Autoimmune Disorders
Articles tagged with Autoimmune Disorders
New study finds higher dementia risk in insulin-requiring diabetes
From immunosuppression to active tolerance: the evolving paradigm of regulatory T cell therapy in organ transplantation
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.
Risk of celiac disease is not a reason to avoid antibiotics
A nationwide Swedish study of 27,789 individuals with confirmed celiac disease found no link between antibiotic use and increased risk of developing the autoimmune disorder. The study also revealed a higher proportion of prior antibiotics used among those with normal mucosa, suggesting other factors may contribute to its development.
Taming overactive immune systems with antibodies: hope for autoimmune diseases
A multi-institutional team has discovered a novel immune regulatory mechanism mediated by antibodies that selectively shut down overactive immune responses. The 'immune-induced TCR-like antibody' (iTab) can reduce disease severity and delay its onset in a mouse model of autoimmune disease.
Hidden mutations in immune cells linked to autoimmune disease
Research reveals a previously hidden role for somatic mutations — DNA changes acquired throughout life — in diseases beyond cancer. Mutations in key genes were found to contribute to thyroid autoimmunity, potentially providing a path towards precision medicine.
Discovery of Addison's disease gene in dogs could help humans, too
Scientists have identified a gene variant in dogs associated with Addison's disease and multiple autoimmune syndrome. The RESF1 gene, also found in humans, could hold key insights for understanding the human form of the condition.
New BSC study reveals, for the first time, that the female immune system changes much more than that of men with age
A new study by the Barcelona Supercomputing Center reveals that women's immune systems undergo more pronounced changes with age, leading to a greater susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. In contrast, men experience less extensive immune system changes, but are at higher risk for certain blood cancers.
CAR-T therapy drives remission in patient with three autoimmune diseases
Scientists used CAR-T cell therapy to treat a patient with severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia, immune thrombocytopenia, and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. The treatment achieved lasting remission without additional treatment for over a year.
Scientists discover how multiple sclerosis kills neurons
A team of researchers discovered that inflammation in multiple sclerosis causes DNA damage to neurons essential for higher thinking and cognition. This finding provides a new direction for the field and highlights the importance of protecting grey matter neurons from damage.
Decoding the chemical messengers: Gut microbes talk to the whole body through metabolites
Research systematically maps how bacterial metabolites influence disease progression and immune cell functions, highlighting their dual effects on the body. The review emphasizes the need for holistic regulation of metabolite profiles to achieve precision interventions.
New biomarker for immunoglobulin a nephropathy identified
Researchers have discovered a new biomarker for immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy, which is an autoimmune disease that can lead to kidney failure. Complement pathway proteins, including CFHR1, were found to be overexpressed in patients with IgA nephropathy, suggesting a potential treatment target and diagnostic marker.
Implantable islet cells could control diabetes without insulin injections
MIT researchers create an implantable device containing insulin-producing cells that survive in the body for at least 90 days, producing enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. The device's improved oxygen generator and electronics enable longer cell lifespan and increased insulin production.
Single-cell study reveals how immune memory cells remember threats
A single-cell study reveals how immune memory cells are molecularly programmed to respond faster when encountering a familiar threat. The study found that memory CD4⁺ T cells have their DNA primed to activate key defense genes within hours, providing a head start in responding to known pathogens.
Immune response to cancer may cause brain disease
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that antibodies produced in response to cancer can attack the brain, causing autoimmune diseases like lupus and multiple sclerosis. The study suggests that these antibodies may be harnessed to develop new treatments for triple-negative breast cancer.
Autoantibodies implicated as drivers of long COVID in new study
A new study suggests that autoantibodies from Long COVID patients can induce persistent pain-like symptoms in mice, providing evidence for a potential causal role of autoantibodies in the condition. The research also highlights distinct biological subgroups and offers hope for targeted antibody-based therapies.
B-type natriuretic peptide as a predictor of kidney disease progression in diabetes
A recent study found that B-type natriuretic peptide is independently associated with chronic kidney disease progression in individuals with diabetes. Combining BNP with urinary markers such as UACR improves risk prediction, highlighting its potential role in early detection and management of kidney disease.
