Immunology
Articles tagged with Immunology
The liver’s immune cells might be the key to curing hepatitis B
Rhein attenuates severe acute pancreatitis-associated intestinal injury through pparγ regulating macrophage activation
Intestinal stem cells can fight back against salmonella scientists discover
Researchers identified a defense mechanism in intestinal stem cells that actively responds to Salmonella infection, differentiating into antimicrobial Paneth cells to limit bacterial persistence. The study suggests that stem cell differentiation is part of an intrinsic protective program preserving intestinal function during infection.
Scientists discover ‘hidden switch’ in immune cells that helps the body kill deadly fungus
Researchers found a protein called RAB5c that helps white blood cells kill Aspergillus fumigatus, a common airborne fungus. Without this protein, immune cells are disarmed despite attacking at full force. The discovery could lead to new treatments for patients with weakened immune systems.
CDI convenes leaders in translational immunology
The Applied Immunological Research Symposium (AIRS) brought together renowned scientists to share groundbreaking findings on T cell exhaustion and its connection to vaccine interception. Keynote speaker Rafi Ahmed presented data showing how blocking PD-1 reawakens a core population of 'stem-like' T cells, unleashing them to fight disease.
From immunosuppression to active tolerance: the evolving paradigm of regulatory T cell therapy in organ transplantation
This anti-CRISPR stops the protein assembly line in bacteria
LJI scientists take crucial step in developing world's first measles treatment
Turning up the volume on macrophage-driven immune responses
Controlled peanut intake may reduce allergies in toddlers
Researchers treated 75 children with peanut allergies using slow up-dosing and low maintenance dosing. After three years, 82% of the treatment group could eat at least 3.5 peanuts without an allergic reaction.
Nobel Laureate Jules Hoffmann leads major review on four decades of toll-like receptor research
The article systematically summarizes forty years of discoveries in the TLR field, revealing multilayered regulatory mechanisms governing TLR signaling. Aberrant TLR signaling is closely linked to multiple human diseases, including infectious diseases, autoimmune conditions, and cancer.
Trial now enrolling seeks to answer key question: Does adding chemotherapy to hormone therapy improve survival for metastatic prostate cancer?
The ASPIRE trial aims to enroll 1,200 participants with advanced prostate cancer and assess the impact of chemotherapy on overall survival and disease progression. Genetic profiling is included to identify patients who benefit most from intensified treatment.
St. Jude researcher Hongbo Chi, Ph.D., elected to the National Academy of Sciences
Hongbo Chi's election recognizes his pioneering work in immunometabolism and its impact on next-generation cancer immunotherapies. He continues to contribute to St. Jude's mission-driven institution, advancing fundamental science and meaningful impact.
Mothers without specific fatty acid in the blood more often have children with asthma
A new study finds that pregnant women with low levels of a specific fatty acid molecule are more likely to have children with childhood asthma. The researchers also found that children of these mothers are more prone to respiratory infections and altered lung microbiomes.
Researchers uncover strategy to help exhausted immune cells fight tumors
A new study reveals that impaired protein recycling is the key factor in T cell exhaustion, allowing researchers to develop a 'tag and sort' fix to restore normal proteostasis. This approach boosts the potency of cell therapy against cancer.
Decades-old theory debunked to explain rare immune condition
Researchers at Garvan Institute of Medical Research discovered key immune cells malfunction in mevalonate kinase deficiency (MKD), a rare but devastating autoinflammatory disorder. Current treatments targeting inflammatory signals produced by macrophages fail in half of patients, but JAK inhibitors may provide relief.
Your nose is a battlefield
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered that FluMist can trigger an immune response directly in nasal tissue, training immune cells to recognize and fight influenza virus infection. This response stays in the upper airways and cannot be detected via blood samples.
How eating primes immune cells for future responses
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that eating creates a temporary metabolic state that influences T cell function, leading to improved responses to infection. The findings have particular relevance for cancer immunotherapy and may inform when immune cells are collected or activated.
