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Immune system is key ally in cyberwar against cancer

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new two-step strategy for weakening cancer by harnessing the power of the immune system. The study found that alternating cycles of radiation or chemotherapy with immune-boosting treatments can alter the balance between cancer and the immune system, ultimately bringing the cancer to a wea...

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2014

Communication without detours

Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered a previously unknown nerve cell shape that allows signals to be transmitted directly from dendrites to axons, bypassing the cell body. This unique structure facilitates faster and more efficient communication between neurons.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNeuron·DateSep 22, 2014

Cutting edge methods reveal what makes Purkinje neurons unique

Researchers discovered a comprehensive catalogue of proteins manufactured in specific parts of Purkinje neurons using cutting-edge methods TRAP and CAGEscan. This finding holds key to understanding molecular events and potential insights into diseases associated with Purkinje cells.

SourceRIKEN·JournalGenome Research·DateJun 5, 2014

Deficient protein GM-CSF production found to impair gut's immune tolerance

A Mount Sinai study reveals that GM-CSF protein production is critical for maintaining immune tolerance in the gut, and its deficiency may lead to increased susceptibility to inflammatory bowel diseases. The research suggests that targeting the GM-CSF axis could be a promising strategy for developing effective treatments for IBD.

Experiments show hypothesis of microtubule steering accurate

Researchers used laboratory experiments to test a model of microtubule steering, finding that kinesin motors can redirect microtubule ends into branches using crowd-sourced guidance from protein EB1. The study suggests this mechanism is a general strategy for organizing and maintaining proper microtubule polarity in cells.

SourcePenn State·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 23, 2014

A new pathway for neuron repair is discovered

Scientists have found a way to regrow dendrites, the branch-like structures of neurons that receive information from the brain, independently of axon regeneration. This discovery has significant implications for treating conditions like stroke, where damaged dendrites can only be repaired if blood loss is brief.

SourcePenn State·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 9, 2014

How neurons get wired

Researchers found that embryonic nerve cells use two versions of a signaling molecule to determine which end is the axon and which is the dendrite. This discovery could help improve therapies for spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2013

Putting the brakes on inflammation

A team of researchers has discovered a previously unknown mechanism that prevents the immune system from going into overdrive, shedding light on autoimmune diseases, allergies and chronic inflammation. The discovery could lead to new therapeutics for disorders caused by faulty immune responses.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalImmunity·DateJul 22, 2013

JCI early table of contents for June 24, 2013

A study finds a link between prenatal ICP and postnatal obesity in offspring, while another investigation reveals genetic changes in preeclampsia and brain inflammation caused by chronic cannabis use. These findings may have implications for understanding and treating metabolic diseases and pregnancy complications.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 24, 2013

Modified immune cells seek and destroy melanoma

Researchers engineered dendritic cells to recognize protein fragments from cancer-specific antigens, eliciting an immune response that led to partial and complete clinical responses in patients with active disease. The study suggests a promising approach for enhancing immune recognition of melanoma cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 24, 2013

Ebola's secret weapon revealed

Scientists at UTMB discovered that Ebola short-circuits the immune system using proteins that shut down cellular signaling related to interferon, preventing dendritic cell maturation and generating an ineffective adaptive immune response. The researchers found that specific regions of two different proteins are crucial for this mechanism.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMay 2, 2013

Immune system molecule with hidden talents

Researchers at Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research discovered that antibodies are essential for dendritic cell maturation, a process critical to the immune response against pathogens. The study highlights the complex interplay between innate and acquired immunity, showing how antibodies facilitate communication between immune cells.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2013

Intestinal immune cells play an unexpected role in immune surveillance of the bloodstream

A team of researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital has discovered that intestinal immune cells collect and process antigens from both the bloodstream and the intestine, inducing the production of T cells that suppress inflammation. This regulatory system is crucial for preventing autoimmune disorders and inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalImmunity·DateDec 13, 2012

How human cells 'hold hands'

A team of University of Iowa researchers found that a lack of gamma-protocadherin cell adhesion molecules in the cerebral cortex disrupts neural circuitry formation. This discovery may help understand causes of human developmental disorders like autism, mental retardation, and schizophrenia.