Cytokines

First-in-human trial demonstrates promise of implantable cytokine factories for ovarian cancer

Sauna bathing may boost immune responses

New sequencing method exposes hidden gaps in immune signaling

Researchers have developed a new single-cell technology called CIPHER-seq that captures the timing of cytokine activity with greater accuracy. This allows for a clearer view of immune cell behavior and strengthens the foundation for understanding cancer, inflammation, and treatment resistance.

Unveiling powerful synergies between plant compounds that dramatically reduce inflammation

Researchers discovered that pairing familiar plant-derived compounds can suppress inflammatory signals more effectively than using each compound independently. The study found that certain combinations increased the anti-inflammatory effect several hundred-fold compared to single ingredients alone.

Could a dietary supplement make the difference between life and death during illness?

Salk Institute scientists discover that dietary supplementation of the amino acid methionine protects infected mice against inflammation-related wasting, blood-brain barrier dysfunction, and death. Methionine boosts kidney filtration, reducing circulating cytokine levels and improving disease outcomes.

New study identifies key protein driving inflammation with age

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School identified a key protein called GDF3 that drives inflammatory responses in older adults. The study showed that GDF3 signals through SMAD2/3, inducing permanent changes in the genome and increasing inflammatory cytokines.

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.

Inflammatory biomarkers in ischemic stroke: mechanisms, clinical applications, and future directions

The inflammatory response plays a dual role in ischemic stroke, exacerbating damage while facilitating tissue repair. Key biomarkers like IL-6, CRP, and MMP-9 aid early diagnosis, prognostic evaluation, and guiding thrombectomy, offering promising therapeutic targets for precision medicine.

Nasal therapeutic vaccine for treating cervical cancer

Researchers at Chiba University have developed a nasal therapeutic vaccine targeting E7 oncoprotein, which is produced by high-risk strains of HPV associated with cervical cancer. The vaccine triggers an immune response in the cervical mucosa, providing local protection against pathogens and foreign particles.

Researchers at MIT develop new nanoparticles that stimulate the immune system to attack ovarian tumors

MIT researchers have developed new nanoparticles that deliver the immune-stimulating molecule IL-12 directly to ovarian tumors, eliciting a strong response and clearing tumors in over 80% of mice. This treatment combines with checkpoint inhibitors to launch an attack on cancer cells without causing side effects.

Unlocking the immune system’s instruction manual

Australian scientists have discovered how T follicular helper cells tailor their behavior to different infections, paving the way for improved vaccine design and targeted therapies. The study sheds light on a molecular 'instruction manual' guiding antibody production and long-term immunity.

Rare immune cells offer new hope for treating acute respiratory distress syndrome

Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo found that basophils suppress lung inflammation during ARDS recovery, suggesting potential treatment strategies. Basophils release interleukin-4, which helps immune cells coordinate responses and alleviate lung inflammation.

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.

Brain Network Disorders review highlights role of JAK2 pathway in worsening ischemic stroke outcomes

The JAK2-STAT3 pathway contributes to inflammation and injury after ischemic stroke. Targeting this pathway shows promise for reducing brain swelling, neuronal death, and improving recovery. Several inhibitors have been found effective in preclinical models, including Tyrphostin AG490, Ruxolitinib, and natural compounds like genistein.

Immune cells promoting tumor growth? How dying cancer cells turn their enemies into allies

Scientists at Nagoya University discovered that dying cancer cells can trigger an inflammatory feedback loop that promotes tumor growth. When macrophages consume dying cancer cells, they produce cytokines that activate growth signals in remaining cancer cells.

Improving T cell responses to vaccines

Scientists have modified mRNA vaccines to include the cytokine IL-12, enhancing T cell responses and improving protection against diseases such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, melanoma, and listeria infection. The study's findings suggest a promising approach to enhance immune stimulation against cancer and other pathogens.

Preventing cellular senescence to prevent neuroinflammation

Researchers found that surgery induces accumulation of senescent cells in the hippocampal region of aged mice, leading to neuroinflammation. Dosing with a combination of Dasatinib and Quercetin reduced surgery-induced inflammation.

