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Control hub for skin inflammation discovered

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified a new signaling pathway that triggers inflammatory responses in the skin after UV damage. This pathway involves the activation of p38 molecularly modifying NLRP1, a critical switch for inflammation, and initiates the assembly of inflammasomes.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 2, 2022

How bacteria defuse hypothiocyanite, an antimicrobial weapon of the innate immune system

Researchers discovered a novel role for an E. coli enzyme in reducing the toxic effects of hypothiocyanite, a key antimicrobial released by the human immune system. This finding has implications for diseases like cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel disease, as it suggests that various bacteria can evade this powerful oxidant.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2022

SARS-CoV-2 variants have developed resistance to human interferons

Researchers at CU Anschutz Medical Campus investigated SARS-CoV-2 variant interactions with diverse interferons, finding the virus has adapted to evade this key front-line defense. The study suggests COVID-19 clinical trials on interferons may need to be reinterpreted based on circulating variants.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 25, 2022

New approach against chronic inflammation

Researchers have developed a new treatment for chronic inflammation by targeting the ASC protein with nanobodies, which can dissolve harmful molecular complexes and counteract inflammation. The treatment has shown promising results in mouse models, alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 19, 2022

The hardy wild grass that could save our bread

A team of researchers identified a stem rust resistance gene from wild goat grass species Aegilops sharonensis, which can be cross-bred into wheat for immunity against deadly crop pathogens. The genetic potential of this hardy relative has been largely unexplored and holds promise for reducing the threat of the stem rust disease.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2022

Newly developed radio-labeled molecule enables real-time imaging of innate immune activity

Researchers at University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center developed a novel PET imaging tool to selectively monitor inflammation and innate immune activity. The new radio-labeled molecule, [18F]4FN, is more specific and robust than existing agents, offering potential for early biomarker detection of immune-related adverse events.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Study at molecular level finds IRL green sea turtles biologically stressed

Research at Florida Atlantic University found that green sea turtles in polluted environments have impaired immune systems, leading to increased disease susceptibility. The study suggests a positive feedback loop where pollution compromises immunity, making turtles more prone to Green Turtle Fibropapillomatosis.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Good cop, bad cop

Researchers use zebrafish to study human cancer and discover that the innate immune system actively destroys cancer cells. However, tumor cells can adapt and evade immune detection through a process called 'Immunoediting', leading to immunotherapy resistance.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 19, 2021

New insights into the aging brain

A new study reveals that klotho acts as a shield between the brain and immune system, protecting against age-related cognitive decline. The research found that low levels of klotho in the choroid plexus lead to increased brain inflammation, which can impair brain functions.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 12, 2018

Innate immune adaptor TRIF confers neuroprotection in ALS

A deficiency of TRIF, a key innate immune adaptor, significantly shortens the survival time of ALS mice by allowing the accumulation of toxic reactive oxygens. This study reveals a new role for innate immunity in ALS pathomechanism and provides a clue to develop a therapeutic approach for protecting motor neurons.

SourceNagoya University·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·DateApr 15, 2018

Vampire bat immunity and infection risk respond to livestock rearing

Research reveals that vampire bats in areas with high livestock abundance have different immune profiles, investing more in adaptive immunity to fight infections. The study's findings also suggest a higher risk of virus transmission to humans through cross-species contact, highlighting the importance of sustainable farming practices.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateMar 26, 2018