A new study found that the heart sends signals to the brain to increase sleep after a heart attack, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. This communication between the heart and brain is mediated through the immune system and can lead to improved recovery and reduced risk of further cardiovascular events.
Researchers discovered a unique probiotic strain, Bifidobacterium bifidum BB1, that strengthens intestinal barrier function and protects against harmful bacteria. This strain may lead to the development of novel therapies for patients with inflammatory bowel disease and other inflammatory conditions.
Researchers found that the frequency of activated TREG cells remained elevated during treatment and continued to be high even after the virus was eliminated. Inflammatory features, such as increased TNF signaling, were sustained in TREG cells, indicating long-term immune system changes induced by the chronic infection.
A study found a significant association between the TNFSF15 rs4979462 gene variant and increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in female patients. Higher TNFSF15 serum levels were also correlated with SLE disease activity, suggesting this protein could be a biological marker for the disease.
Researchers found that inhibiting NLRP3 signaling reduces podocyte senescence, improves lifespan, and slows down healthy podocyte aging in mice. This discovery holds promise for treating age-related kidney diseases.
Researchers found that ruxolitinib, a clinically approved drug, suppresses ICB-resistant melanomas by reprogramming TILs and relying on host TNF signaling. This discovery offers a potential target for bypassing therapeutic resistance in advanced melanoma patients.
People taking immunosuppressants, especially TNF inhibitors, have a weaker antibody response to COVID-19 vaccines. A third dose can drive antibody levels back up, but the duration is unknown.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania reveals how defective viral genomes can help infected cells survive despite an immune system attack. The researchers discovered that signaling proteins encoded by these genomes protect infected cells from apoptosis, enabling them to persist in the face of an antiviral response.
Researchers discovered that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) regulates small blood vessel function and blood pressure by acting as a mechanosensor. TNF controls blood pressure, and drugs that interfere with TNF signaling can dramatically reduce it.
The IKK complex plays an unexpected role in protecting cells from death by inactivating RIPK1. This discovery reveals a new mechanism of action for the IKK complex beyond its well-known NF-kB-dependent functions, providing potential therapeutic targets for inflammatory conditions.
A study by NC State researchers found that a protein called TAB2 activates inflammation but also brings together molecules to turn it off. This finding challenges previous understanding of the protein's role in immune-system responses.