Cancer-fighting implant shows promise in treating melanoma, pancreatic and colorectal tumors

A Rice University-led team developed an implantable 'cytokine factory' that triggers potent immune responses against hard-to-treat cancers. The IL-12 cytokine factory successfully induces the recruitment of tumor-targeting T cells, eliminating local and distal tumors in preclinical models.

Molecules that fight infection also act on the brain, inducing anxiety or sociability

Researchers found that immune molecule IL-17 influences brain regions to induce either anxiety in the amygdala or sociable behavior in the somatosensory cortex. This discovery highlights the interconnectedness of the immune and nervous systems.

Protein in the nose provides information about COPD

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new method to diagnose COPD by analyzing protein levels in nasal lavage. The study found that elevated IL-26 levels can indicate an early phase of the disease, and may lead to new treatment strategies targeting this cytokine.

Researchers find missing link in autoimmune disorder

Scientists have identified a key component in launching immune activity and overactivity, providing a potential target for therapies that could prevent debilitating illnesses. The researchers discovered a protein in cells that spurs the release of infection-fighting molecules, which is essential for controlling the disease.

Memory is impaired in aged rats after 3 days of high-fat eating

Researchers found that high-fat diets caused significant changes in the brains of aged rats, including inflammatory markers and impaired memory functions, even after only three days. The study suggests that aging and diet-related inflammation may be key factors contributing to age-related memory decline.

Dermatology researchers discover new skin disease using innovative diagnostic platform

Dermatology researchers have identified a novel skin disease in a male patient with erythroderma, a rare and severe inflammation that causes widespread redness and scaling. Targeted treatment with biologic inhibitors reversed symptoms, providing a promising diagnostic tool for precision-medicine.

New study explains how antidepressants can protect against infections and sepsis

Researchers at Salk Institute discover SSRIs like Prozac regulate immune response, preventing sepsis in mice. The findings suggest a potential new use for the popular drug, which could lead to life-saving treatments and enhanced global preparedness for pandemics.

Eavesdropping on organs: Immune system controls blood sugar levels

Researchers discover immune cells regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating glucagon production in the pancreas. This complex neuroimmune-hormonal circuit reveals a new way the body maintains stable glucose levels, especially during periods of low energy.

Ultrasound-directed microbubbles could boost immune response against tumours, new Concordia research suggests

Concordia researchers propose a novel method using ultrasound-guided microbubbles to stimulate critical cytokine secretion in T cells, potentially re-activating them and increasing the release of proteins needed to fight cancer. The approach could complement existing treatments and improve outcomes.

Staphylococcus aureus thwarts vaccines by turning on a protein that halts immune response

UC San Diego researchers identified the key reason for vaccine failures against Staphylococcus aureus: overabundance of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in B cells and helper T cells. Blocking IL-10 restores vaccine efficacy, suggesting a potential solution to combat this deadly bacterium.

Shaking sensor continuously monitors inflammation

A new implantable device, inspired by a tree branch, uses DNA sensors to continuously monitor inflammation biomarkers in the body. The device accurately measures protein biomarkers of inflammation in diabetic rats and has potential applications for managing acute and chronic conditions.

Fine particulate air pollution may play a role in adverse birth outcomes

A new study finds that fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) exposure is associated with altered immune responses and increased inflammation in pregnant women, leading to adverse birth outcomes. The study highlights the importance of minimizing air pollution exposure in pregnant women to protect maternal and fetal health.

New insights reveal how house dust mites trigger allergic asthma by activating the immune system

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a molecular pathway involving protein BLIMP1 that generates Th2 cells in response to inhaled house dust mite, driving allergic asthma. The study also found signaling molecules IL2 and IL10 are required for BLIMP1 expression, offering new therapeutic options.

Zinc deficiency promotes Acinetobacter lung infection: study

A new study found that zinc deficiency promotes lung infection by Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria, which is a leading cause of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Blocking IL-13 prevented infection-associated death in an animal model, suggesting anti-IL-13 antibodies may protect against bacterial pneumonia in patients with zinc deficiency.