How the immune system battles lifelong viral infections acquired at birth
A study by researchers at the University of Basel reveals that the immune system fights lifelong viral infections acquired at birth, with partial success. The body gradually produces antibodies to reduce virus amounts, supported by T helper cells, but the response remains limited.
New lung cancer model reveals how tumor location shapes the immune response
Researchers developed a powerful new way to study immune system behavior in lung tumors by combining a patient-relevant mouse model with single-cell technologies. The team provides one of the most comprehensive immune maps to date of lung adenocarcinoma, closely mimicking how tumors grow in patients.
A well-organized police patrol in the lymph nodes
A new study from the University of Lausanne identifies a specific subset of fibroblasts that produce Ccl19, an 'attractant signal' for cytotoxic T lymphocytes, bringing them into contact with type 1 dendritic cells. This mechanism is essential for proper immune cell organization and function.
Taming overactive immune systems with antibodies: hope for autoimmune diseases
A multi-institutional team has discovered a novel immune regulatory mechanism mediated by antibodies that selectively shut down overactive immune responses. The 'immune-induced TCR-like antibody' (iTab) can reduce disease severity and delay its onset in a mouse model of autoimmune disease.
AACR: Novel approach prevents cancer progression, spares surgery for majority of patients with precancerous oral lesions
A new treatment using low-dose nivolumab injections into precancerous oral lesions significantly reduced lesion size and risk of cancer progression. The study showed a 60% average reduction in lesion size and complete pathologic response in six patients, with no dose-limiting side effects.
More immune protection, less dominance: a new phase in the corona-development?
A new phase in the corona-development has been identified, with recent SARS-CoV-2 variants spreading less rapidly worldwide and BA.3.2 infecting young children more frequently than other strains. This suggests that global immunity from vaccination and infections may be making it harder for new variants to spread.
Understanding the diverse chemokine signals in tumor microenvironment for advanced immunotherapy
Chemokines regulate immune cell infiltration and local immunity in tumors, and targeting their receptor axis has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in cancer immunotherapy. Chemokine-modulating strategies combining with other immunotherapies have demonstrated considerable synergistic potential.
Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology supports April Head and Neck Awareness Month
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology has several active trials specifically designed to help people with head and neck cancers. Trials include testing high-dose prophylactic gabapentin to prevent opioid use during treatment, as well as immunotherapy with nivolumab and cabozantinib for mucosal melanoma and nasopharyngeal carcino...
Alliance study shows new promise against locally advanced lung cancer
A study by the Alliance Foundation Trials shows that combining immunotherapy and chemotherapy before surgery can help more patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer undergo complete cancer resection, improving their long-term health. The treatment also led to high rates of lymph node clearance and successful surgical re...
Scientists identify a “protective switch” in the most common blood cancer, opening new doors for diagnosis and treatment
Researchers discovered that HDAC7 plays a dual role in immune system development and cancer progression. Restoring HDAC7 in cancer cells can slow or stop tumor growth, offering new hope for diagnosis and treatment.
First-in-human trial primes immune system to accept donor livers
A first-in-human trial shows that an infusion of immune cells derived from a donor's blood can prime the recipient's immune system to accept a donor liver, potentially reducing lifelong immunosuppression. Eight out of 13 participants achieved complete withdrawal of immunosuppression and remained off for more than three years.
Fat cells play key role in avoidance learning
Researchers have uncovered a vital mechanism for survival by studying the interaction between brain cells and fat cells in fruit flies. The study found that the immune system's discovery of pathogens leads to a change in behavior, triggering an avoidance response through the release of neurotransmitters octopamine and dopamine.
The cold virus ‘hides’ and multiplies in the tonsils and adenoids, even in people without symptoms
A study reveals that the rhinovirus, causing the common cold, can infect immune cells in the tonsils and adenoids, remaining dormant for extended periods without symptoms. This persistence allows for unexpected transmission and triggers new outbreaks, particularly among children, who are a primary mode of transmission to grandparents.
