of the population. The Id3-deficient mice exhibited reduced tear and saliva secretion, lymphocyte infiltration, and autoantibody production, mirroring human disease characteristics.
Research suggests that early life stress can alter the developing immune system, making it more vulnerable to diseases like multiple sclerosis. Infant mice subjected to maternal separation showed increased virus levels and impaired recovery from infection compared to non-separated mice.
Researchers found that IL15 induces a series of biochemical changes in NKG2D signaling pathway converting CTL cells into Lymphokine-Activated Killer Cells. MICA molecules are present in elevated amounts in celiac patients' intestinal cells, providing a target for immune cell attacks
The NIAID has formed a clinical consortium to improve the success of organ transplants by identifying genetic factors and developing new immunosuppressive drugs. The consortium aims to minimize complications and increase long-term survival rates for transplant patients.
A novel study found that regular moderate physical activity significantly improves the immune response in older men, with increased anti-KLH IgM, IgG, and delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions. This suggests that a physically active lifestyle can maintain optimal T cell-mediated responses, particularly during times of immunocompromise.
A research team has identified a new pathway for the display of foreign proteins to the immune system, distinct from the conventional TAP-dependent pathway. This alternative pathway requires cysteine proteases and contributes to immunity against viruses and transplanted tissues.
A Rutgers-Newark scientist has found that mosquitoes may carry a lethal parasite called B. algerae, which can invade human muscle tissue and cause death. The parasite is typically found in the tissues of mosquitoes and can be transmitted to humans through mosquito bites.
Researchers have identified a way to exploit the body's natural protective mechanisms used by tumors to evade the immune system. By targeting an immunosuppressive enzyme called IDO, scientists may be able to create new cancer treatments that make tumors more vulnerable to the immune response.
OHSU researchers are studying vaccination methods for seniors and children, with a focus on developing protection against infectious diseases. The study aims to understand immune system changes that occur with aging and develop methods to manipulate the system for better protection.
A study found that genetically modified mice lacking SAP gene develop normal immune functions despite pristane exposure, which typically induces lupus-like symptoms. The researchers suggest targeting SAP for treatment may be an ideal approach to developing new drug treatments for autoimmune diseases.
A meta-analysis of 293 studies found that stress affects immunity in distinct ways, with short-term stress boosting natural immunity but chronic stress weakening it. Chronic stress is particularly damaging, especially for older or sick individuals, while acute time-limited stressors enhance quick energy-efficient responses.
This innovative approach enables visualization of immune system killer cells attacking tumors, providing insights into the immune response. Dr. Witte's collaboration with clinicians and scientists is paving the way for molecular imaging in clinical trials.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have discovered that dendritic cells can stimulate the growth of suppressor T cells, which turn off the immune response and rescue islet cells from destruction. This breakthrough could lead to a prevention of Type 1 diabetes in humans.