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Immune cell receptor provides promising immunotherapy target

A new strategy used by cancer cells to protect themselves from immune system attack has been identified, and a potential target for immunotherapy has been found. Blocking activin receptor 1C on CD4+ T cells may help prevent the accumulation of immune-suppressing Tregs in tumors and slow tumor growth.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalOncoImmunology·DateFeb 22, 2024
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NIH grant to aid Rumbaugh’s biofilm dispersal research

Rumbaugh's lab aims to understand the effects of dispersing bacteria from a biofilm on their susceptibility to antibiotics and on the host. They will use enzymes as tools to break up biofilms, allowing researchers to better comprehend the relationship between bacterial dispersal and infection outcomes.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·DateFeb 21, 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

Fasting-like diet lowers risk factors for disease, reduces biological age in humans

A fasting-mimicking diet has been shown to reduce signs of immune system aging, insulin resistance, and liver fat in humans, resulting in a lower biological age. The study found that patients who followed the diet had lower disease risk factors and improved immune function.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·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
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Researchers uncover mechanisms behind enigmatic shapes of nuclei

Scientists have deciphered the assembly process of flower-like nuclei in neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. This discovery enables potential therapeutic applications by guiding the development of new nuclear shapes to combat diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Dartmouth researchers offer new insights into how antibodies function against HSV

Researchers at Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine and Thayer School of Engineering have made significant breakthroughs in understanding how antibodies combat herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections. The study reveals that antibody effector functions play a critical role in protecting against HSV, which may lead to new treatments for n...

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024

Interferon-gamma drives brain pathology in a mouse model of multiple system atrophy

In a mouse model of multiple system atrophy, alpha-synuclein overexpression induces neuroinflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. IFNγ produced by infiltrating CD4+ T-cells mediates these changes. The study suggests that IFNγ is a potential future disease-modifying therapeutic target.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024

Immune genes are altered in Alzheimer’s patients’ blood

A Northwestern University study found epigenetic changes in Alzheimer's patients' blood that increase the risk of the disease. The researchers discovered altered immune genes and proteins in the blood that could be triggered by previous viral infections or environmental pollutants, potentially leading to brain damage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2024
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Mount Sinai study shows that circulating immune cells drawn to the brain during stress can control emotional behaviors

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have discovered that circulating immune cells can be drawn to the brain during stress and alter emotional behavior. The study found that these immune cells release an enzyme called MMP8, which breaks down proteins in the brain and impairs social behavior.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2024

Stress influences brain and psyche via immune system

A research team has discovered a novel mechanism by which stress affects the brain, revealing a potential new pathway for treating depression. Stress increases the production of MMP-8, an enzyme that alters neuron function and leads to behavioral changes.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 7, 2024

World-first discovery may enable an effective long-term lupus treatment

Monash University researchers have developed a treatment that restores the protective side of the immune system, preventing autoimmunity in people with lupus. The new method uses human cells to introduce protective molecules into defective T-regs, effectively 'resetting' the abnormal immune system.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2024

How T cells combat tuberculosis

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have identified 137 unique T cell epitopes targeted by the immune system in patients with active TB. These findings may lead to the development of new diagnostics and therapies for the disease, which affects over 1.3 million people worldwide.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2024
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Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Immune cells lose ‘killer instinct’ in cancerous tumors – but functionality can be re-awakened

Researchers discovered that immune cells called natural killer cells rapidly lose their functionality when entering solid tumours, adopting a dormant state. However, targeting the IL-15 pathway can restore NK cell activity and improve tumor control. This breakthrough could pave the way for new cancer treatments.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Vaccine targeting KRAS in pancreatic and colorectal cancer shows promise

A new off-the-shelf vaccine has shown encouraging early results as a potential treatment for patients with pancreatic or colorectal cancer who have certain KRAS gene mutations. The vaccine appears to stimulate the immune system to create cancer-fighting cells, delaying cancer recurrence in some patients.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 2, 2024

When a stressful situation is perceived as a threat, health and wellbeing suffer

Research from the University of Bath found that people who view stressful situations as threats are more likely to experience health problems, including depression and physical illnesses. In contrast, those who see challenges may report better health and wellbeing, with a suppressed immune system being a key factor.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalStress and Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 1, 2024

When and how immune cells decide to form pathogen memories

Researchers have discovered that immune cells can form memories of pathogens at multiple phases during an infection, with the ability to switch between memory and effector cell fates. This flexibility enables individuals to better adapt to uncertain situations and respond effectively to different threats.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2024
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GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Molecule can quickly, and briefly, boost white blood cell counts

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a molecule called A485 that can rapidly increase white blood cell counts in mice. The short-term effect of the molecule could inform future treatments for patients with low immune activity, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from rare genetic conditions.

