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Novel PET imaging method more fully evaluates extent of rheumatoid arthritis inflammation

A new PET imaging method evaluates the extent of rheumatoid arthritis inflammation by targeting translocator protein (TSPO) expression in joint lining tissue. The study demonstrates that TSPO PET can image not only synovial macrophages but also activated synovial fibroblasts, a critical process in RA pathogenesis.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJul 9, 2018

Eat 'em up: Next-generation therapeutic helps immune cells detect, destroy cancer

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a supramolecular therapeutic that blocks the 'eat me not' signal sent by cancer cells and converts macrophages to the attacking M1 subtype. The approach has yielded promising results in preclinical models, showing complete inhibition of tumor growth and increased survival rates.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 2, 2018

Tumor suppressor protein plays key role in suppressing infections

A tumor suppressor protein called Arl11 has been found to play a crucial role in the functioning of the immune system, particularly in detecting and destroying pathogens. By initiating a signaling cascade, Arl11 helps macrophages to engulf bacteria and release signaling molecules that activate other immune cells.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2018

When muscles weaken with age

Researchers discover a causal relationship between inflammatory responses in aging nerves and degenerative aging processes. The team found that reducing macrophage activity improves nerve structure and function, increasing mobility and quality of life for those affected by age-related muscle weakness.

New actors identified in atherosclerosis

Researchers have identified three distinct macrophage populations that play different roles in the development of atherosclerosis. These findings provide new insights into the disease and may lead to improved treatments. The study used single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze immune cell populations in affected vessels.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCirculation Research·DateApr 5, 2018

Macular degeneration linked to aging immune cells

Research at Washington University School of Medicine found that aging immune cells contribute to inflammation and abnormal blood vessel growth in macular degeneration, potentially leading to vision loss. The study identified microRNA-150 as a potential therapeutic target for preventing progression to advanced forms of the disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 5, 2018

Multiple optical measurements reveal the single cell activation without contrast agent

The researchers developed a label-free multimodal microscopy platform that allows non-invasive study of cellular preparations. The platform enables the study of fine cellular processes, such as macrophage cells activation upon exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), at single-cell level through phenotypic and molecular characterization.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2018

Cardiac macrophages found to contribute to a currently untreatable type of heart failure

A Massachusetts General Hospital team discovered that macrophages, immune cells known for removing debris, are actively involved in the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Elevated levels of inflammatory cardiac macrophages were found in both mouse models and human patients with HFpEF.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2018

Re-programming innate immune cells to fight tuberculosis

A team of Canadian researchers has discovered a way to re-program innate immune cells to kill tuberculosis. The innovative work aims to make vaccines more effective against TB and other infectious diseases like the flu. By targeting stem cells in the bone marrow, scientists were able to boost the killing efficiency of macrophages.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell·DateJan 11, 2018

On-and-off fasting helps fight obesity

A study published in Cell Research found that intermittent fasting can be beneficial for the metabolism, reducing fat build-up and stabilizing glucose and insulin systems. After sixteen weeks of on-and-off fasting, mice weighed less and had lower body fat compared to control groups.

SourceSpringer·JournalCell Research·DateOct 17, 2017

Testicular macrophages are guardians of fertility

Two types of testicular macrophages have been identified, one found in interstitial spaces and another on the surface of seminiferous tubules. These macrophages prevent other immune system agents from entering the testes by releasing specific molecules.

SourceCNRS·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 11, 2017