“MitoCatch” delivers healthy mitochondria to diseased cells
Researchers developed MitoCatch, a system that targets disease-affected cells with healthy mitochondria. The innovation enables efficient cell type-specific mitochondrial delivery, improving survival of damaged neurons in vitro and retinal ganglion cells in vivo.
BioOne names five early-career researchers as 2026 Ambassador Award recipients
Five early-career scientists have been named recipients of the 2026 BioOne Ambassador Award for their ability to communicate complex research to diverse audiences. The winners, recognized for their outstanding research in fields like wildlife conservation and botany, will receive a $1,000 award and have their work showcased.
Researchers develop high-precision human immune aging clock, identifying RUNX1 as key target for T-cell senescence
A high-precision Human Immune Aging Clock (HIAC) has been developed to quantify immunosenescence and identify actionable intervention targets. The study identified RUNX1 as a functional 'brake' on T-cell senescence, and found that individuals with decelerated immune aging displayed a more youthful immune profile.
New biomarker to determine whether immunotherapy may work in people with colon and rectal cancer
A new biomarker has been discovered to help determine which colon cancer patients may benefit from immunotherapy, expanding treatment options for around 5% of patients. The biomarker, CTHRC1(+), identifies cells in the tumor microenvironment that can predict treatment response and disease outcomes.
New BSC study reveals, for the first time, that the female immune system changes much more than that of men with age
A new study by the Barcelona Supercomputing Center reveals that women's immune systems undergo more pronounced changes with age, leading to a greater susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. In contrast, men experience less extensive immune system changes, but are at higher risk for certain blood cancers.
A lung cancer that changes its identity may be hiding in plain sight
A new study maps how rare mixed tumors evolve into hybrid cell states and immune-protected neighborhoods, pointing to new ways to detect and treat combined small-cell lung cancer. The findings reveal that these tumors do not arise from two separate cancers but rather from a single ancestral cell that evolves over time.
Study links PFAS exposure to weaker immune response, underscoring need for water protections
A new study found that exposure to PFAS may weaken the immune system in adults, raising concerns about long-term health effects of these widely used chemicals. The research highlights the importance of reducing PFAS levels in drinking water to protect public health.
UMass Chan researchers shed light on how inflammation in GI tract rewires enteric nervous system
Research reveals inflammation in the GI tract changes how nerves are arranged, affecting intestinal muscle contractions. A protective stress response pathway helps neurons survive, preserving their structure and potentially offering a way to curtail persistent symptoms associated with IBD.
Scientists discover how key immune cells protect the prostate
Researchers reveal that immune system's T cells travel to the prostate to provide long-term protection against infections. Harnessing these disease-fighting cells could lead to new therapies for prostate cancer and inflammatory conditions.
Study shows new drug compounds dial down inflammation without compromising immunity
Researchers developed new drug compounds called ENDOtollins that reduce inflammation in immune cells while leaving the body's ability to fight infections intact. These compounds block a specific protein interaction in immune cells, offering a potential targeted approach to autoimmune diseases.
Researchers identify blood-based biomarker for cancer risk in people with Lynch Syndrome
A new blood-based biomarker has been discovered to help identify individuals at higher risk of developing cancer in people with Lynch Syndrome. The biomarker uses immune signatures detected in blood samples to provide unique characteristics that can detect cancer risk, allowing for early detection and personalized surveillance.
Alliance marks Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is enrolling adolescent and young adult cancer patients in various trials, including genetic services and treatment studies. These trials aim to address longstanding gaps in care and improve outcomes for AYAs with cancer.
Scientists from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and colleagues create the first-ever immune-capable “cervix-on-a-Chip” to study sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Researchers developed an immune-capable 'cervix-on-a-Chip' model to study sexually transmitted infections (STIs), enabling a more accurate understanding of these conditions and the potential for better treatments. The model replicated key aspects of human biology, including the cervical microenvironment, microbiomes, and immune system.
Characteristics of CD4+T-cell reduction and pulmonary infections in critically ill immunocompromised patients
A retrospective study of 40 immunocompromised ICU patients found associations between low CD4+T-cell counts and specific lung pathogens. Patients with severe CD4 depletion had higher proportions of fungal infections, while moderate immunosuppression was linked to Streptococcus pneumoniae.
