Articles tagged with Immune System
Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered a gene that allows pox viruses to camouflage themselves from the immune system. A new post-exposure vaccine aims to eliminate this gene, making the virus more visible to the immune system and improving disease resistance.
A new study published in the Journal of Immunology reveals that allergic eye disease can significantly increase the risk of corneal transplant rejection. Researchers found that mice with ocular allergies experienced a dramatic increase in graft rejection, with all grafts rejected in affected mice.
Researchers have found a gene that signals yeast to make bread rise and mice to eat a better diet also helps selectively silence the immune system. This finding may help explain how mothers avoid rejecting genetically foreign fetuses, providing a new target for treatments to ignore other desirable tissues like transplanted organs. The ...
Researchers found clear differences in immune cell responses between children with autism and typically developing children following exposure to bacterial agents and a plant lectin. The study suggests that a dysfunctional immune system may play a role in the development of autism, warranting further investigation.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that HIV vaccines may have failed due to the induction of self-reactive antibodies, which can destroy the body's own tissues. The team proposes a new approach to develop HIV vaccines by redirecting the immune response from innate B cells to adaptive B cells.
Acute stress temporarily mobilizes all major types of immune cells, which may enhance the immune system's ability to protect against infections and diseases. However, chronic stress may weaken the immune system, and excessive stress can worsen pre-existing inflammatory illnesses.
Researchers used structural biology to compare viral structures, discovering that some viruses share the same protein structure as the immune system. This finding suggests that viral building blocks may have served as precursors for the evolution of the immune system.
AlloMap molecular expression testing enables proactive monitoring of immune system signals, identifying rejection before it occurs. This non-invasive technology eliminates the need for frequent biopsies, improving individual patient outcomes and reducing patient discomfort.
Scientists attribute high frequency of CCR5-Ä32 mutation in Scandinavia and Russia to protection from lethal, viral haemorrhagic fevers that occurred during the Middle Ages. The disease provided selection pressure for the mutation, which explains its highest frequency in these regions today.
Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the mechanism behind African sleeping sickness by discovering a new protein called JBP2. This protein is believed to play an important role in regulating the production of base J, a unique modified DNA base that enables trypanosomes to evade the human immune system.
Shigella bacteria uses a Type III secretion system to inject proteins into human cells, causing inflammation and symptoms of dysentery. The bacteria's lipopolysaccharide (LPS) shield protects it from being destroyed by the immune system.
Tributyltin oxide (TBT) affects the mechanical activity of outer hair cells, which boost incoming sound energy to inner hair cells. The study found rapid and profound effects of TBT on outer hair cell membrane chloride ion exchange.
Researchers found an extensive system of dendritic cells throughout the intestinal tract that take up bacteria and other antigens. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of conditions like Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as the development of new vaccines.
Researchers have found that variations in the SLAM/CD2 gene cluster may contribute to autoimmune disease SLE in mice. The study suggests that altered members of this family may be responsible for abnormal lymphocyte responses.
A 12-center study found that an immune-modulating therapy, IVIG, reduces high antibody levels and improves transplantation rates in highly sensitized patients. The study showed a significant benefit of IVIG over placebo, with transplant rates more than double for the treatment group.
Researchers found that increased fat reserves bolster immune systems in animals, providing extra insulation from cold and energy to fight pathogens. This study suggests a potential benefit of temporary weight gain during winter holidays.
Researchers found evidence of ongoing inflammatory process in autistic brains, particularly in regions involving microglia and astroglia. Cytokine and chemokine levels were abnormally elevated, suggesting localized inflammation within the brain.
Researchers have found brain inflammation associated with autism, suggesting immune activation plays a role in the disorder. The study's findings support the theory that immune activation is involved in autism, but further research is needed to understand its benefits and drawbacks.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh identified abnormal levels of protein erythrocyte-C4d in patients with lupus, showing high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for the disease. This finding may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for patients with lupus.
Researchers developed a genetically altered mouse model for Sjögren's syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder affecting 0.6 percent of the population. The Id3-deficient mice exhibited reduced tear and saliva secretion, lymphocyte infiltration, and autoantibody production, mirroring human disease characteristics.
Research suggests that early life stress can alter the developing immune system, making it more vulnerable to diseases like multiple sclerosis. Infant mice subjected to maternal separation showed increased virus levels and impaired recovery from infection compared to non-separated mice.
