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Immune cells need a second opinion

Researchers at the University of Bonn have decoded a new immunoregulatory mechanism controlling defense in urinary tract infections. The mechanism involves two types of macrophages regulating neutrophils, with sentinel macrophages triggering an alarm and helper macrophages providing a safety mechanism to prevent collateral damage.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell·DateFeb 4, 2014

Immune cells may heal an injured heart

A study in mice reveals two major pools of immune cells that promote healing and drive inflammation in the heart. Healthy hearts maintain a population of embryonic macrophages, while adult macrophages are recruited during cardiac stress, leading to inflammation. The findings provide new insights into the complex interplay between these...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateJan 16, 2014

Finding about classic suppressor of immunity points toward new therapies for bad infections

Researchers have discovered that indoleamine 2,3-dioxigenase (IDO) can promote inflammation in response to infection, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets. By manipulating IDO's activity, scientists may be able to fine-tune the immune response and reduce cytokine storms associated with severe infections.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateJan 7, 2014

From friend to foe: How benign bacteria evolve to virulent pathogens

In a groundbreaking study, researchers found that benign E. coli bacteria can evolve to become pathogenic within 500 generations or 30 days when confronted with macrophages. The bacteria adapted by developing resistance to being killed by immune cells and acquiring traits similar to those of deadly pathogens.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 12, 2013

Golden staph paralyzes our immune defenses

Researchers have identified how golden staph bacteria target and destroy key immune cells, disrupting the body's defense against infection. By visualizing this process using advanced microscopy techniques, the team gained insights into how golden staph evades the immune system and causes tissue damage.

SourceCentenary Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateNov 25, 2013

Dysfunctional chemokine receptor promotes candidiasis

A dysfunctional chemokine receptor, CXCR1, plays a crucial role in Candida infection progression. Mice lacking this receptor are prone to kidney failure due to Candida-induced injury. Additionally, patients with a mutation in the CXCR1 gene are at higher risk of developing candidiasis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2013

A secret to making macrophages

Researchers at Caltech have discovered a new mechanism for creating macrophages by increasing the accumulation of regulatory protein PU.1 through slowed cell division. The process involves an unexpected cycle where cell division slows, allowing higher PU.1 levels to accumulate and prompt macrophage generation.

JCI early table of contents for July 8, 2013

Researchers found that macrophages are essential for embryo implantation in the uterus. The absence of these cells leads to reduced hormone levels, causing embryos to fail to implant. Restoration of macrophage function or hormone replacement therapy can revive pregnancy, shedding new light on a potential cause of infertility.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 8, 2013

Immune cells play a role in early pregnancy

Researchers found that macrophages help regulate corpus luteum development during embryo implantation, which is essential for successful pregnancy. The absence of macrophages can lead to infertility due to disrupted hormone levels, but restoring them or administering hormones can correct this issue.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 8, 2013

Stem cell bodyguards

A recent study has revealed the existence of a rare sub-group of activated immune cells that act as bodyguards to protect stem cells from premature differentiation. These macrophage cells secrete prostaglandins, which delay differentiation and preserve the youthful state of the stem cells.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 22, 2012

University of Maryland School of Medicine scientists develop stem cell model for hereditary disease

Scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine created a stem cell model for Gaucher disease, allowing them to test potential therapies in a dish. The study uses genetically similar stem cells that react to drugs like patient cells, accelerating drug discovery and bringing hope to patients.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2012