A small molecule STING agonist was highly protective against the virus that causes COVID-19 and likely other coronaviruses, researchers have found.
Stem cell drugs surprise researchers: Could lead to better drugs in the future
Chemotherapy destroys stem cells, which then cannot develop into immune cells and become part of the body’s defenses. There are drugs that can remedy this, but previously we did not know exactly how these drugs worked. Now, a new study details their fu…
Versatile coronavirus antibody may be starting point for broader-acting vaccines
Scientists investigated how the immune system’s previous exposure to cold-causing coronaviruses impact immune response to COVID-19. In doing so, they discovered one cross-reactive coronavirus antibody that’s triggered during a COVID-19 infection.
Ultrasensitive blood test detects viral protein, confirms mRNA vaccine activates robust immune response
In series of samples collected from individuals vaccinated against COVID-19, an ultrasensitive test detected low concentrations of circulating antigen. Following robust production of antibodies, investigators found that the viral protein declined to un…
Salmonella use intestinal epithelial cells to colonize the gut
The immune system’s attempt to eliminate Salmonella bacteria from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract instead facilitates colonization of the intestinal tract and fecal shedding, according to scientists.
How ‘non-professional’ cells can trigger immune response
Researchers are finding new details on the complex dynamics involved in how organisms sense an infection from pathogens. The researchers found that worms can sense changes in their metabolism in order to unleash protective defenses, even if they don’t …
A COVID-fighter’s guide to T cells
A new paper brings together research findings from COVID-19 researchers around the world. The results are striking: human T cells can target more than 1,400 sites on the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Immune cells imperfect at distinguishing between friend and foe
When it comes to distinguishing a healthy cell from an infected one that needs to be destroyed, the immune system’s killer T cells sometimes make mistakes.
Flu fighter: Nanoparticle-based vaccine effective in preclinical trials
An experimental flu vaccine consisting of billions of tiny spherical sacs that carry infection-fighting proteins throughout the body has proven effective in preclinical studies. The vaccine has the potential to improve the effectiveness of seasonal flu…
Diabetes vaccine gives promising results in a genetic subgroup
A clinical study has investigated whether immunotherapy against type 1 diabetes can preserve the body’s own production of insulin. The results suggest that injection of a protein, GAD, into lymph nodes can be effective in a subgroup of individuals.