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T-cell responses may help predict protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals with and without cancer

New study reveals that T-cell responses against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can predict protection against infection. In healthy individuals, T cells with a specific cytokine profile offered immunity against COVID-19. In contrast, cancer patients showed lower T-cell responses and increased susceptibility to infection.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Discovery·DateFeb 18, 2022

Boosting the immune defense: Interleukin-2 promotes fate decisions in CD8 T cells for long- or short-term immune protection

Researchers found that interleukin-2 promotes the development of two subsets of CD8 T cells, one producing IL-2 and the other not, with distinct fates. The IL-2-producing cells develop into immune memory cells with long-term protection, while the non-IL-2-producing cells gain effector traits but lose memory formation.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2022

Immune system can detect disease during pregnancy

Researchers have discovered a pattern of immune activity in normal pregnancies that can detect abnormalities and predict complications. The study found elevated immune activation in the first three months, followed by a calmer phase, and higher activity in the last three months, especially when childbirth is imminent.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 28, 2021

Research published in AACR journal and presented at ASH identifies potential approach to mitigate CAR T-cell therapy toxicity

A novel approach may reduce the serious adverse effect of cytokine release syndrome associated with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy. Supressing interferon gamma (IFNγ) appears to prevent activation of macrophages and other immune cells that drive the syndrome without impacting CAR T-cell efficacy.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalBlood Cancer Discovery·DateDec 15, 2021

Cord blood cell transplantation and curcumin administration tested as therapy of Tay-Sachs disease

A new study investigates the effects of cord blood cell transplantation and curcumin administration on Tay-Sachs disease. The results show an increase in enzyme production and a decrease in inflammation after transplantation, as well as improved symptoms and reduced GM2 ganglioside levels when combined with curcumin.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalLife·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Differences in T cells’ functional state determine resistance to cancer therapy

Researchers found that certain T cells stop working before entering the tumor due to changes in gene expression, making ICB therapies less effective. Combining ICB with other forms of immunotherapy targeting different aspects of T cell function may improve response rates for non-small cell lung cancer patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology Department of Biology·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2021

How highly processed foods harm memory in the aging brain

A study in rats found that a diet of highly processed foods led to inflammation and behavioral signs of memory loss in the brain. Supplementing with omega-3 fatty acid DHA prevented these effects almost entirely. The study suggests that limiting processed foods and increasing DHA consumption may help prevent rapid memory decline in old...

SourceOhio State University·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·DateOct 14, 2021

New cell type in human skin discovered to contribute to inflammatory skin diseases like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis

Researchers identified a new cell type in human skin contributing to AD and psoriasis, highlighting potential therapeutic targets. The study revealed CD14+ type 3 dendritic cells co-producing IL1B and IL23A, essential for PSO pathogenesis.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2021

Why do people with diabetes develop severe COVID-19?

A study from Michigan Medicine found that people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop a cytokine storm during coronavirus infection due to the enzyme SETDB2. Administering interferon beta increased SETDB2 and decreased inflammatory cytokines in diabetic mice, offering potential therapy for severe COVID-19.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Immune system 'clock' predicts illness and mortality

The study found that a single-number quantitative measure, the inflammatory-age score, tracks well with a person's immunological response and the likelihood of incurring aging-related diseases. Blood levels of CXCL9, a cytokine secreted by certain immune cells, contribute more powerfully than any other clock component to the inflammato...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Aging·DateJul 12, 2021

New strategy blocks chronic lung disease in mice

Researchers at WashU Medicine have found a new way to block chronic lung diseases such as asthma and COPD by targeting the packaging of inflammatory cytokines in exosomes. By blocking the release of these packaged cytokines, they can prevent damage to the lungs and slow disease progression in mice.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 23, 2021

New therapy improves treatment for multiple sclerosis

Researchers at the University of Chicago have designed a new therapy for multiple sclerosis by fusing a cytokine to a blood protein. This combination prevented destructive immune cells from infiltrating the central nervous system and decreased MS development, leading to fewer symptoms and disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 12, 2020

Direct control of dendritic cells for tracking and immune modulation

Dendritic cells can be labeled using an engineered sugar molecule that is taken up by the cells and displayed on their surfaces, allowing them to track DCs in vivo. The researchers also developed a system to modulate the behavior of DCs via click chemistry, which has great promise for treating cancer and other diseases.

Study finds differences in energy use by immune cells in ME/CFS

Researchers discovered that specific immune T cells from people with ME/CFS exhibit disruptions in energy production, suggesting changes in the immune system. The study found decreased levels of glycolysis and mitochondrial function in affected cells, potentially providing clues to understanding the mechanisms underlying ME/CFS.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 12, 2019