Multiple sclerosis doubles in prevalence while survival rates improve
Multiple sclerosis (MS) has seen a significant increase in prevalence, with standardised prevalence doubling from 107 per 100,000 people in 2000 to 232 per 100,000 in 2020. The study also found that survival rates improved due to advances in treatments and care, but inequalities persist, particularly in deprived areas.
John Dystel Prize for Multiple Sclerosis Research awarded to Dr. Ludwig Kappos for his transformative contributions to MS research
Dr. Ludwig Kappos has made enormous contributions to MS research, advancing clinical trial conduct and outcome measures, and leading international collaborations. He will formally receive the award at the American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting in Chicago on April 19, 2026.
Tsinghua University team discovers skin's hidden role in amplifying immune responses, paving way for novel vaccine adjuvants
Researchers reveal that skin-cell calcium channel TRPV3 is activated by plant-derived fragrant molecules, leading to enhanced immune responses and potential new vaccine adjuvants. The study provides a novel understanding of immune crosstalk and offers a safer approach to enhancing vaccine efficacy.
100,000 participants screened for early-stage type 1 diabetes in the EDENT1FI project
EDENT1FI has screened 100,000 children across Europe for early-stage type 1 diabetes, using standardized screening programs and harmonized data collection. The initiative aims to empower families to manage life with type 1 diabetes effectively and support children and adolescents with early-stage detection.
Why does the body deem some foods safe and others unsafe?
Researchers have identified three new proteins, called epitopes, that help the body determine 'safe' foods, aiding in food tolerance and allergy understanding. The epitopes were found in seed proteins from corn, wheat, and soybean, and interact with regulatory T cells to inform tolerance-or-rejection decisions.
Almost 1-in-3 American adolescents has diabetes or prediabetes, with waist-to-height ratio the strongest independent predictor of prediabetes/diabetes, reveals survey of 1,998 adolescents (10-19 years) from 2021-2023
A survey of 1,998 US adolescents aged 10-19 found nearly 1 in 3 have diabetes or prediabetes. Waist-to-height ratio emerged as the strongest independent predictor of these conditions.
Syzygium jambolanum extracts show promising protective effects in diabetes management
Syzygium jambolanum extracts demonstrate significant protective and antidiabetic effects, improving glycaemic control and metabolic health. The study reveals a systemic protective effect beyond glucose lowering alone.
Macrophage immune cells need constant reminders to retain memories of prior infections
Researchers found that macrophages retain memories of previous infections due to persistent signaling molecules left behind, which can be reversed by blocking cytokine signaling pathways. This discovery suggests new ways to reduce the activity of misprogrammed macrophages contributing to autoimmune diseases.
A gel for wounds that won’t heal
Researchers developed an oxygen-delivering gel to heal chronic wounds that fail to heal for more than a month. The gel conforms to the wound's shape and provides continuous oxygen levels, helping transform nonhealing wounds into normal injuries.
Researchers visualize the dynamics of myelin swellings
Myelin swellings are precursor lesions in MS, but research reveals they have a dynamic character, growing, shrinking and recovering. The underlying nerve fibre activity plays a key role in their formation.
Breakthrough lupus model unveils Keratinocyte's pivotal role in triggering disease progression
Researchers developed a novel mouse model that accurately mirrors the progression and dynamic shift between disease states of lupus. The model demonstrates a direct link between skin defects and systemic disease, with dynamic features including remission and relapse cycles.
Using gene expression in blood to personalize care for APS
Researchers used AI to analyze RNA sequences from patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), uncovering four distinct molecular patterns or 'endotypes' that drive disease. These patterns suggest different immune system behaviors and may require tailored treatments, offering a more personalized approach to APS care.
New framework for autoimmune skin diseases proposes "multiple hits" over time
A new review introduces a chronological and probabilistic model to explain the recurrence of autoimmune skin diseases like vitiligo. The model proposes that full disease manifestation is the outcome of genetic susceptibility and a series of environmental or internal biological hits.