SourceYale University·JournalImmunity·DateJan 31, 2024

Immunocompromised patients and COVID infections: Who’s at risk?

A recent study published in Lancet Microbe suggests that immunocompromised patients are at higher risk for COVID infections, but prolonged infections lasting weeks to months are uncommon. The study found that specific conditions, such as B-cell cancers and autoimmune diseases, increase the risk of prolonged infections.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·DateJan 26, 2024

‘Cancer-cooling’ protein puts bowel cancer on ice

A protein called Ku70 can be activated to help overcome bowel cancer by detecting damaged DNA in cells. The protein prevents cancer cells from becoming more aggressive and spreading, keeping them dormant. Researchers hope this breakthrough will lead to improved early detection and treatment methods.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Researchers discover why one type of chemotherapy works best in bladder cancer

Researchers discovered that cisplatin chemotherapy enhances the immune system's ability to fight bladder cancer by modulating the immune response and damaging DNA in cancer cells. This approach may lead to durable disease control in a subset of patients with metastatic bladder cancer.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJan 26, 2024

How the coronavirus defends itself against our immune system

A research team at the University of Göttingen has discovered 'protective switches' in the SARS-CoV-2 virus that shield it from attacks by the immune system. These molecular structures were found to stabilize the protein's structure against oxidative damage, allowing the virus to replicate effectively.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024
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Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Why do young women with multiple sclerosis face health disparities?

A new study published in Neurology found that young Black and Hispanic women with multiple sclerosis face greater challenges in pregnancy, have more advanced disease, and experience higher inflammation levels, which may signal MS progression. The researchers also noted disparities in healthcare access and treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeurology·DateJan 23, 2024

Evolution of the human immune system in the post-Omicron era

Research reveals memory T cells formed after Omicron breakthrough infection provide enhanced immunity against future variants. The study suggests the immune system adapts to combat emerging strains, leading to higher chances of inducing memory T cell defenses.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Clarifying the cause of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Researchers uncover pivotal aspect of GBS pathophysiology, revealing autoreactive T lymphocytes invade nerve tissue and target myelin. The findings provide novel insights into understanding GBS, opening avenues for targeted therapies for specific subtypes.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2024

Complement system causes cell damage in Long Covid

Researchers found that the complement system remains activated in Long Covid patients, causing cell damage and tissue destruction. This abnormal activity can lead to thromboinflammation and other symptoms of the condition.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

A new targeted treatment calms the cytokine storm

Researchers from Osaka University have discovered a novel treatment strategy for cytokine storm, a serious inflammatory syndrome triggered by an infection or severe burn. The new approach involves blocking IL-6 receptor signaling with a short-term antibody, minimizing treatment side effects and preventing vascular damage.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2024

We need a staph vaccine: here’s why we don’t have one

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine found that the immune system's response to Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can be tricked into producing non-protective antibodies, making vaccines ineffective. The study suggests targeting subdominant antigens for future vaccine development.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJan 16, 2024
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Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Incurable autoimmune disease Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): New genetic findings open up perspectives for future therapeutic approaches

Researchers identified a mutation in the UNC93B1 gene in patients with SLE, which leads to selective overactivation of TLR7 receptor and results in an immune attack on normal cells. The findings demonstrate that UNC93B1 controls the activity of specific nucleic acid receptors, such as TLR7, thereby preventing autoimmunity.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalScience Immunology·DateJan 12, 2024

Study shows genetically modified pluripotent stem cells may evade immunological rejection after transplantation

Researchers have successfully genetically modified pluripotent stem cells to evade immune recognition, offering a viable path forward for pluripotent stem cell-based therapies. The study's findings suggest that these engineered stem cells could pave the way for new treatments for diseases such as Type 1 diabetes and macular degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Higher viral load during HIV infection can shape viral evolution

Research finds that people with higher HIV viral loads have higher recombination rates, enabling the virus to diversify and evade the immune system. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of how recombination drives HIV evolution.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2024
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Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Clear link between autoimmune disease and perinatal depression

Women with autoimmune disease are 30% more likely to experience perinatal depression, while those with perinatal depression have a 30% higher risk of developing an autoimmune disease. The strongest association is seen with multiple sclerosis.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJan 8, 2024
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

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New reasons eating less fat should be one of your resolutions

