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Rare genetic disease may protect Ashkenazi Jews against TB

Research by University of Cambridge scientists reveals that a rare genetic disorder, Gaucher disease, provides protection against TB due to an unusual fatty chemical that acts as a microbicide. The study suggests that Ashkenazi Jews, who are more susceptible to Gaucher disease, may be less likely to contract TB infection.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2023

Spanish scientists identify a new therapeutic target in macrophages for the treatment of obesity-related diseases

Macrophages adapt their metabolism according to the organ they reside in, reveals Spanish scientists. This discovery highlights a vulnerability of macrophages that contributes to chronic inflammatory diseases and could be exploited therapeutically for conditions like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

“Spleen-on-a-chip” yields insight into sickle cell disease

Researchers developed a microfluidic device to model the spleen's filtration function in patients with sickle cell disease. The study found that low oxygen levels can cause the spleen's filters to become clogged, while boosting oxygen levels can unclog them, potentially explaining how blood transfusions help patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2023

Identified mechanism involved in development and intensification of cancer treatment-related pain

A study found that immune checkpoint inhibitors enhance chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain by blocking interaction between macrophages and neurons via PD1-PDL1 synergy. This discovery could lead to the development of therapeutic alternatives to prevent pain while maintaining anti-neoplastic effects.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateJan 30, 2023

Oncotarget | Resistance of MMTV-NeuT/ATTAC mice to anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint therapy is associated with macrophage infiltration and Wnt pathway expression

Researchers found that MMTV-NeuT/ATTAC mice treated with anti-PD-1 therapy developed increased tumor-associated macrophages, EMT, fibroblast proliferation, and enhanced extracellular matrix. These findings suggest potential therapeutic avenues to enhance PD-1 immune checkpoint sensitivity.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2023

Researchers determine genetic variants offered protection during Black Death, associated with current autoimmune disorders

A study found that genetic variants near ERAP2 and TICAM2 provided protection against Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for the Black Death. These variants were also associated with improved detection and resistance to other pathogens, but at a cost: increased risk of autoimmune disorders like Crohn's disease.

Combined effect of bacteria and iron levels on the progression of colorectal cancer

Researchers found that excessive iron accumulation accelerates tumor growth in F. nucleatum-positive colorectal cancer by enhancing inflammatory responses in immune cells, promoting interpatient prognostic variability. Iron levels also modulate macrophage expression profiles, transforming them into pro-tumor cells expressing CCL8.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2022

A new nanoparticle to act at the heart of cells

Researchers have developed a transport nanoparticle to deliver an anti-inflammatory drug, Necrosulfonamide (NSA), directly into macrophages to combat inflammatory overactivation. The mesoporous silica nanoparticle is fully biodegradable and non-toxic, showing remarkable efficacy in reducing inflammation.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeNews article·DateNov 8, 2022

New strategy enables targeted treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

A new strategy for treating rheumatoid arthritis has been proposed, integrating small interfering RNAs and Prussian blue nanoparticles to silence proinflammatory cytokines and scavenge reactive oxygen species. The approach was tested in a mouse model, showing improved therapeutic efficacy and real-time monitoring capabilities.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 21, 2022

Infections can have long-term consequences

A VUB study has mapped the immune system's response to brain infections, revealing that resident macrophages play a key role in defending against pathogens. The researchers found that blood-derived immune cells can eliminate parasites, but may retain 'memory' of past infections, altering their ability to respond to future insults.

SourceVrije Universiteit Brussel·JournalImmunity·DateOct 12, 2022

Kidney resident macrophages have distinct subpopulations and occupy distinct microenvironments

Researchers identified seven distinct subpopulations of kidney resident macrophages, each with unique transcriptomic signatures and functions. These subpopulations are associated with different portions of the nephron and have distinct roles in protecting the kidney from infection and maintaining tissue health.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2022

Stowers scientists use zebrafish to understand the connection between the immune system and regeneration

Stowers scientists investigate macrophage activation states in zebrafish sensory organ, discovering three distinct anti-inflammatory pathways that may inform human regenerative immunotherapies. The study provides valuable insights into the timing and genetic programs of macrophages, a type of white blood cell, in repair and regeneration.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2022

High cholesterol leads to long-term liver scarring and immune cell dysfunction in lab study

A lab study found that high cholesterol intake worsens fatty liver disease progression by driving inflammation and scarring. The researchers also discovered long-lasting dysfunction in immune cells responsible for fighting liver damage. Moderation is key to maintaining a healthy diet, according to the study's findings.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