Rice bioengineers shed light on dosing challenges for cancer immunotherapy

Rice bioengineers create a mathematical model that challenges long-held assumptions about IL-12's behavior in the body, suggesting repeated doses cause immune cells to hoard IL-12 before it reaches the bloodstream. The findings have significant implications for IL-12 therapy design and may lead to more effective dosing regimens.

Polymeric cloak stabilizes cytokine complex to generate tumor-targeted nanosuperagonist

A new method to construct protein complex-based therapeutics has been discovered using a polymer cloak, which stabilizes the delivery of protein complexes and enables tumor-targeted immunomodulation. The study presents an IL-15 nanosuperagonist with enhanced efficacy and specificity, promising a safer therapy for cancer treatment.

Unexpected immune response may hold key to long-term cancer remission

A new study published in Nature has found that the type 2 immune response is positively correlated with long-term cancer remission, contradicting previous theories that it promotes tumor growth. The research used samples from pioneering clinical trials and revealed a statistically significant correlation between type 2 immune factors a...

​​​​​​​NIH awards $2.8M to Rice, Baylor College of Medicine for research on acute respiratory distress syndrome

Researchers at Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine are developing a new cell therapy platform to suppress inflammation and lung damage in ARDS patients. The platform uses engineered retinal pigment epithelial cells to locally produce anti-inflammatory agents, promising improved patient outcomes.

Dissolvable microneedle patch enables local delivery of immunomodulatory microparticles containing bifunctional molecules for periodontal tissue regeneration

Researchers developed a dissolvable microneedle patch to deliver immunomodulatory microparticles containing bifunctional molecules, such as azithromycin, to treat periodontitis. The patch demonstrated therapeutic outcomes by suppressing bacterial growth and modulating immune responses in both in vitro and in vivo studies.

Advancing towards a novel, highly accurate method for cervical cancer screening

A research team has identified novel biomarkers in cervical mucus samples that show high diagnostic power for detecting cervical cancer. The findings suggest that analyzing local expression levels may offer a superior diagnostic strategy, potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures.

Bacteria and keloids

Research found higher bacterial concentrations in keloid tissue, especially in deep layers, leading to increased inflammation and fibroblast production. Antibiotics and phage treatments may help reduce bacteria and improve treatment outcomes for keloids.

SARS-CoV-2 infections have a long-term impact on the immune system

A recent study published in Allergy found that COVID-19 leads to long-term changes in the immune system, even in mild cases. The research team identified significant reductions in immune cells and alterations in cytokine levels, suggesting an impaired immune response to new challenges.

Study reveals new factor associated with the risk of severe COVID-19 in people with obesity

Researchers found that high blood levels of saturated fatty acids, particularly palmitate, cause pre-activation of innate immune cells in obese non-diabetics. This leads to elevated inflammatory molecules when infected with SARS-CoV-2, increasing the risk of severe COVID-19.

Exploring the antidepressant effects of oleacein: A rare compound in olives

A recent study found that oleacein increases BDNF expression in human neuronal cells and reduces depressive behavior in mouse models. Gene expression analysis reveals the activation of cell cycle and neurogenesis processes, as well as a decrease in inflammatory response.

3D thymic-like hydrogels for T-cell differentiation

A new study published in GEN Biotechnology describes the establishment of a 3D hydrogel-based platform for producing functional T-cells from hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. The platform was engineered with key thymic components to direct T-cell development, producing cytokine-producing T-cells.

Intermittent fasting shows promise in improving gut health, weight management

A new study highlights the benefits of intermittent fasting and protein-pacing on gut health, weight loss, and metabolic responses. Participants showed improved diversity of the gut microbiota, decreased symptoms of gastrointestinal problems, and increased beneficial microbes linked to a lean body type.

COVID-19 research: New details about potentially deadly inflammation revealed in USC study

A USC study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 causes a stage of mild symptoms followed by severe inflammation in some patients. The virus exploits two different pathways to interact with immune cells, one leading to inflammation and the other preventing it.

The Wim Hof method may reduce inflammation, per systematic review

The Wim Hof method has been found to increase epinephrine levels and decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines, indicating a potential anti-inflammatory response. However, its impact on exercise performance is less clear, with some studies showing benefits and others finding no significant difference.

