Immune System

A hidden immune circuit in the uterus revealed: Findings shed light on preeclampsia and early pregnancy failure

A new study reveals that NFAT controls uterine natural killer cells, which guide embryo implantation and placental growth. The findings offer fresh insight into preeclampsia, implantation failure, and inadequate placental blood flow, potentially benefiting all pregnant patients.

Single-cell atlas reveals why rotator cuff injuries heal with damaging scars

Researchers discovered that tendon stem cells and progenitor cells fail to differentiate into mature, functional cells, instead promoting scar buildup. Immune cells, including macrophages, also play a central role in sustaining fibrosis, creating a self-sustaining environment that is difficult to reverse.

Revolutionary single shot helps with healing after a heart attack

A new injection therapy uses self-amplifying RNA to prompt the body's release of the natural heart-protective hormone ANP for several weeks. This approach aims to reduce harmful scarring, preserve healthy heart muscle and improve heart function after a heart attack.

Overcoming ovarian cancer’s resistance to immunotherapy

A new study demonstrates that blocking a signaling protein called FAK helps mobilize an anti-tumor immune response, allowing tumor-fighting cells to approach tumors and shift the behavior of other immune cells to work against them. This approach achieved the best effects on immune cell recruitment, tumor size reduction, and survival ti...

“A spray shield that adheres to transplant organs” reduces the burden on patients taking lifelong immunosuppressants

Researchers developed a spray shield that adheres to transplant organs using mussel-derived adhesive protein, reducing immune rejection and its side effects. This innovation enables targeted delivery of immunosuppressants directly to the transplanted site, increasing success rates in xenograft transplantation.

Microbe exposure may not protect against developing allergic disease

A new Cornell University study reveals that exposure to diverse microbes and allergens as adults may worsen the development of allergic airway inflammation compared to newborns. Researchers found a break point where protection from microbial exposure might wane, depending on life stage and timing.

New NIH grant advances Lupus protein research

A new $1.7 million NIH grant will support Carol Webb's research on the protein ARID3a and its role in lupus development and treatment. The study aims to identify genes controlled by ARID3a, understand how it disrupts the immune system, and test potential treatments.

Painless skin patch offers new way to monitor immune health

Researchers have developed a painless skin patch that samples key immune cells from the skin, offering a new way to monitor immune health. The device detects inflammatory signals and collects immune cells without invasive procedures.

Pancreatic cancer may begin hiding from the immune system earlier than we thought

Researchers found that early precancerous cells in pancreas gather into specific clusters and interact with immune cells, weakening the body's ability to fight them. The study provides fresh insight into how pancreatic cancer may begin taking shape years before it is clinically detected.

Children with sleep apnea face higher risk of flu and COVID-19, new study finds

A new study by Dr. Alex Gileles-Hillel and colleagues found that children with sleep apnea are twice as likely to contract the flu or COVID-19. The researchers suggest prioritizing annual vaccinations for these children to prevent severe respiratory complications.

Existing drug unlocks immunotherapy potential against rare liver cancer

A Cornell University study reveals that an existing FDA-approved drug, AMD3100, can prevent the sequestration of immune T cells from tumors, allowing them to attack cancer cells. The treatment shows promise for fibrolamellar carcinoma, a rare and fatal liver cancer with no cure.

Cancer treatment: Optimization of CAR T-cell therapy

Critical crosstalk between blood vessels and immune system, showing shared pathways in major diseases

The review outlines how vascular-immune crosstalk affects various diseases, revealing novel therapeutic opportunities. It highlights the shared embryonic origin of blood vessel cells and immune cells, as well as coordinated immune cell trafficking mechanisms.

UNC-Chapel Hill researchers reveal how chronic inflammation breaks the immune system’s repair crew

Researchers at UNC-Chapel Hill discovered that chronic inflammation fundamentally alters macrophages, immune cells that drive both inflammation and tissue repair. Chronic inflammation triggers a breakdown in the ability of macrophages to adapt, trapping them in dysfunctional hybrid states.

