Lymphocytes
Articles tagged with Lymphocytes
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.
An unprecedented view of the immune system’s killer cells
Researchers visualize immune synapse and cytotoxic granules with unprecedented level of detail, revealing new perspectives in immuno-oncology. The study uses cryo-expansion microscopy to provide a near-native view of T lymphocyte mechanisms.
NUTM1 rearrangements cause a highly treatable form of infant leukemia
Researchers found that NUTM1 rearranged leukemia is distinct from other forms, with decreased DNA methylation and increased lifespan of blood cells. Leukemias with BRD9-NUTM1 fusion are extremely sensitive to chemotherapy, leading to improved clinical outcomes.
Upcoming Alliance webinar highlights latest cancer treatment advances
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology will host a webinar highlighting recent clinical advances in breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and leukemia. Researchers will present key findings from ASH and SABCS meetings, impacting treatment outcomes.
Discrimination linked to diminished immune system function
Researchers found that people experiencing everyday discrimination have elevated levels of "exhausted" white blood cells, indicating chronic stress may hamper the immune system. This study suggests social experiences like discrimination shape immune health at the cellular level and contribute to biological aging.
Genetic risk factor and viral infection jointly contribute to MS
Research reveals molecular interaction between environmental and genetic risk factors triggers MS. EBV and gene variants HLA-DR15 haplotype play key roles in disease onset.
USC researchers develop next-generation CAR T cells that show stronger, safer response in animal models
Researchers at USC's Keck School of Medicine have developed a new type of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell that elicits a more controlled immune response to cancer. The engineered CAR T cells may offer a way to more safely treat blood cancers and reduce the chance of relapse.
Decoding the T-cell burst: Signature genes that predict T-cell expansion in cancer immunotherapy
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science identified genes that predict CD8+ T cell expansion in cancer immunotherapy. A 'signature gene set' or 'expansion signature' was found to identify primed T cells for growth, predicting treatment response and offering a potential guide for new therapies.
Identification of antralization-specific factors in peripheral blood and gastric mucosa of patients with upper gastrointestinal symptoms
A prospective cohort study found that increased lymphocyte counts, decreased serum LPS levels, and specific mucin expression patterns are associated with antralization. The study suggests that acid reflux is closely linked to antralization.
Researchers find potential link between chronic pain, immune condition
A study led by Julie Pilitsis, MD, PhD, found a possible connection between chronic pain and eosinophilia, a white blood cell condition, in patients undergoing spinal cord stimulation or implanted pain medicine pumps. The study suggests that eosinophilia may be an immune biomarker for chronic pain.
New mechanism revealed: How leukemia cells trick the immune system
A team at Lund University has discovered a surface protein, SLAMF6, that helps leukemia cells evade the immune system. The researchers developed an antibody to block this mechanism, restoring the immune system's ability to kill cancer cells in laboratory trials and mice.
Antibody-making cells reveal new function in response to flu infection
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine discovered a new function of antibody-making B cells in response to flu infection. These cells produce a key signaling molecule called interleukin-1 beta, which is necessary for developing a robust immune response and forming optimal germinal centers.
Elucidating the mechanism and significance behind the rise of immature neutrophils during infection and inflammation
Researchers found that immature neutrophils migrate into inflamed tissues upon stimulation by interferon-γ, suppressing inflammation and reducing tissue damage. In humans, these cells also produce interleukin-10, which increases in the blood of COVID-19 patients.
Immune cell therapy for advanced head and neck cancer helps stabilize disease
A phase 2 clinical trial found that autologous tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) cell therapy helped stabilize metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in some patients. The median response duration was 7.6 months, with cancer stabilization occurring in 64% of patients.
T cells take aim at Chikungunya virus
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.
Timepoint at which developing B-cells become cancerous impacts leukemia treatment
The study found that the stage of normal cell development at which B cells transform into leukemic cells impacts treatment outcomes for pediatric patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). Researchers identified a 'multipotency score' to predict clinical outcomes, providing valuable insights into drug resistance and str...
