Researchers have discovered that acetate, a major metabolite produced by some intestinal bacteria, is involved in regulating other intestinal bacteria. Experiments specifically showed that acetate could trigger an immune response against potentially ha…
When mad AIOLOS drags IKAROS down: A novel pathogenic mechanism
Researchers have described a novel primary immunodeficiency due to a mutation in AIOLOS. This acts through a novel pathogenic mechanism termed ‘heterodimeric interference’, whereby when two different proteins bind together in a heterodimer, the mutant …
New theory suggests blood immune and clotting components could contribute to psychosis
A scientific review has found evidence that a disruption in blood clotting and the first line immune system could be contributing factors in the development of psychosis.
New UK study reveals extent of brain complications in children hospitalized with COVID-19
Although the risk of a child being admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 is small, a new UK study has found that around 1 in 20 of children hospitalized with COVID-19 develop brain or nerve complications linked to the viral infection.
Human cells harness power of detergents to wipe out bacteria
Researchers have discovered that a molecule found within many of the body’s cells kills germs by dissolving their protective membranes.
T-cell ‘training grounds’ behind robust immune system response seen in adenovirus vaccines
Adenovirus vaccine vectors, such as the ChAdOx1 nCov-19 construct which has risen to prominence as a major vaccine for COVID-19, may generate robust long-term immune system responses, according to scientists.
New spray could someday help heal damage after a heart attack
Heart attack, or myocardial infarction, is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Although modern surgical techniques, diagnostics and medications have greatly improved early survival from these events, many patients struggle with the long-term …
Signaling molecule may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease
The main driver of Alzheimer’s disease is excessive inflammation in the brain that is triggered by cells called astrocytes and microglia in response to high levels of amyloid beta deposits and tau tangles. New research reveals that a subset of astrocyt…
Fungi that live in the gut influence health and disease
Bacteria’s role in gut health has received attention in recent years. But new research shows that fungi — another microorganism that lives within us — may be equally important in health and disease. Fungi thrive in the healthy gut, but when interacti…
Like priming a pump, cells damaged by chronic lung disease can result in severe COVID
New research suggests that the airway cells of patients with chronic lung diseases are ‘primed’ for infection by the COVID-19 virus, resulting in more severe symptoms, poorer outcomes and a greater likelihood of death.