New study: Immune cells linked to Epstein-Barr virus may play a role in MS
Researchers found that certain types of CD8+ killer T cells are more abundant in people with MS and target the EBV virus, indicating the virus may trigger an immune response leading to progressive neurological damage. The study suggests that interfering with EBV could have a significant impact on other autoimmune diseases.
Study identifies alternate path for inflammation that could improve RA treatment
Researchers discovered a lesser-known inflammatory signal triggered by proteins TWEAK and Fn14, which amplify inflammation when combined with TNF. Blocking this 'backdoor' pathway could improve RA treatment for up to 80% of patients.
Inflammation and autoimmune-like dysfunction may play a role in heart failure
A recent study from Penn State College of Medicine researchers found that helper T cells, typically involved in fighting infections, become overly activated in failing human hearts, causing damage. The activation of these T cells highlights the impact of inflammation and immune dysfunction in heart failure.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society awards Dr. Manuel A. Friese the 2025 Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS Research
Dr. Manuel A. Friese has been recognized for his groundbreaking work studying the interactions between inflammation and nerve cell death, which drives disease progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). His research aims to identify new therapeutic targets and bring the field closer to stopping disease progression.
Cells that are not our own may unlock secrets about our health
Researchers are studying microchimeric cells that can play complex roles in a person's body, including healing wounds and regulating the immune system. However, more research is needed to understand their role in health outcomes, particularly pregnancy complications and autoimmune diseases.
Progenitor cells in the brain constantly attempt to produce new myelin-producing brain cells
New study finds that progenitor cells in the brain continuously produce new myelin-producing oligodendrocytes, despite being inefficient. This process suggests that treatments harnessing their developmental aspects may increase rapid myelin repair for demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis.
Pioneer's definitive review: Taniguchi team maps critical roles of IRF in immunity and disease
The review details the dual role of interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) in regulating essential antiviral responses while mitigating excessive inflammation. IRF proteins have distinct roles, with some driving interferon production and others acting as fine-tuners or negative regulators.
Itaconate modifications: mechanisms and applications
Researchers summarize itaconate biology highlighting its chemical reactivity and therapeutic potential in treating infectious diseases, sepsis, autoimmunity, neurodegenerative disorders. Itaconate exerts biological effects through post-translational modifications, altering protein activity and signaling pathways
Scientists identify target to treat devastating brain disease
Researchers at OHSU have identified specific sites on the NMDA receptor that could potentially reverse the progression of the disease if blocked, offering new hope for treatment and early detection. The discovery was made using near-atomic imaging and raises the potential for a blood test to detect the condition.
Pregnancy-related high blood pressure varied among Asian, Pacific Islander subgroups
Research highlights racial-ethnic differences in pregnancy-related high blood pressure risk, with Pacific Islanders and Filipinos more likely to develop a hypertensive disorder. Early identification and treatment can help prevent serious complications for both pregnant individuals and their infants.
Infant gut bacteria may be the key to preventing asthma and allergies
Researchers have identified a previously unknown mechanism that can reduce the risk of allergies and asthma in children. Certain bifidobacteria produce a substance called 4-hydroxyphenyl lactate (4-OH-PLA), which dampens immune responses to allergens, reducing the production of IgE antibodies.
“Recipe book” for reprogramming immune cells
Researchers have created a library of over 400 immune-related factors to reprogram rare immune cell populations. This technique allows for the systematic discovery of 'recipes' for specific immune cells, offering hope for unresponsive patients and advancing immunotherapy.
When a virus releases the immune brake: New evidence on the onset of multiple sclerosis
Researchers identify a concrete biological mechanism that triggers MS, focusing on B cells and Epstein-Barr virus. This understanding may help guide future strategies to prevent or treat MS.
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.
New mechanism links Epstein-Barr virus to MS
A new study from Karolinska Institutet reveals the Epstein-Barr virus can damage the brain and contribute to multiple sclerosis through molecular mimicry. The researchers found that cross-reactive T cells are significantly more common in people with MS, and targeting these cells may lead to new treatments.
