Research on how the immune system defends the body. Covers immune-cell imaging, T-cell responses, longevity genetics, and cancer immunotherapy.
Researchers at the University of Oklahoma are conducting a first-of-its-kind study to investigate the effect of cannabis use on facial wound healing in head and neck cancer patients. The study aims to determine whether cannabis smoking negatively affects wound healing, with potential implications for other types of surgery and conditions.
A new study reveals benztropine, a Parkinson's treatment, can boost the body's natural immune response to combat tuberculosis (TB) bacteria. The research found that benztropine can dramatically reduce TB bacterial counts in experiments with human and mouse immune cells.
A team of researchers identified a complex network of regulatory proteins responsible for triggering the most appropriate immune response in macrophages. This study offers new insights into macrophage biology and sheds light on how these cells coordinate their responses to various pathogens.
Researchers developed a test to detect early-stage solid tumors using a blood sample, identifying patterns in amino acid concentrations that can translate into diagnostic signals. The test achieved an 87% positive rate and showed potential for precision medicine in choosing treatments.
Researchers discovered that immune cells called T cells are abundant in mammary glands during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with some relocating from the gut. This finding may help explain the benefits of breastfeeding and inform dietary decisions to enhance breast milk production and quality.
Researchers found that certain antiviral genes become less active with age in people with lupus, leading to fewer inflammatory proteins. This reversal of 'inflammaging' may explain why symptoms improve in some older patients, allowing them to approach healthy aging.
A study analyzing 249 individuals reveals disrupted interactions between the gut microbiome, immune system, and metabolism in ME/CFS patients. Biomarkers linked to symptoms such as sleep disturbances, headaches, and fatigue provide hope for future diagnostic tools.
In a breakthrough study, researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center found that microglia cells respond differently than neutrophils to photoreceptor damage in the retina. This discovery has high implications for treating vision loss caused by photoreceptor cell damage.
Research reveals that prenatal PFAS exposure can alter infants' developing immune systems, leading to lasting imprints on their ability to fight disease. Exposure to low levels of PFAS was associated with changes in key T-cell populations, including T follicular helper cells and regulatory T cells.
Research found that chronic exposure to PM10 and PM2.5 air pollutants activates harmful allergic-like immune responses in the lungs, leading to inflammation and scarring. The study suggests targeting oxidative stress or modulating NRF2 activity could be a new strategy to treat pollution-induced allergic inflammation.
Researchers at the University of Ottawa have made a breakthrough in developing nanoparticles that not only deliver drugs but also contribute to treatment. Their proof-of-concept study shows that particles can be armed with therapeutic potential, revolutionizing the field of nanomedicine.
Researchers uncovered two myeloid cell populations driving immune dysregulation in polytrauma, highlighting a critical role of TIM cells in immune suppression. The study also identified key genes and communication patterns involved in polytrauma-induced immune responses, providing potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Researchers discovered a new monoclonal antibody, 2B010, that selectively targets regulatory T cells (Tregs) in tumors, boosting the activity of CD8+ T cells and improving anti-tumor immune responses. This unique mechanism could complement existing cancer therapies and lead to more effective treatments.
Researchers at MD Anderson identified specific co-mutations in KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that improve treatment response to ATR inhibitors. Additionally, chemotherapy was found to drive changes to the genome and clonal architecture of blood stem cells, increasing the risk of secondary malignancies.
Researchers from Korea University have discovered that the protein WEE1 can paradoxically drive immune resistance in cancer cells when located in the cytoplasm. This study suggests that targeting WEE1 with an inhibitor, such as adavosertib, may sensitize tumors to immunotherapy and reinvigorate antitumor immunity.
The Lundquist Institute has received a $11 million NIH grant to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of mucormycosis, a deadly fungal infection. The MUCOR-ADVANCE initiative aims to develop rapid diagnostic tests and immune-based therapies to save lives.
Researchers found that T-bet expression is crucial for preserving the protective memory response in lung and lymph node memory B cells. Continuous T-bet expression in these cells enables their rapid differentiation into antibody-producing plasma cells upon a second flu virus infection.
Researchers identify Egr-1 as a key regulator of Treg cell development and function, suggesting it as a promising therapeutic target for autoimmune diseases. The study's findings indicate that activating the Egr-1 gene can help alleviate autoimmune inflammation via Foxp3 expression.
Researchers discover a novel metabolic pathway, glyoxalase system, that regulates excessive immune responses by targeting a previously underexplored metabolic pathway. The GLO2-SLG-D-lactylation pathway suppresses inflammatory signaling, reducing inflammation in acute and autoimmune disease settings.
