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UMass Amherst researchers identify enzyme key to training cells to fight autoimmune disorders

Researchers at UMass Amherst have identified PRMT5 as a key regulator of suppressive activity in immune cells, which can be trained to correct overzealous immune responses. This discovery may lay the foundation for drug-free, side-effect-free treatments for patients with autoimmune disorders such as aplastic anemia.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateFeb 27, 2024

The immune system’s moonlighters

Researchers have found a new potential therapeutic target for autoimmune diseases such as lupus and multiple sclerosis by identifying an overlooked sequence in the IκBζ protein. This sequence, known as the OCA peptide, can activate key proteins in immune cells and may help reeling in immune cells gone haywire.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 20, 2024

Pusan National University researchers reveal how diabetes weakens gum defense

Researchers from Pusan National University discovered a link between diabetes and periodontitis, showing pro-inflammatory cytokines rise in classical monocytes. The study highlights the systemic impact of these conditions on immune regulation and suggests a potential therapeutic target to reduce diabetes risk.

SourcePusan National University·JournalClinical and Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

The analysis of biological networks allows understanding the complexity of multiple sclerosis

A new computational biology tool has analyzed the complex biological networks of multiple sclerosis patients, revealing relationships between genes, proteins, cells, brain function, and behavior. The study identified correlations between protein MK03 and immune system cell counts, retinal nerve fiber thickness, and gait test results.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 8, 2024

Autoimmune disease and pregnancy

A study published in Lancet eClinical Health found pregnancy outcomes for pregnant individuals with autoimmune disease vary greatly depending on the specific condition and individual factors. Research highlights the importance of considering comorbidities when discussing autoimmune disease and pregnancy.

SourceInstitute for Systems Biology·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 31, 2024

CD4+ T cell patterns linked to autoimmune disorders

A study published in Cell Genomics reveals that specific changes in CD4+ T cell categories and gene programs are associated with autoimmune diseases, including distinct patterns related to aging and sex. The findings provide a comprehensive catalog of CD4+ T cell changes linked to 20 different autoimmune diseases.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCell Genomics·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Hope for autoimmune skin disorder sufferers with new immunotherapy strategy

Researchers discovered distinct mechanisms controlling different types of immune cells and found a way to selectively eliminate 'problematic' cells driving autoimmune disorders. This breakthrough offers precise targets for potential treatment strategies, potentially revolutionizing the way we treat skin conditions.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

Scientists map the antigenic landscape

Researchers have successfully mapped the entire HLA class II landscape, predicting how pathogens are displayed on cell surfaces. The mapping reveals that multiple HLA variants play essential roles in autoimmune disorders and organ rejection, highlighting their potential for developing immunotherapy treatments.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 24, 2023

New research unveils intricate mechanism behind immune system’s ability to differentiate between self and non-self antigens

A groundbreaking study sheds light on the intricate mechanism behind the immune system's ability to differentiate between self and non-self antigens. Continuous activation of self-reactive T cells is essential for maintaining equilibrium and self-tolerance through regulatory T cells.

Turns out lowly thymus may be saving your life

A new Harvard-led research suggests that the thymus, often considered expendable in adults, actually plays a crucial role in maintaining adult immune health and preventing cancer. The study found that patients who had their thymus removed had a nearly threefold higher risk of death from various causes, including cancer.

SourceHarvard University Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 3, 2023

Three doses of COVID-19 vaccine leads to catch-up antibody responses among the particularly vulnerable

A study from the University of Gothenburg found that even vulnerable people with compromised immune systems achieved good antibody levels after three doses of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. This is particularly significant for those at risk of severe Covid-19, as they showed catch-up antibody responses and high levels of hybrid immunity.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalInfectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateAug 1, 2023

Blocking immune system 'messenger' may treat severe asthma

Researchers found that blocking histamine-releasing factor (HRF) and immunoglobulin E (IgE) interactions may provide relief for patients with severe asthma. The study, published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, suggests two potential therapies, including HRF-2CA and a therapeutic antibody called SPF7-1.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

Journal of Clinical Immunology publishes Octapharma USA research on cutaquig® evaluating PI treatment options

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology suggests that cutaquig infusions at higher infusion rates and volumes are well-tolerated and effective, with reduced infusion time, fewer injection sites, and improved compliance. The study results will be presented at the Clinical Immunology Society 2023 Annual Meeting.

SourceYankee Public Relations·JournalJournal of Clinical Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 18, 2023

A herbal compound to fight autoimmunity

A team from Osaka University discovered that celastrol blocks the progression of rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting a protein complex that promotes autoimmune responses. The researchers found that celestrol binds to COMMD3 covalently, preventing the formation of the COMMD3/8 complex and impairing antibody production.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2023

A common metabolite may help treat autoimmune diseases

Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered itaconate's modulatory effect on T helper and T regulatory cells, potentially leading to new treatments for autoimmune diseases. The study found that itaconate inhibits Th17 cell differentiation and promotes Treg cell development, reducing disease symptoms in mice models.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2023

New study: abatacept therapy offers promising results treating juvenile dermatomyositis

A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology reports significant improvements in disease activity for patients with refractory juvenile dermatomyositis treated with abatacept therapy. The randomized controlled trial demonstrates the potential of abatacept as a treatment option for this rare and debilitating condition.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 8, 2023

Putting out “the fire in the brain”

Researchers have developed a potential treatment for autoimmune encephalitis by creating an NMDA receptor fusion construct that neutralizes pathogenic antibodies. This innovative approach has shown promise in reducing signal transmission to neurons and may lead to improved treatment options for patients with this rare and serious disease.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalBrain·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2023