A fatal mix-up: How certain gut bacteria drive multiple sclerosis
Researchers have discovered that certain gut bacteria with similar structures to the protective layer of nerves can misdirect the immune system and cause it to attack its own nervous system. This mechanism accelerates the progression of multiple sclerosis.
Missing piece of myelin disturbs the brain’s rhythm
Researchers discovered that a missing piece of myelin in nerve cells slows signal transmission to the thalamus, disrupting communication loops and cognitive tasks. This finding sheds light on symptoms associated with grey matter lesions in MS.
Study proves the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-arthritic actions of a plant used in folk medicine
Researchers from Brazil confirm the safety and efficacy of Alternanthera littoralis (Joseph's Coat) in reducing inflammation and modulating inflammatory mediators. The study's findings support the plant's medicinal potential and suggest a safety profile at therapeutic doses.
Stanford Medicine-led study identifies immune switch critical to autoimmunity, cancer
A Stanford Medicine-led study reveals that a signaling pathway controls the immune response, allowing researchers to potentially treat various diseases. The research focuses on peripheral immune tolerance, which prevents inappropriate attacks on healthy tissue.
Improving treatment for an autoimmune bleeding condition
A Phase III clinical trial found that over half of patients who received ianalumab for primary ITP maintained safe platelet counts without serious bleeding episodes for at least one year. The study suggests a new treatment option with the potential to improve long-term quality of life for patients.
Possible therapeutic approach to treat diabetic nerve damage discovered
Researchers at University of Cologne identify p35-mediated CDK5 hyperactivity as a central mechanism limiting nerve regeneration in diabetes. Targeted interventions using peptides restore nerve fiber growth, leading to significant motor and sensory improvements.
The future of type 1 diabetes: Can stem cells provide a cure?
Researchers explore innovative avenues for regenerating functional β-cells using stem cells and pancreatic progenitor cells. The dual approach of activating endogenous progenitors and transplanting externally differentiated cells represents a powerful, scalable strategy for T1D management.
USC study suggests type 1 diabetes may significantly raise bladder cancer risk
Researchers found a significant link between type 1 diabetes and an increased risk of bladder cancer, with people being 4.29 times more likely to develop the disease. The new analysis controlled for tobacco smoking, a factor that obscured the heightened risk in earlier studies.
New antibodies developed that can inhibit inflammation in autoimmune diseases
Two first-in-class antibodies, C01 and C04, have been developed to inhibit inflammation in autoimmune diseases by blocking the high-affinity IgG receptor FcγRI. The antibodies were discovered using a unique immunization method and exhibit higher affinity for FcγRI than human IgG.
UCI Health clinical trial tests promising CAR T-cell therapy for lupus
A clinical trial at UCI Health has tested a new CAR T-cell therapy for lupus patients. The treatment showed significant reversal of symptoms in the first trial participant, offering hope for future treatments.
Researchers reveal intricate control system for key immune gene
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes and UCSF have identified the genetic switches that regulate FOXP3 levels in human and mouse cells. In humans, multiple enhancers work together to keep FOXP3 active, while a repressor keeps it off in conventional T cells. This discovery has important implications for developing immune therapies.
Stanford Medicine scientists tie lupus to a virus nearly all of us carry
Researchers found that the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is directly responsible for triggering lupus, a chronic autoimmune condition. Most Americans carry EBV, which resides silently inside their bodies and can activate autoreactive B cells to attack healthy tissues.
UTA alum’s research offers hope for new treatments
Alec Whited's published study reveals a previously unknown cellular pathway that enhances waste removal, potentially treating autoimmune diseases and improving wound healing. The research, coauthored with a UTA doctoral student, was recently published in Genetics, a prestigious journal.
Effectiveness of anti-clotting meds after stent placement varied in people with diabetes
Researchers found that prasugrel may offer an advantage over ticagrelor for individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and complex coronary disease. This is because the two medications are not interchangeable, and treatment with prasugrel may provide better benefits in preventing blood clots and adverse cardiac events.