Articles tagged with Natural Killer Cells
A recent study found that women with malfunctioning natural killer cells may be at a higher risk of developing placental accreta. If confirmed in humans, this discovery could lead to new preventative measures and reduce the need for fertility-ending surgeries.
Researchers have discovered a previously unreported strategy employed by the virus responsible for chickenpox and shingles to powerfully inhibit natural killer cell function. This impairment enables the virus to paralyze natural killer cells, rendering them unable to respond to target cells, thereby evading the immune response.
Researchers discover parvifoline AA, a natural compound, stimulates NKG2D ligands on cancer cells, making them more recognizable and targetable by NK cells. This increases the effectiveness of NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy.
A new study published in Cell suggests that targeting immune cells called natural killer cells may help clear out damaged axons and promote healthy regrowth, potentially decreasing chronic neuropathic pain. The findings could lead to a greater understanding of the mechanisms behind neuropathic pain and improve treatment options.
Scientists are conducting a phase I clinical trial combining NK cell therapy with an immunocytokine to target children with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma. The treatment aims to kill cancer cells in a less toxic way than conventional therapies.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute found that the S100A14 protein is expressed at higher levels in these individuals than control donors, activating natural killer cells to defend against HIV. This discovery may lead to novel approaches for prevention of HIV infection by manipulating host immune defense.
Scientists have discovered that excess fat in obese individuals clogs up the molecular machinery of Natural Killer cells, preventing them from killing tumour cells. This research outlines possible paths to re-programming and restoring the cancer-fighting abilities of these cells.
Research discovered that actin cytoskeleton remodeling in breast cancer cells protects them from immune cell attack by limiting the transfer of cytotoxic proteins. The 'actin response' is associated with increased levels of immune-inhibitory ligands, rendering cancer cells resistant to NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
Researchers from MIT, SMART, and NTU have discovered a new molecular pathway that could boost the body's Natural Killer cells to fight malaria infection. The treatment targets MDA5, a receptor used by NK cells to identify infected red blood cells.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens reveals how malaria infection triggers the immune system's first line of defense by activating natural killer cells through the MDA5 receptor. Treatment with a small molecule that activates MDA5 restores the ability of non-responder natural killer cells to clear infected red blood cells.
A researcher at UCF College of Medicine has discovered a way to make immunotherapy viable for thousands by using the body's own natural killer (NK) cells in a new way. Activated NK cells can change the cellular makeup of tumors, allowing the immune system to attack cancer more effectively.
Researchers discovered that NK cells can kill malaria-infected blood cells when activated by antibodies from people living in areas with high malaria transmission rates. The study provides a new mechanism for creating a malaria vaccine, offering an additional immune response to those already known.
Researchers found that glutamine is not a primary fuel for NK cells, but rather glucose. This discovery has significant implications for cancer therapies under development by pharmaceutical companies.
Researchers have found a blood-based genetic biomarker, KLRD1, which determines an individual's susceptibility to the flu. Those with higher levels of this gene have better immune defenses and are less likely to fall ill.
Researchers at UTHealth and Ohio State University combined virotherapy with boosting the natural immune system to fight cancer. The study found that increasing the number of externally added NK cells strengthens the ability to fight cancer.
A new study from Boston University has identified larger-than-expected families of genes related to the mammalian immune system in the Egyptian fruit bat. This finding may lead to a deeper understanding of virus transmission and better treatments for humans infected with deadly pathogens.
A study of the KhoeSan population found high levels of immune cell diversity and divergence in two distinct groups. Researchers identified unique genetic variants that impact natural killer cell function and combat disease specific to this geographic area.
Scientists at Iowa State University have used leftover blood donor cells to gain insights into how natural killer cells interact with antibodies. They found that the carbohydrate modifications on these cells result in higher affinity, potentially leading to improved antibody therapies.
Researchers identify subset of natural killer cells that secrete growth-promoting factors, reversing impaired fetal growth. These cells may hold key to treating fetal growth restriction and recurrent spontaneous abortion, improving maternal-fetal microenvironment.
Scientists have discovered two new functions of natural killer cells in the womb, which can help regulate embryo implantation. The cells remodel and refresh the lining of the womb, but an imbalance in this process may increase the risk of miscarriage.