Study reveals how chills develop and support the body's defense against infection

A recent rat study identified the neural mechanism underlying chills, a cold sensation that supports the body's response to infection. The findings suggest that prostaglandin E₂ boosts cold signals from the lateral parabrachial nucleus to the central nucleus of the amygdala, triggering chills and promoting warmth-seeking behavior.

MSK research highlights, February 4, 2026

Researchers from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center reveal the origins of Thetis cells, which play a crucial role in teaching immune system tolerance. The team used single-nucleus DNA sequencing to shed light on pancreatic cancer evolution and identify genetic changes that occur earlier or later in disease progression.

Yeast cells can be used for rapid testing of cancer immunotherapy

Engineered yeast cells can mimic real cancer cells and be used to test new cancer immunotherapies much faster and cheaper than before. This new technology enables researchers to assess which CAR T variants are most promising much more quickly, leading to safer and more targeted cancer treatments.

UM School of Medicine launches clinical trial of investigative nasal spray medicine to prevent illnesses from respiratory viruses

A new experimental intranasal spray, INNA-051, will be tested in a randomized Phase 2 trial to determine its safety and effectiveness in reducing illness from respiratory viruses. The study aims to enroll 1,100 healthy adults at increased risk of upper respiratory virus infections.

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.

How do nature and nurture shape our immune cells?

Researchers at Salk Institute debut an epigenetic catalog that shows genetic inheritance and life experiences have distinct effects on various types of immune cells, shedding light on individual differences in immune responses and potential new personalized therapeutics.

Scientists find hidden diversity inside common brain parasite

A study by UC Riverside scientists reveals that the cysts of Toxoplasma gondii contain multiple distinct subtypes of parasites, each with different biological roles. This discovery offers new insights into how the parasite causes disease and why it has been difficult to treat.

Discrimination linked to diminished immune system function

Researchers found that people experiencing everyday discrimination have elevated levels of "exhausted" white blood cells, indicating chronic stress may hamper the immune system. This study suggests social experiences like discrimination shape immune health at the cellular level and contribute to biological aging.

More than just gut cohabitants: how gut bacteria control immune responses

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich discovered that gut bacteria can directly deliver proteins into human cells, shaping immune responses. This new mechanism may help explain how changes in gut bacteria contribute to inflammatory diseases like Crohn's disease.

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.

MD Anderson shares latest research breakthroughs

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has made significant advancements in cancer care through its collaborative efforts between clinicians and scientists. These breakthroughs include an immune-targeting vaccine that shows promise in intercepting cancer in patients with Lynch Syndrome, a novel immunotherapy that demonstrate...

Scientists discover natural ‘brake’ that could stop harmful inflammation

Researchers at University College London have uncovered a key mechanism that helps the body switch off inflammation. Tiny fat-derived molecules called epoxy-oxylipins act as natural brakes on the immune system, preventing chronic inflammation linked to arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.

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

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.

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.

Sequestered in immune cells, barium titanate nanoparticles stimulated by ultrasound launch inflammatory response

Boston College researchers used piezoelectric nanoparticles to trigger macrophages, a key part of the body's immune response. The study suggests that this method could be used to activate immune cells specifically at an infection or tumor site, avoiding side effects associated with systemic administration of drugs.

Should younger and older people receive different treatments for the same infection?

Salk Institute scientists found distinct disease courses and tolerance mechanisms in younger and older mice with sepsis, indicating a need for age-tailored therapies. The study suggests that future treatments may focus on controlling infection-generated damage rather than just targeting the pathogen.

Research shows how immune system reacts to pig kidney transplants in living patients

The study found that even with immunosuppressants, innate immunity remains activated, indicating a need for new therapies to prevent organ rejection. Researchers recommend combining therapies targeting innate immunity with advanced genetic engineering in donor pigs.