Researchers found that IL15 induces a series of biochemical changes in NKG2D signaling pathway converting CTL cells into Lymphokine-Activated Killer Cells. MICA molecules are present in elevated amounts in celiac patients' intestinal cells, providing a target for immune cell attacks
The NIAID has formed a clinical consortium to improve the success of organ transplants by identifying genetic factors and developing new immunosuppressive drugs. The consortium aims to minimize complications and increase long-term survival rates for transplant patients.
A novel study found that regular moderate physical activity significantly improves the immune response in older men, with increased anti-KLH IgM, IgG, and delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions. This suggests that a physically active lifestyle can maintain optimal T cell-mediated responses, particularly during times of immunocompromise.
A research team has identified a new pathway for the display of foreign proteins to the immune system, distinct from the conventional TAP-dependent pathway. This alternative pathway requires cysteine proteases and contributes to immunity against viruses and transplanted tissues.
A Rutgers-Newark scientist has found that mosquitoes may carry a lethal parasite called B. algerae, which can invade human muscle tissue and cause death. The parasite is typically found in the tissues of mosquitoes and can be transmitted to humans through mosquito bites.
Researchers have identified a way to exploit the body's natural protective mechanisms used by tumors to evade the immune system. By targeting an immunosuppressive enzyme called IDO, scientists may be able to create new cancer treatments that make tumors more vulnerable to the immune response.
OHSU researchers are studying vaccination methods for seniors and children, with a focus on developing protection against infectious diseases. The study aims to understand immune system changes that occur with aging and develop methods to manipulate the system for better protection.
A study found that genetically modified mice lacking SAP gene develop normal immune functions despite pristane exposure, which typically induces lupus-like symptoms. The researchers suggest targeting SAP for treatment may be an ideal approach to developing new drug treatments for autoimmune diseases.
A meta-analysis of 293 studies found that stress affects immunity in distinct ways, with short-term stress boosting natural immunity but chronic stress weakening it. Chronic stress is particularly damaging, especially for older or sick individuals, while acute time-limited stressors enhance quick energy-efficient responses.
This innovative approach enables visualization of immune system killer cells attacking tumors, providing insights into the immune response. Dr. Witte's collaboration with clinicians and scientists is paving the way for molecular imaging in clinical trials.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have discovered that dendritic cells can stimulate the growth of suppressor T cells, which turn off the immune response and rescue islet cells from destruction. This breakthrough could lead to a prevention of Type 1 diabetes in humans.
Researchers found tumor disappearance and shrinking in four out of nine patients with advanced melanoma treated with CP-675,206. The antibody works by blocking a negative regulator of the immune system, allowing it to attack cancer cells. A Phase II study is now underway to further investigate the treatment.
The University of Pittsburgh's novel clinical protocol has shown promising results in reducing immunosuppressive medication use for lung transplant patients. With over a year of follow-up, the approach has led to improved one-year survival rates and fewer complications associated with traditional treatments.
Researchers found that bacterial proteins are destroyed by the proteasome within the cytosol during infection, activating the immune system. Bacteria like Listeria avoid recognition by moving within the cytosol, preventing immune activation.
Researchers discovered a protein, H2-DM, that helps distinguish between foreign and native proteins in the immune system. This distinction is crucial to prevent autoimmune conditions like diabetes, lupus, and arthritis.
Research reveals that stress triggers a hormonal response that modifies immune system function, leading to increased vulnerability to mental and physical diseases. Stress can create long-term damage by initiating an inflammatory state in the body, which can lead to chronic diseases such as depression and coronary artery disease.
A new hypothesis suggests that autoimmunity is triggered by insufficient immune stimulation, leading to a decrease in T cells and an overactive expansion of the remaining population. This condition, known as lymphopenia, can cause diseases like Type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers discover HIV mutations that prevent immune system from recognizing protein fragments, allowing virus to replicate and increase in number. This finding highlights the importance of considering nearby regions not recognized by the immune system when designing vaccines.
A genetic marker has been identified that predicts with 100% accuracy individuals at risk of severe adverse reactions to the anti-epilepsy drug carbamazepine. This discovery highlights the promise of pharmacogenomics in avoiding serious side effects and may lead to advances in clinical trials for new drugs.