Researchers found that inhibiting autophagy in tumor cells increases the production of CCL5, a cytokine that attracts NK cells. This leads to a significant reduction in tumor size and improved survival rates for melanoma patients.
A recent study has found that natural killer cells play an important role in protecting against CMV-induced hearing loss in mice. The interaction between NK cells and the viral protein m157 is crucial in preventing hearing loss, with mice lacking this interaction being more susceptible to hearing loss.
Scientists discovered how cancer-fighting Natural Killer cells power up and how cholesterol-like molecules cut them off. Activated NK cells use a unique energy production system that can be disrupted by oxysterols, which may explain poor performance in patients with high cholesterol levels.
Researchers at University of Southampton discover natural killer cells can recognize global pathogens through a single receptor, paving the way for a new type of vaccine. The study identifies a non-variable part of the virus called the NS3 helicase protein as a key target for the immune system.
Researchers at New Zealand's University of Otago have discovered that Natural Killer (NK) cells act as helper cells to start the immune response, patrolling the body to destroy abnormal cells. The NK cells' ability to recognize fragments of tumor cells released into the blood enhances the immune system's recognition of these fragments,...
A study in mice reveals how natural killer cells can cause a fetus to fail to grow or lead to miscarriages. Researchers identified potential treatments, including IVIG and targeted therapies, to prevent FNAIT-related miscarriages.
A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital reveals that natural killer cells in patients with severe asthma are disabled from resolving inflammation, leading to ineffective corticosteroid treatment. Researchers also identified lipoxins as a potential therapeutic approach, as they preserve NK cell pro-resolving functions.
Researchers at UC San Diego are working on developing new treatments for Zika virus infections and ovarian cancer using stem cell-derived natural killer cells. They have already reported promising results, suggesting that some FDA-approved drugs may be effective against the virus.
Researchers have found a protein called BCL-2 crucial in controlling the reservoir of NK cells, which may be vulnerable to new medicines that inhibit it. Boosting NK cell numbers with IL-15 could offer a valuable approach to boosting immunity against viral infections or cancer.
A University of Central Florida researcher has developed a nanoparticle technology that increases natural killer cells 10,000-fold, paving the way for accelerated clinical trials. The therapy shows promise in treating acute myeloid leukemia and could lead to the creation of on-site cancer treatments.
Researchers discover new function of STAT1 in activating natural killer cells to eliminate tumor cells. Without this newly identified function, NK cells are still effective in eliminating tumors.
Researchers discovered that natural killer cells can remember and target pigmented skin cells, potentially treating malignant melanoma and vitiligo. The immune system uses the NLRP3 inflammasome as a checkpoint to trigger this response.
Walter and Eliza Hall Institute researchers have identified a protein 'brake' that controls Natural Killer cell activity, revealing a potential therapeutic target. The study showed that removing this brake improves Natural Killer cells' ability to fight metastatic melanoma, offering hope for new immunotherapies.
Researchers have discovered a tollerance mechanism in NK cells that restrains their ability to kill cancer cells. Increasing IL-15 levels may improve immune responses against tumors.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified the role of natural killer cells in abdominal fat inflammation and insulin resistance. By modulating NK cell activity, they found that inflammation in abdominal fat is suppressed and insulin resistance improves.
Researchers have found a way to activate natural killer cells, which hunt and destroy cancer cells, by targeting the 'switch' protein ID2. This discovery could lead to new treatments for breast, colon, and melanoma cancers.
Researchers found that NK cells produce VEGF-A to promote tumor growth when STAT5 is inhibited. This discovery challenges the use of STAT5 inhibitors in cancer treatment, which could have unintended consequences for patients.
Researchers discovered that mice exercising on a running wheel had slower cancer growth due to increased immune cell mobilization. The adrenaline rush triggered by exercise stimulated natural killer cells to attack tumors.
A study by Tufts University researchers found that high folic acid intake causes a lowered immune response in aged mice, particularly affecting natural killer cells. The study used an aged mouse model and found that excess folic acid impaired NK cell development, leading to reduced immunity against viral infections and cancer.
A Phase I study combining natural killer cells with high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation showed promising results in treating multiple myeloma. The treatment resulted in no toxicity or graft-versus-host disease, offering a potential new approach for patients.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine discovered a new gene variant in the Khoe-San population that reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia and leads to larger, healthier babies. The mutation alters the binding of immune cells to placental cells, resulting in better blood supply to the developing embryo.