Cancer immunotherapy could get cheaper, more widely available with new technology
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a new device called CAPGLO that uses magnets to isolate disease-fighting T cells, making CAR T cell therapy potentially less expensive and more accessible. The technology aims to reduce the cost of immunotherapy from thousands to just hundreds of dollars.
Small device, big impact: Improving safety of life-saving treatments for children with leukemia
Researchers developed a microfluidic device to alleviate limitations of conventional blood-filtering machines used in treating hyperleukocytosis in children. The new device separates blood cells by size without platelet loss or adverse effects, enabling safe leukapheresis procedures.
The curious immune cells caught between worlds
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered that innate-like T cells mature differently in humans than in mice, with age playing a critical role in their development. This finding has significant implications for the development of immunotherapeutics, highlighting the need to consider human-specific differences when te...
Healthy diet with less sugar is linked to younger biological age
Researchers at UC San Francisco found a link between healthy diets and a younger biological age. Even when people eat healthy diets, each gram of added sugar is associated with an increase in epigenetic age. The Mediterranean diet had the strongest association with lower epigenetic age.
Unravelling a mechanism of Group 2 innate lymphoid immune cell development
Researchers at Chiba University have discovered a new mechanism of ILC2 immune cell development, which may exacerbate allergic diseases. The study found that the induction of GATA3 expression by an ILC2-specific super-enhancer is essential for ILC2 differentiation.
Scientists turn white fat cells into calorie-burning beige fat
Researchers at UCSF have discovered a way to turn ordinary white fat cells into beige fat cells that burn calories, opening the door to developing new weight-loss drugs. The approach uses a protein called KLF-15 and may avoid side effects associated with current treatments.
Study elucidates role of “G900” gene enhancers in asthma-associated inflammation
Researchers found that mice lacking the G900 region exhibit reduced inflammatory response and suppressed Th2 differentiation when exposed to allergens. This discovery highlights the importance of the G900 gene enhancer in regulating immune responses and has implications for personalized treatments and asthma care.
New insights into T and B cells offer hope for autoimmune disease sufferers
Researchers have discovered that metabolism plays a crucial role in the balance between T and B cells, leading to autoimmune diseases. The study suggests that targeting the interaction between immune cells and metabolism could lead to more effective treatments for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
White blood cell “nets” could be early warning sign of major immunotherapy complication
A study from Michigan Medicine reveals a connection between neutrophil activation and severe cytokine release syndrome (CRS), a potentially life-threatening reaction to CAR T-Cell therapy. Researchers identified biomarkers of NETosis, a process in which neutrophils create webs that may contribute to CRS.
Underestimated risk of lung transplantation researched
Researchers found PLS occurs significantly more frequently in unequal AB0 settings, leading to haemolysis and anaemia in patients. Blood group A patients with O transplants are particularly at risk.
WVU pharmacy faculty member launches study to make vaccines more effective
A new study aims to enhance and prolong vaccine effectiveness by delivering adjuvants to white blood cells using lipid nanoparticles. The research, led by WVU professor Sharan Bobbala, has the potential to provide broader protection against evolving viruses and multiple diseases.
USC Stem Cell study shows how gene activity modulates the amount of immune cell production in mice
Researchers at USC Stem Cell lab discovered nearly 40 genes associated with immune cell production, including those related to diseases like myelodysplastic syndrome. The study found that gene activity was linked to specific levels of immune cell production, offering insights for improving bone marrow transplantation strategies.
The secret life of CD4+ T cells: from helpers to melanoma fighters
Researchers have revealed CD4+ T cells can work effectively on their own to control melanoma, challenging conventional understanding. Harnessing their potential therapeutically holds great promise for improving current cancer immunotherapies.
Gulf War Illness significantly reduces white blood cells’ ability to make energy
A new Duke University-led study finds that Gulf War Illness significantly reduces the ability of white blood cells to make energy, creating measurable biochemical differences in veterans with the disease. The study reveals impaired mitochondrial function, leading to lower levels of extracellular acidification and oxygen consumption.