Victoria’s Secret grant backs cutting-edge ovarian cancer research

Melanie Rutkowski's pioneering research may lead to novel immunotherapy treatments for ovarian cancer by understanding how faulty cellular signaling interacts with the microbiome. The grant aims to enhance immune system's ability to kill cancer cells and improve patient outcomes.

New study shows how the spleen helps the immune system accept a transplant

Researchers identified the spleen as a key control center for transplant tolerance, triggering donor-specific regulatory T cells to calm the immune response. This targeted approach induces controlled, donor-specific state in T cells, preserving body's ability to fight infections while supporting long-term graft acceptance.

Newly discovered gut microbial molecules in infancy may influence the risk of type 1 diabetes

A study of over 300 stool samples found that gut-microbe-derived bile acids may play a role in shaping the immune system during early childhood. The findings suggest an imbalance in how gut microbes co-produce these compounds, which could link to signs of type 1 diabetes.

Night shifts aren’t just tiring, they can be deadly

A new study from Texas A&M University reveals that circadian disruptions change the structure of mammary glands, weaken immune defenses, and fuel aggressive breast cancer. Disabling an immune checkpoint molecule called LILRB4 helps restore the immune system's ability to fight back.

Compulsive behaviours may stem from too much (misguided) self-control

Compulsive behaviours are common across many mental health conditions, where people repeat actions despite negative consequences. New research in rats suggests that triggering inflammation in the striatum may shift behaviour toward more deliberate decision-making, rather than habit.

New study suggests a way to rejuvenate the immune system

Researchers from MIT and Broad Institute develop temporary 'factory' in the liver to generate T-cell-stimulating signals, boosting immune response to vaccination and cancer immunotherapy treatments. Aged mice showed significant increases in T cell population size and function after treatment.

The COVID-19 virus manipulates host cell RNA to shut down the immune system

Researchers discovered that SARS-CoV-2 interacts with infected lung cells' genetic material in an unprecedented way, manipulating RNA to shut down the immune system. The virus uses methylation to destabilize RNA structures, weakening interferon signaling and impairing the immune response.

Breaking the 'unbreakable' barrier: how mismatched bone marrow transplantation is rewiring immune tolerance

Researchers review how haplo-HSCT overcomes HLA barriers to restore immune homeostasis, with up to 30% GVHD rates reduced. Donor immune cells can be re-educated to accept recipients' bodies as 'self', highlighting a process of immune remodeling.

Research Alert: How the Immune System Stalls Weight Loss

Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine discovered that immune cells can slow fat breakdown when exposed to physiological stressors, helping early humans preserve energy stores. This finding provides new insight into the underlying metabolism of obesity and other metabolic disorders.

Hormonal fluctuations affect women’s immunity, but a lack of rigor in studies still prevents a consensus

Researchers found that inadequate characterization of the menstrual cycle in studies contributes to conflicting results. A new study aims to investigate the relationship between hormonal fluctuations and physical exercise, seeking to broaden understanding of women's immunity.

MD Anderson shares latest research breakthroughs

Researchers at MD Anderson have made significant discoveries in the treatment of rare bile duct cancers, with zanidatamab showing promising results. Additionally, a study identified RASH3D19 as a target to overcome treatment resistance in KRAS-mutant cancers.

Iron-deficient diet prevents lung cells from fighting the flu

Researchers at Columbia University found that a lack of dietary iron early in life can prevent immune cells in the lung from making a key protein that helps fight viral infections. Iron deficiency impairs the function of memory T cells in the lungs, even after iron levels are restored.

Too sick to socialize: How the brain and immune system promote staying in bed

Researchers at MIT discovered how an immune system molecule, interleukin-1 beta, triggers a brain circuit to shut down social behavior in mice. The study found that the molecule activates neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus, leading to social withdrawal and lethargy.

LJI scientists discover how T cells transform to defend our organs

Researchers at LJI have discovered a cellular driver that leads to the development of tissue-resident memory T cells, which specialize in defending specific organs. The study found that GPR25 sustains TGF-\u00b2 signaling, promoting differentiation and transformation into these specialized immune cells.