A new study by University of California Riverside researchers found that high-fat diets affect not only obesity and colon cancer but also the immune system, brain function, and potentially COVID-19 risk. The study, which analyzed genetic changes in mice fed different types of fat, showed that polyunsaturated fatty acids in soybean oil ...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 3, 2024
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Risk model based on routine blood work predicts treatment response and survival of metastatic cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors

A risk model based on routine blood work can identify cancer patients who are more likely to benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors, increasing treatment efficacy and cost-effectiveness. The study found that patients in the low-risk group had a higher response rate and longer overall survival compared to those in the high-risk group.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalBMC Cancer·DateJan 3, 2024

A novel angle on type 1 diabetes: RNA editing disruption mimics early-stage disease with no involvement of virus

A recent study by the Hebrew University proposes a new etiology for early stages of type 1 diabetes, attributing it to disrupted RNA editing within pancreatic beta cells. This perspective challenges long-held beliefs about viral involvement, suggesting potential implications for treatments and cures.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 25, 2023

New type of antibody shows promise against multiple forms of flu virus

Researchers have identified a novel class of antibodies capable of neutralizing both certain H3 and H1 strains of the flu virus, with potential applications in developing more broadly protective flu vaccines. The findings could also contribute to reducing reliance on chicken egg-based manufacturing methods.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

Study: Spinal cord injury causes acute and systemic muscle wasting

Researchers found that the severity of muscle wasting depends on the location of the spinal cord injury. They also discovered that hypercortisolism, a hormonal imbalance, worsens muscle loss and can be targeted to rescue muscle tissue.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Immune system plays crucial step in creating blood stem cells

A microbial sensor, Nod1, plays a crucial role in the development of blood stem cells. The discovery could lead to the creation of patient-derived blood stem cells, eliminating the need for bone marrow transplants and improving lives of leukemia, lymphoma, and anemia patients. Researchers are continuing to study the complex interaction...

SourceIowa State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2023

Gut-skin connection is key factor in atopic dermatitis, research review shows

Recent research has identified the gut-skin axis as a critical factor in atopic dermatitis, with alterations to gut microbiome composition contributing to disease severity. The review article highlights promising therapeutic approaches, including diet, probiotics, and fecal transplants.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateDec 18, 2023

Toothbrushing tied to lower rates of pneumonia among hospitalized patients

A new study found that daily toothbrushing among hospitalized patients is associated with lower rates of hospital-acquired pneumonia and ICU mortality. The study, which analyzed data from over 2,700 patients, also showed that toothbrushing was linked to shorter durations of mechanical ventilation and ICU length of stay.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 18, 2023

B cell deficient patients gain protective T cell immunity following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and infection, study finds

Researchers found that vaccinated B cell-deficient individuals have a robust T cell response to SARS-CoV-2, despite lack of anti-spike antibodies, resulting in markedly reduced rates of hospitalization and severe COVID-19. This study provides reassuring evidence for immunocompromised patients to get vaccinated.

SourceRagon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2023

How the immune system fights to keep herpes at bay

Researchers have discovered key mechanisms by which the host immune system blocks viral infection in the cell's nucleus, including the role of signaling proteins called interferons and host protein IFI16. These findings could lead to new treatments for herpesviruses and other nuclear DNA viruses.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Multiple sclerosis: Possible basis for vaccine researched

A study by researchers at the Medical University of Vienna found that natural killer cells may play a crucial role in protecting against multiple sclerosis (MS) disease. The investigation revealed that strong EBV-specific and autoreactive immune responses combined with poor autoimmunity control increase MS risk.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalCell·DateDec 14, 2023

Patients can interrupt treatment of immune-supressing medicines for two weeks in order to boost immunity provided by COVID-19 booster vaccine, finds major study

A major study found that patients with inflammatory conditions can boost their antibody response to a COVID-19 booster vaccination by interrupting their treatment for two weeks. The improved protection lasts for six months, and patients who interrupted treatment reported more flare-ups but most were self-managed.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 12, 2023

Boosting immunotherapy in non-responsive cancer cells

A new study from Indian Institute of Science finds that certain types of cancer cells respond well to IFN-γ activation, while others don't. The researchers suggest approaches to make non-responsive cancer cells better respond to immunotherapy by targeting their metabolism.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateDec 11, 2023

T cells tackle new 'Pirola' SARS-CoV-2 variant

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology found that most T cells can still target epitopes on the new Pirola variant, suggesting people may be able to mount a response against it. The study's findings provide positive news in the fight against SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing the importance of vaccination with updated vaccines.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 8, 2023
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Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.