Researchers create map of T cell responses to Chikungunya virus, shedding light on chronic disease triggers. They found that people with chronic disease have T cells targeting the same viral epitopes as those who cleared the virus.
Researchers found that hyperactivation of the PARP1 protein after exhaustive training is associated with decreased performance, fatigue, and behavioral symptoms of overtraining. A study published in Molecular Metabolism suggests that excessive protein expression may be the cause of the syndrome.
A pioneering study has provided unprecedented insights into the immune response following pig-to-human kidney xenotransplantation. Researchers mapped how human immune cells interact with pig kidney tissue, revealing critical early markers of rejection and potential intervention strategies.
Researchers at Tulane University developed a handheld TB test inspired by the bombardier beetle's natural defense mechanism. The ASTRA device requires only a drop of blood and delivers same-day diagnoses without need for laboratory or trained staff, outperforming traditional tests in detection of TB with HIV co-infection.
A new UVA Health study finds that stocking two twin packs of epinephrine autoinjectors and having campers leave their own at home is the most cost-effective strategy for residential camps. This approach comes with an estimated overall cost of $4.33 per camper.
Researchers from The University of Osaka have identified a protein expressed on malaria-infected red blood cells that can hide from the immune system while also activating immune cells to destroy infected cells. This dual function makes the protein an excellent target for vaccine development and treatment.
Researchers identified six overexpressed and mutated tumor antigens strongly associated with poor prognosis in esophageal cancer. The study's findings suggest BTN2A1, MICA, and HHLA2 as promising targets for anti-ESCA mRNA vaccines.
Deepshika Ramanan, a Salk Assistant Professor, has been recognized as a Rita Allen Foundation Scholar for her innovative research on maternal immunity and lactation. She will receive annual grants of up to $110,000 to conduct groundbreaking work in neuroscience, cancer, immunology, and pain.
Sara Poletti's research reveals how childhood trauma triggers persistent neuroinflammation pathways and alters brain structure, creating lifelong vulnerability to psychiatric disorders. Her work identifies biological markers of trauma and explores prevention strategies to reduce mental illness odds.
A study of twins reveals that certain bacteria in the small intestine may trigger MS. Researchers identified two specific bacteria, Lachnoclostridium sp and Eisenbergiella tayi, which are associated with the disease. The findings suggest a new potential therapeutic target for MS treatment.
A new biological age 'clock' measures intrinsic capacity, sum of six key functions determining healthy aging. The IC Clock uses DNA methylation in blood to assess functional decline and links to healthier lifestyle choices.
Researchers at University of Virginia Health System discovered that an immune molecule called STING drives the formation of harmful plaques and protein tangles associated with Alzheimer's. Blocking STING protected lab mice from mental decline, suggesting a promising treatment target for neurodegenerative diseases.
Assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering Natasa Miskov-Zivanov is receiving a $581,503 NSF CAREER Award for her project that leverages AI to design more effective lymphocytes for cancer immunotherapies. The system aims to accelerate the process of designing new therapeutic cell designs.
Researchers identified specific antibody features that limit Mtb growth, revealing critical insights into antibody-immune cell interactions. The study lays groundwork for potential antibody-based therapies or vaccines against tuberculosis, an urgently needed treatment for the deadly infectious disease.
Dr. Natalie Artzi joins the Wyss Institute as Associate Institute Director, working closely with Don Ingber to shape strategic direction and advance research and translation efforts. She leads a world-class research program focused on developing tissue- and cell-responsive nanostructures for disease tracking and treatment.
MicroRNAs modulate inflammation across major cardiovascular risk factors, making them potential biomarkers for early detection and targets for prevention. Specific miRNAs regulate individual immune cell types in cardiovascular pathology, such as promoting M2 polarization and reducing plaque burden.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has been awarded $21.4 million by CPRIT to support cancer research efforts and faculty recruitment. The institution is grateful for the continued funding, which will help advance future potential breakthroughs in cancer treatment.
Research from Babraham Institute uncovers importance of RNA binding proteins in regulatory T cell function. The study sheds light on how the immune system maintains balance and forms foundation for understanding age-related inflammation.
Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKs) suppress an important immune signalling pathway that helps protect healthy cells from viral attacks. This allows viruses to more easily gain a foothold and spread.
A recent study found that C5aR1 inhibition can slow endometriosis progression by altering the behavior of immune cells. Researchers used PMX-53 to block the C5aR1 receptor, reducing macrophages with an M2 phenotype and promoting an M1 state.