Researchers discovered that cytokine therapy enhances natural killer cell functions against tumors lacking MHC class I. The treatment restored NK cell activity and reduced tumor size in mice, supporting further investigation into its potential as a cancer treatment.
Researchers found that blocking STAT3 increases killing activity against melanoma and leukemia cells in Natural Killer (NK) cells. This increase in effectiveness also reduces metastasis of melanoma cells. The findings suggest a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment by boosting NK cell function.
Melanoma cells that have spread to the lungs can be killed by highly specialized immune cells called natural killer cells. The discovery reveals a new target for boosting or depleting these immune cells to treat disease.
Lung cancer cells use high levels of TGF-β to suppress NK cell activity, leading to reduced DAP12 expression and impaired cytotoxic pathways. The researchers identified a critical role for miR-183 in this process, providing new insight into the exploitation of immune evasion mechanisms by cancer cells.
Researchers found that young natural killer cells play a key role in preventing infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein-Barr Virus. A potential vaccination is being explored to protect against EBV infection and reduce the risk of developing Hodgkin lymphoma.
A new clinical trial combines NK cell therapy with an immunocytokine to target children with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma, promising a less toxic treatment option. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison will use haploidentical natural killer cells infused with hu14.18-IL2 to destroy cancer cells.
Cancer-killing natural killer (NK) cells are controlled by the epigenetic process involving enzyme MYSM1, which regulates gene expression and cell maturation. The study paves the way for developing more effective immunotherapies against cancer.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that patients with donor bone marrow carrying a specific KIR protein variation had improved survival and reduced disease progression after bone marrow transplantation. The study identified a 60% decrease in death risk and 62% reduction in disease progression using this approach.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a crucial link between elevated uterine NK cells and deficient steroid production. Elevated NK cells indicate reduced formation of essential fats and vitamins necessary for pregnancy nutrition.
A recent study by Eva Maria Putz and colleagues at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna has found that phosphorylation of a specific serine residue (ser-727) in the STAT1 protein regulates natural killer cell cytotoxicity. This regulation is crucial for tumor surveillance and preventing cancer development.
Scientists at Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research discovered natural killer cells have optimal immune response balance, having less active NK cells during early stages of infection improves survival. The overproduction of interferon IFN-γ can block recruitment of neutrophilic granulocytes, leading to fatal sepsis.
Researchers have developed a new approach to enhance NK cell activity against cancer, leading to significant slowing of tumor growth and improved survival rates. The study found that prior radiation treatment enhances the effectiveness of the therapy.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute discover a novel cell signaling process that improves immune cell function, potentially leading to new treatments for cancer and infectious diseases. The study identifies a key regulator of immune function and suggests the development of drugs that enhance Natural Killer cell activity.
Researchers at the University of Southampton will investigate manipulating natural killer cells to attack hepatocellular cancer (HCC) cells. The study aims to create a method for clinical trials using NK cells for immunotherapy, with potential for improving treatment outcomes for HCC patients.
A U-M study reveals that natural killer cells, a crucial part of the immune system, are not fully matured until adulthood. By blocking a specific cell signaling pathway, infants' immune systems can be boosted, potentially reducing their susceptibility to infections.
A recent study found that targeting the JAK1 and JAK2 tyrosine kinase pathways can increase tumor cell susceptibility to natural killer cell-mediated death. Pharmacological inhibition of these pathways was shown to enhance tumor cell killing, making them a promising target for cancer therapy.
Researchers from IDIBELL have discovered that human NK cells play a crucial role in rejecting porcine chondrocytes. By understanding this process, they aim to develop a method to reduce rejection and enable successful xenotransplantation of pig cartilage cells.
Researchers have discovered that mutations in the MCM4 gene are responsible for a complex inherited condition affecting adrenal glands, growth, and immune cells in the Irish Traveller community. The findings provide deep insight into DNA replication and genomic instability, potentially increasing cancer risk.
Researchers at Stanford University have identified a sequential treatment regimen that enhances the effectiveness of trastuzumab in xenotransplant models of breast cancer. Trastuzumab activates natural killer cells to kill HER2-overexpressing tumor cells.