New type of DNA damage found in our cells’ powerhouses

A new type of DNA damage, glutathionylated DNA adducts, accumulates at high levels in mitochondrial DNA, affecting energy production and stress response. The discovery sheds light on how cells sense and respond to stress, with potential implications for diseases like cancer and diabetes.

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.

Healing the heart after a heart attack

A new patch developed by Texas A&M University researcher Dr. Ke Huang may offer a way to help the heart heal after a heart attack by delivering interleukin-4 directly to damaged heart tissue. The patch uses a microneedle system to promote repair and improve heart function without affecting the rest of the body.

Study reveals how the gut builds long-lasting immunity after viral infections

Researchers found that immune cells in the gut follow an atypical pathway to produce antibodies providing long-term protection against viruses. The study could help guide the development of better vaccines for respiratory viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2.

1st death linked to ‘meat allergy’ spread by ticks

A 47-year-old man from New Jersey died after consuming beef due to a tick-borne meat allergy caused by the Lone Star tick's alpha-gal sugar. Researchers identified the allergy and its link to fatal anaphylaxis, urging physicians to investigate severe abdominal pain after eating red meat in areas with high Lone Star tick populations.

Temporary benefit for immune system in early HIV treatment, but dysregulation returns

Research at Amsterdam UMC found that early HIV treatment improves immune system function in the short term but leads to dysregulation in the long term. After six months of treatment, the immune system functions similarly to that of people without HIV, but this improvement is temporary and does not last beyond three years.

Chinese Medical Journal Study reveals circulating tumor cells' immune evasion strategies

A recent review in the Chinese Medical Journal uncovers how circulating tumor cells evade immune elimination, highlighting their interactions with immune cells and blood components. The study suggests new therapeutic targets, including anti-platelet therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors, to combat cancer metastasis.

Extensive LA-area fires altered blood proteins in firefighters, raising health concerns

A new study found that extensive wildfires in the LA area caused changes in firefighters' immune systems and inflammatory response pathways. The research identified 60 changes in serum proteome, affecting various bodily functions.

Research redefines pneumonia and sepsis care — and exposes urgent gaps in Ireland’s critical care capacity

Two landmark international studies published in The Lancet and Nature Medicine expose the need for faster recognition, better diagnostics, and personalized treatment pathways to combat pneumonia and sepsis. Irish ICUs face a shortage of beds, with implications for delayed care and increased mortality.

UC Riverside scientist recognized by American Federation for Aging Research

Huimin Zhang, a UC Riverside assistant professor, has received a $150,000 grant to study the role of HELIOS in epigenetic regulation of T cell aging and TFH cell differentiation. Her research aims to understand how aging affects the immune system and develop new vaccines and therapies to restore immune vitality in older adults.

How age affects vaccine responses and how to make them better

Scientists discovered profound and specific changes in T cells as people age, leading to weaker immune responses to vaccines. This insight opens the door to designing more effective vaccines by compensating for age-related cellular changes.

How multiple sclerosis harms a brain long before symptoms appear

Scientists analyzed thousands of proteins in blood samples to understand when multiple sclerosis attacks the myelin sheath and nerve fibers. Researchers identified a protein called IL-3, which plays a key role in this early phase of damage.

How to hack your microbiome for lifelong health

A healthy microbiome promotes overall well-being, influencing areas like cognition, mood, immunity, and disease susceptibility. By incorporating proven dietary interventions, regular exercise, stress reduction, and adequate sleep, individuals can harness their microbiome for optimal health.

Moderate-dose corticosteroid treatment improves patient recovery rates from sepsis

A study published in the Journal of Intensive Medicine found that moderate-dose corticosteroids improve sepsis patient recovery rates by stabilizing immune cells and reducing inflammation. The treatment also shows protective effects on the heart and vascular system, preventing cardiovascular failure and organ damage.