A team of researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine has discovered that the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum can shut down a key set of genes to avoid detection by the immune system. This finding suggests that asymptomatic adults may harbor undetectable parasites, making it more challenging to eliminate malaria.
The new Epigraph vaccine developed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln virologist Eric Weaver protects against H1N1 swine flu and can also protect against influenza in humans and birds. The vaccine significantly outperformed commercial vaccines, providing protection for up to a decade.
Researchers have mapped a 7,000-year-old genetic mutation that provides protection against HIV, found in 18-25% of the Danish population. The mutation arose in an individual from the Black Sea region between 6,700 and 9,000 years ago.
Scientists have engineered a monoclonal antibody that protects mice from a lethal dose of influenza A with sticky staying power. The new molecule combines specificity and broad binding capacity, adhering to the lung lining and blocking infection in mice.
Researchers have found that psychedelic compounds can reverse a cascade involving brain-resident cells and immune cells, increasing fear behavior when chronic stress disrupts signaling. This finding represents a paradigm shift in understanding psychedelics' therapeutic potential.
Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio have discovered a crucial pathway to preserve thymic function as we age. The study found that increasing fibroblast growth factor FGF21 can help maintain thymus size and function, allowing for a broader range of T-cells to develop.
Research at the University of Bristol has linked mental health conditions like depression and schizophrenia to immune response, suggesting a fundamental change in understanding causal mechanisms. The study identified 29 potential biomarkers that could be used for novel therapeutics in mental health conditions.
Scientists have discovered a novel immune signaling pathway in bacteria that turns viral infection machinery against the virus, potentially informing future biotech tools and phage therapy. This discovery reveals an ancient defense strategy that could help fight superbugs.
Researchers found that high-grade pre-cancer lesions triggered stronger immune responses and showed higher levels of immune-related markers PD-L1 and FOXP3. These findings suggest that HPV may begin avoiding the immune system early in infection, allowing infected cells to grow and potentially leading to cancer.
A recent study found that children with chronic conditions are hospitalized for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) at twice the rate as healthy children. Researchers recommend that these children receive immunization against RSV in their first season to increase protection, regardless of maternal vaccination status.
A study analyzing 17,500 individuals found that immune resilience counters factors of aging and mortality through TCF7 gene regulation, reducing mortality risk by 69% in midlife. This promotes salutogenesis, actively fostering health and well-being.
Researchers found that immune system influences stress and fear behaviors by changing how brain cells communicate, but treatment with psychedelics can target these interactions and reduce stress-induced fear. The study suggests that psychedelics could reshape treatment for inflammatory disorders like anxiety and depression.
Researchers discovered that individuals with robust immune resilience at midlife can gain a 15.5-year survival advantage due to their ability to counter disease drivers and maintain healthy aging. The study highlights the importance of salutogenesis, or promoting health and well-being from birth to approximately age 70.
Researchers at Tulane University identified a potential new way to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) using an FDA-approved cancer drug. The treatment works by blocking the CTLA4 protein, which blocks overactive T cells, allowing the immune system to clear out damaged cells that cause lung scarring.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that older adults with cancer benefit equally from immunotherapy treatments as younger patients, with key differences in their immune responses and cells. Researchers hope to develop new therapies tailored to different age groups' needs and improve treatment success.
Researchers from Radboud University Medical Center found that an existing drug can revive immune cells paralyzed by sepsis, a leading cause of death in ICUs. The study provides new perspectives for the treatment of sepsis and may lead to potential treatments for patients with immune paralysis.
Researchers have shed light on how a new type of antibody treatment works against ovarian cancer by reactivating patients' immune cells. The study shows that MOv18 IgE reverses the suppression of immune cells and induces them to kill cancer cells, providing new insights into this therapy.
The paper proposes a new safety concept based on system-of-systems (SoS) perspective to address challenges in civil aviation transportation system (CATS) safety management. The SoS safety concept includes three core elements: safety capability, safety logic, and safety architecture.
A study of 113 healthcare workers found that COVID-19 mRNA vaccination induces long-lasting antibody and memory B-cell responses, even in those previously exposed to the virus. The research team also discovered an association between higher levels of specific antibodies and increased risk of breakthrough infections.
A recent trial of a promising gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy has fallen short, with the immune system emerging as a key barrier to its success. Researchers identify early intervention at birth and personalized immune screening as potential solutions to overcome this hurdle.
A promising new target for a Lyme disease vaccine has emerged: the Lyme bacterial protein CspZ. Genetic engineering revealed hidden regions that trigger a strong immune response. The modified protein promotes continuous production of protective antibodies, reducing the need for booster shots.