DNA guardians out of control

Scientists at the University of Bonn discovered that an overactivated cGAS/STING signaling pathway leads to severe inflammation in ANCA-associated vasculitis. The study involved patients with the disease and a novel mouse model, providing new insights into potential drug targets.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2022

Immune cell model paves way for new treatments targeting common infection amongst immunocompromised children

Researchers have successfully engineered human immune cells to model an infection common among immunocompromised people, paving the way for new drug testing and treatments. The immune cell type created played a key role in infection, inflammation, and regeneration, but also served as a natural host for germs.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2022

In fine print: Study sheds light on mechanisms driving 1,2-dichloropropane-induced cancer in the printing industry

A new study led by Tokyo University of Science researchers identifies altered gene expression and cell function changes that drive DNA damage and neoplasia in cholangiocytes exposed to 1,2-dichloropropane. The findings highlight the importance of macrophage involvement in carcinogenesis.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2022

Anti-inflammatory compound shows potential in treating patients with severe COVID-19

A multi-site trial found OP-101 to be effective in reducing inflammatory markers and markers of neurological injury, with improved outcomes for patients. The study showed a significant reduction in the composite outcome of mechanical ventilation or death at 30 and 60 days after treatment.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 20, 2022

Quality control for antibodies

A team led by Dr. Johan Duchêne investigated commercial antibodies against ACKR1, refuting a previous study that claimed its expression on macrophages and monocytes. The study emphasizes the significance of antibody specificity and demonstrates the importance of publishing corrections in scientific research.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 8, 2022

Females itch less than males

Research at Kyoto University found that estradiol suppresses severe skin inflammation in females compared to males, revealing its therapeutic potential. The hormone regulates immune cells and reduces IL-17A and IL-1β cytokines production.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2022

Chinese Medical Journal review explores the role of macrophages in the progression of acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease

A recent review article highlights the crucial role of macrophages in the progression from acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study suggests that targeting specific signaling pathways and altering macrophage activation can prevent renal fibrosis and CKD. Therapeutic strategies such as clodronate liposomes an...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 20, 2022

Uncovering new details of the brain's first line of defense

A study by Kyushu University researchers has analyzed the development and genetic profile of a set of cells that construct the brain's immune system. The findings reveal that meningeal macrophages develop in the same way as other microglia, but perivascular macrophages originate from meningeal macrophages after birth.

SourceKyushu University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2022

Why do some people get sicker than others from COVID?

Researchers found that individuals with a diverse population of macrophage cells, which include M2 and regulatory macrophages, are better protected against severe COVID-19. The study suggests that a balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses is key to preventing the worst symptoms.

SourceBoston University·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 5, 2022

Biodegradable gel boosts immune system's attack on several cancers in mice

A new biodegradable gel has been developed to improve the immune system's ability to combat cancer. The gel releases drugs and special antibodies that target tumor cells, slowing their growth and increasing the lifespan of mice. This breakthrough could lead to new clinical trials for human patients in the coming years.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022

Pancreatic cancer cells harness normal tissue turnover to build protective barriers

Researchers found that pancreatic cancer cells trigger the breakdown of collagen proteins, which increases arginine levels and signals stellate cells to build fibrotic meshes around tumors. This process, known as desmoplasia, creates a dense environment that promotes aggressive growth and blocks access to therapies.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2022

New study reveals insights into how early immune response defines severity of COVID-19

A new study by Princeton University researchers reveals that macrophages, a type of immune cell, are crucial in the early immune response to SARS-CoV-2. The study used humanized mice with human lung tissue and blood stem cells to investigate the role of macrophages and identified specific genes associated with an effective antiviral re...

SourcePrinceton University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 3, 2022

New oncogenic mechanisms in lymphoma via extracellular vesicles discovered

Researchers have identified a new mechanism of action for extracellular vesicles in the development and progression of lymphomas. sPLA2 secreted by tumor-associated macrophages degrades EV-derived phospholipids, enhancing EV function and inducing vital phenomena. This discovery may lead to new drug targets for cancer treatment.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2022

Treating TB: uOttawa scientists collaborate to identify new drug for unique therapeutic approach

Researchers develop novel therapeutic approach for treating tuberculosis using phosphatase inhibitors, offering potential benefits for TB research and basic biology exploration. The discovery provides a promising alternative to traditional antibiotic-based treatments and has significant implications for combating antimicrobial resistance.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalCell Chemical Biology·TypeContent analysis·DateMar 22, 2022

Quantum dots shine bright to help scientists see inflammatory cells in fat

Researchers at the University of Illinois created quantum dots to visualize macrophages in fat tissue, shedding light on chronic inflammation's role in diseases. The new technology enables accurate cell counting and tracking over time, offering a potential diagnostic tool for insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.