Key protein linked to immune disorders

Researchers found that STAP-1 plays a crucial role in activating T cells, which are white blood cells critical to defending against infections and maintaining overall health. The study suggests that STAP-1 may be involved in the development of immune disorders such as multiple sclerosis and asthma.

Schisanhenol: A potential drug for the treatment of cytokine storm

This study investigates Schisanhenol's potential to treat cytokine storm by inhibiting inflammatory responses and alleviating acute lung injury. Network pharmacology analysis reveals multiple mechanisms of action.

Gut microbiome changes during pregnancy may influence immune system response

A new study found that changes in the mother's gut microbiome during pregnancy may influence the immune system's response. The research showed altered levels of cytokines and metabolites, which could lead to a suppressed immune system during pregnancy.

New cell therapy shows promise with ARDS patients

A new type of cell therapy has shown promising results in improving survival rates and reducing pneumonia among critically ill ARDS patients recovering from severe Covid-19. The invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell therapy, known as agenT-797, triggered an anti-inflammatory response and activated anti-viral immunity.

Evolution of the human immune system in the post-Omicron era

Research reveals memory T cells formed after Omicron breakthrough infection provide enhanced immunity against future variants. The study suggests the immune system adapts to combat emerging strains, leading to higher chances of inducing memory T cell defenses.

A new targeted treatment calms the cytokine storm

Researchers from Osaka University have discovered a novel treatment strategy for cytokine storm, a serious inflammatory syndrome triggered by an infection or severe burn. The new approach involves blocking IL-6 receptor signaling with a short-term antibody, minimizing treatment side effects and preventing vascular damage.

UChicago Immunoengineering researchers decode the “cytokine storm” in sepsis

Researchers at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have made a breakthrough in understanding the

Research makes important discovery about pulmonary sequelae after COVID-19 infection

Researchers identified key factors contributing to long-term lung dysfunction in COVID-19 patients, including hypoxia, systemic inflammation and metabolic syndrome. The study highlights the importance of multidisciplinary treatment approaches for individuals with LONG-COVID.

New reasons eating less fat should be one of your resolutions

A new study by University of California Riverside researchers found that high-fat diets affect not only obesity and colon cancer but also the immune system, brain function, and potentially COVID-19 risk. The study, which analyzed genetic changes in mice fed different types of fat, showed that polyunsaturated fatty acids in soybean oil ...

Immune cells shape lung before birth and provide new avenues for treating respiratory diseases

Researchers have discovered that immune cells play a crucial role in directing the growth of human lung tissue during development, revolutionizing our understanding of early lung development. The findings also suggest that early immune disturbances could manifest as pediatric lung disease.

What human diseases can teach us about the immune system

Researchers using cancer as a model system are uncovering basic principles of immune cell communication and spatial dynamics. Understanding these principles can lead to new treatments for various diseases, including viral infections and cancer.

New nanoparticles found to be effective for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers developed a ceria nanoparticle-immobilized mesenchymal stem cell nanovesicle hybrid system to treat rheumatoid arthritis. This approach provides both immediate pain relief through ROS scavenging and long-term immune tolerance by delivering immunomodulatory cytokines.

Could the nerve cells that scratch be the solution for itch?

Researchers at UCSF found a feedback loop between immune protein IL-31 and nerve cells, which dials back nearby inflammation and promotes skin healing. This discovery could lead to new treatments for conditions like eczema, allergies, and asthma by targeting the nervous system's role in regulating the immune response.

Revolutionizing lymphedema care: new lymphedema-on-chip platform holds promise

Researchers created a tiny 3D cell culture model that mimics the function of lymphatic vessels to explore how inflammatory substances affect the lymphatic system. They found that certain cytokines cause cells to tighten their junctions, leading to reduced fluid drainage and swelling. Inhibiting a protein called ROCK2 reversed lymphedem...

Trigonelline derived from coffee improves cognitive functions

A recent study published in Geroscience found that trigonelline, a plant alkaloid in coffee, significantly improved spatial learning and memory performance in senescence-accelerated mice. The researchers also identified the underlying molecular mechanisms, including reduced neuroinflammation and increased neurotransmitter release.