The influence of sleep and diet on human peripheral immunity and chronic health conditions
Research found that sleep and diet impact immune cell proportions and protein expression, with long-term late sleep onset triggering inflammation. The study's indexes reflect human immune health or chronic diseases, providing a foundation for future health assessment and management.
Decoding the chemical messengers: Gut microbes talk to the whole body through metabolites
Research systematically maps how bacterial metabolites influence disease progression and immune cell functions, highlighting their dual effects on the body. The review emphasizes the need for holistic regulation of metabolite profiles to achieve precision interventions.
New biomarker for immunoglobulin a nephropathy identified
Researchers have discovered a new biomarker for immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy, which is an autoimmune disease that can lead to kidney failure. Complement pathway proteins, including CFHR1, were found to be overexpressed in patients with IgA nephropathy, suggesting a potential treatment target and diagnostic marker.
Mizzou team discovers what makes all-female fish species a scientific ‘miracle’
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that the Amazon molly's ability to reproduce asexually is due to gene conversion, which preserves and repairs DNA inherited from both parent species. This process allows the fish to maintain genetic health despite millennia of cloning.
New technique reveals body-wide cellular processes
Researchers have developed a new system to map gene expression across whole mouse bodies, providing a toolkit for studying molecular and cellular processes. The technique allows for the analysis of inflammation in every cell type and organ tissue, paving the way for a 'virtual mouse' model that could be used for research.
Triple combination therapy before surgery helps boost immunity against aggressive soft tissue sarcomas
Researchers found that combining targeted radiation therapy with BO-112 and anti-PD-1 therapy before surgery activated the immune system to fight cancer. This approach reshaped the tumor microenvironment to support T-cell activity, resulting in fewer cancer cells and a more effective anti-tumor response.
Large mapping of hereditary differences in the immune system
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have mapped immune gene variation across multiple global populations, identifying common genetic variants that affect antibody production. The findings may contribute to understanding infection susceptibility and inform vaccine design.
A transcription factor phosphorylation switch orchestrates plant immune homeostasis
A transcription factor phosphorylation switch, OsAHL23, dynamically balances immune responses and growth in rice. The switch is precisely controlled by the kinase OsMPK5 and phosphatase PP2A-A.
Ludwig Lausanne’s Ping-Chih Ho elected AAAS Fellow
Ludwig Lausanne's Ping-Chih Ho has been recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his distinguished contributions to immune metabolism. His research focuses on elucidating the role of metabolism in anti-tumor immunity and advancing cancer therapy.
Immune cells speak the language of nerves: HKU team reviews emerging roles of neurotransmitters in immunity
A recent review highlights how immune cells synthesize and release neurotransmitters to modulate immune responses, blurring the boundaries between the nervous and immune systems.
HPV vaccination uptake in adults shaped by knowledge and medical advice
A nationwide survey in Switzerland found that HPV vaccination uptake among adults was lower than among adolescents, with only 27% of those aged 18-45 vaccinated. The survey also revealed significant differences between genders, age groups, and levels of knowledge about HPV, highlighting the need for targeted information and tailored co...
Local immune coordination in the lung reveals a new layer of defense
Researchers discovered a new layer of defense in the lungs, where specialized immune cells coordinate a local response to viral infections. The study found that these cells produce a protein called HIF-1α, which activates neighboring immune cells to mount a coordinated defense.
New lipid nanoparticle design improves precision of mRNA vaccine delivery
Researchers redesigned a key component of lipid nanoparticles to steer particles toward lymph nodes, reducing off-target delivery. This advancement could make mRNA vaccines more efficient, potentially achieving strong immune protection at lower doses.
Chronic stress and the course of cancer
A systematic review highlights the biological mechanisms linking chronic stress to cancer course, including HPA axis activation and immune suppression. Chronic stress affects tumor growth, treatment resistance, and patient outcomes differently across various cancers.