Researchers at NIAID have found that mouse immune systems produce antibodies capable of single-handedly neutralizing the SARS virus. This discovery confirms that vaccines triggering antibodies to the SARS virus are on the right track, and could lead to a faster development of effective vaccines or antiviral drugs.
A new clinical study examines whether restoring good bacteria in intensive-care patients can help prevent infections. The study, led by Dr. Robert G. Martindale, aims to enroll 400 patients and assess the effectiveness of probiotics in reducing infections.
Researchers at the NIH's National Eye Institute have developed a new therapy, daclizumab, that controls uveitis inflammation in seven of 10 patients over a four-year period. The therapy is well-tolerated and may allow patients to administer it to themselves at home.
A new protein called VLA-1 enables the immune system to develop peripheral immunity by anchoring virus-killing cells to tissues in the lungs. This allows for an instant strike against flu viruses, potentially delivering a better defense against deadly strains like avian flu.
Chronic HIV infection causes non-specific premature maturation of T-cells, resulting in replicative senescence and exhaustion of the immune system. This leads to an increased likelihood of opportunistic infections, making HIV so deadly.
A new study by Stanford Peng and colleagues has found that a gene called Foxj1 helps keep immune attack cells inactive. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for autoimmune diseases, including lupus and multiple sclerosis.
Rockefeller University scientists have discovered that natural killer cells, a crucial part of the immune system, need to be 'nurtured' before they can effectively destroy tumor and infected cells. This new understanding paves the way for potential changes in bone marrow and stem cell transplant procedures.
Researchers have discovered three genetic variants linked to psoriasis, a complex trait influenced by multiple genes and environmental factors. The study may lead to improved treatments by understanding the molecular mechanisms of the disease.
NIAMS researchers collaborated with Pfizer to develop and test a new immunosuppressant drug, CP-690,550, which targets the immune system without causing toxic side effects. The study showed promising results in mice and monkeys, suggesting potential for treating autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that smoking significantly increases the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS), regardless of age or education level. The study examined over 22,000 people and found that smokers were 1.81 times more likely to develop MS than non-smokers.
Wilfred Jefferies and his team have discovered a cellular pathway that triggers immune responses and identified a specialized organelle within dendritic cells controlling immune system activation. The findings hold enormous implications for patients, enabling targeted treatment adjustments to regulate immune responses.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a novel flu treatment that can eliminate symptoms by targeting the overactive immune response. The treatment, which works by selectively reducing the response of active T white blood cells, has shown promising results in mice and may offer new hope for pandemic prevention.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia discover a molecule, HLA-G, that helps keep immune cells immature and tolerant during pregnancy. This mechanism may be replicated to preserve transplanted organs and reduce rejection rates.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have identified a key finding about how donor kidneys adapt to new bodies. By analyzing gene expression patterns, the study found that donor kidneys can develop protective processes that shield them from the recipient's immune system, potentially reducing rejection rates and improving transplant outcomes.
Researchers have identified a small subset of dendritic cells that can suppress T-cell responses, potentially treating tumors and autoimmune diseases. Experimental immunosuppressive agents are being explored for their ability to target this subset, offering new hope for patients with transplanted organs and autoimmune conditions.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine developed a targeted DNA vaccine that can predict and treat autoimmune diseases like M.S. by analyzing antibody profiles. The vaccine uses tolerization to knock out harmful immune responses while leaving the rest of the system functional, offering new hope for personalized therapies.
Researchers found that HPV16 is less associated with immune status than other HPV types, suggesting it can skirt the immune system. This discovery raises hypotheses about why cervical cancer rates are only moderately increased in HIV/AIDS-affected women.
A new study led by Janice Kiecolt-Glaser and Ronald Glaser found that caregivers of chronically ill patients experience prolonged immune disregulation, increasing their risk for age-related diseases. The research suggests that chronic stress and caregiving duties can have lasting effects on the immune system.
A study found that long-term caregivers experienced a rapid increase in proinflammatory cytokine levels, which continued even after the care recipient died. The research suggests that chronic stress can prematurely age the immune response and contribute to various age-related diseases.
Researchers found that combining amiodarone with antifungal agents miconazole and fluconazole kills more fungi than expected, making it a promising treatment for severe fungal infections. The unique mechanism of action disrupts calcium balance in fungal cells, leading to their death.