Intestinal bacteria metabolite promotes capture of antigens by dendritic cells
A team of researchers from Okayama University found that short-chain fatty acids produced by intestinal bacteria trigger elongation of dendrites in dendritic cells, capturing intestinal pathogens and enhancing immune responses. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments targeting dendritic cells to prevent diseases.
Shorter white blood cell telomeres linked to higher dementia risk
A large-scale study of the UK Biobank data found that shorter white blood cell telomeres are associated with a higher risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Telomere length was also linked to smaller total brain volume and reduced brain structure.
ER-positive breast cancer presents differing metabolic signatures in African American, white women
Researchers found that African American women with ER-positive breast cancer have decreased levels of amino acids and increased levels of fatty acids compared to non-Hispanic white women. This study may help explain the higher mortality rates in African American women with the disease, suggesting potential new screening strategies.
Study reports discovery of new cell type in thymus
Researchers at UC Riverside have discovered a new cell type in the thymus that is similar to M cells found in the gut and airways. The newly discovered cells are like gatekeepers, acting as antigen-delivery cells for the immune system in organs such as the intestine and lung.
Umbilical cord white blood cells developed to advance cancer treatment
Scientists have developed a platform to enhance the innate ability of white blood cells from umbilical cord blood to treat various types of solid and blood cancers. Pre-clinical studies showed that these cells, known as gamma delta T-cells (GDT), possess antiviral and antitumour properties.
Discovery could lead to more treatments to prevent cancer and infectious diseases
Scientists have uncovered how gamma delta T cells develop in the body and produce an immune response. The discovery could lead to the development of more preventive treatments for cancer and highly infectious diseases.
Space travel alters gene expression in white blood cells, weakening our immune system
A study found that space travel causes a rapid decrease in the strength of an astronaut's immune system due to changes in gene expression. Most genes returned to normal levels within weeks after returning to Earth, but there is still uncertainty about when full resistance returns.
Family resemblance: How T cells could fight many coronaviruses at once
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have found that T cells can recognize shared viral targets between multiple coronaviruses, including common cold coronaviruses and SARS-CoV-2. This cross-reactivity could be harnessed to develop vaccines that protect against multiple types of coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2.
Study results validate a rapid diagnostic test for sepsis in the emergency department
A rapid diagnostic test for sepsis has been validated in the emergency department, providing a reliable aid for early detection. The study found that the test improved sepsis triage and reduced time to diagnosis, leading to better patient outcomes.
The aging mouse prostate: kinetics of lymphocyte infiltration
Researchers tracked immune cell clusters in the aging mouse prostate using highly multiplexed immune profiling. Early adulthood sees myeloid cells, while between 6-12 months old, there's a profound shift to T and B lymphocyte-dominance. The study reveals new insight into prostatic inflammaging and the window for interventions.
Human immune cells react to non-nutritive sweeteners
A new pilot study found that even low levels of saccharin, acesulfame-K and cyclamate can modulate the copy rate of genes in white blood cells, sensitizing them to certain immune stimuli. The researchers also discovered that taste receptors may act as sensors for the cellular immune system.
LY6 gene family: potential tumor antigens and prognostic biomarkers in endometrial cancer
The LY6 gene family has been found to be overexpressed in uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC), leading to poor patient survival. Several LY6 genes have been identified as potential tumor-associated antigens and biomarkers for UCEC detection and prognosis.
Got milky spots?
A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals a unique subset of fibroblastic reticular cells in omental milky spots crucial for immune cell recruitment to prevent sepsis. These cells regulate the display of CXCL12, recruiting lymphocytes to sites of inflammation.
In search of inflammatory Achilles heel
Researchers at Kyoto University found that neutrophils instruct macrophages to form a bacteria-permissive microenvironment, which could have implications for cancer treatment. The study suggests that A9, an enzyme expressed in neutrophils, may play a key role in this process.
The marathon runners of the immune system
A biological messenger called interleukin-33 (IL-33) plays a crucial role in maintaining cytotoxic T cells' 'marathon runner' state, allowing them to provide sustained immunity against chronic infections. This finding has implications for improving treatment of hepatitis C and cancer immunotherapy.
Oncotarget | HALP score: Prognostic ability in cancers - a literature review
The HALP score, a novel immune-nutritional marker, has been linked to prognostic ability in different cancer types. It integrates indicators of immune status and nutritional status, showing promise as a cost-effective biomarker.
Pungent ginger compound puts immune cells on heightened alert
A recent study by Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at TUM found that a pungent ginger compound puts immune cells on heightened alert. The compound, [6]-gingerol, stimulates white blood cells via the TRPV1 receptor, which plays a role in the perception of painful heat stimuli and spiciness.
Chemotherapy in the afternoon dramatically improves treatment outcomes in female lymphoma patients
Researchers found that female patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma treated in the afternoon had reduced mortality rates and cancer recurrence compared to those treated in the morning. The study suggests that timing chemotherapy delivery according to an individual's circadian clock may improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers identify how certain immune cells contribute to worse survival in patients with HER2-positive breast cancer
Researchers found that HER2-positive breast cancer patients with high levels of tumour infiltrating lymphocytes in residual disease have significantly shorter overall survival. High levels of TILs are associated with poorer outcomes, while lower levels are linked to improved survival rates.
A promising drug candidate discovered for the prevention of type 1 diabetes
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified a promising drug candidate, TYK2 inhibitor, for preventing type 1 diabetes. The study found that inhibiting TYK2 expression reduces the destruction of pancreatic beta cells, but may also reduce beta cell production in earlier stages.
Immune cells in the intestine have a sweet tooth
A new study led by Marc Veldhoen found that tissue resident white blood cells use glucose as an energy source and have a faster metabolism than circulating lymphocytes. This discovery highlights the importance of having a balanced diet for a healthy immune response.
Leukemia vulnerability discovered causing drug sensitivity
Leukemia cells exploit metabolic pathways to evade programmed cell death, but researchers identified a weak spot in acute lymphoblastic leukemia that can be targeted with experimental drugs. Inhibiting glutathione metabolism induces ferroptosis, leading to the death of malignant lymphocytes.
New clues to how maternal antibodies can protect babies from cytomegalovirus
Researchers found that mothers who didn't transmit HCMV to their infants had higher levels of antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis, suggesting a non-neutralizing immunity mechanism. This finding has implications for the development of effective HCMV vaccines.
Programmed cell death in cancer cells: Overcoming resistance through paraptosis-inducing compounds
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed novel complex-peptide hybrids that induce programmed cell death in apoptosis-resistant cancer cells through paraptosis. The compounds, syn-6 and anti-6, inhibit cell death by uncoupling mitochondrial calcium uptake and inducing cytoplasmic vacuolization, leading to cell death.
App to help doctors help patients with leukemia
Researchers have developed an app to help doctors identify patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) at risk of developing infections, allowing for earlier treatment. The app uses blood test results and genetic data to predict patient risk, improving treatment outcomes and reducing pressure on the healthcare system.
Acute stress may be detrimental to fighting off COVID-19 and influenza
This study shows how specific brain regions control the immune response during acute stress, highlighting the detrimental effect on fighting off infection. Researchers found that acute stress prompts a major migration of immune cells, diminishing an immune response to viruses like COVID-19 and influenza.
New tool for visualizing leukocytes in the brain
Researchers have developed a new tool to visualize leukocytes in the brain vasculature during in vivo two-photon laser scanning microscopy. The tool uses a fluorescent antibody targeting CD45, a ubiquitously expressed protein on white blood cells, allowing for tracking of circulating leukocytes over time and space.
New knowledge on lymphoid cell maturity could lead to more effective IBD therapies
A study at Karolinska Institutet has revealed that a subgroup of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) can accumulate in the intestinal mucosa of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These immature cells can be influenced by gut environment factors, leading to increased cell division and cytokine production.
Discovery of an immune escape mechanism promoting Listeria infection of the central nervous system
Researchers at Institut Pasteur discovered a mechanism that enables infected cells to evade immune responses and infect the brain, leading to life-long persistence of bacteria. This finding has implications for understanding other intracellular pathogens and developing new therapeutic strategies.