Cowpea mosaic virus, when injected into cancerous tumors, stimulates the immune system to attack and often eliminate the tumor. In a new study, immunology researchers characterize the previously unidentified pathways through which CPMV is recognized by…
Space travel weakens our immune systems: Now scientists may know why
Microgravity in space perturbs human physiology and is detrimental for astronaut health, a fact first realized during early Apollo missions when astronauts experienced inner ear disturbances, heart arrhythmia, low blood pressure, dehydration, and loss …
Fundamental advance in understanding T cell immunity
Researchers have provided a fundamental advance regarding how T cells become activated when encountering pathogens such as viruses.
Researchers identify a molecule critical to functional brain rejuvenation
A new study has identified a molecule called ten-eleven-translocation 1 (TET1) as a necessary component in the repair of myelin, which protects nerves and facilitates accurate transmission of electrical signals. The discovery could have important impli…
Lessons from the last pandemic point the way toward universal flu vaccines
A new study shows that during the last great pandemic — 2009’s H1N1 influenza pandemic — people developed strong, effective immune responses to stable, conserved parts of the virus.
Many COVID-19 patients produce immune responses against their body’s tissues or organs
A new study has found that many patients with COVID-19 produce immune responses against their body’s own tissues or organs.
Novel antibody drug wakes up the body’s defense system in advanced-stage cancer
Researchers have shown that the antibody treatment reactivates the immune defense in patients with advanced-stage cancer. The treatment alters the function of the body’s phagocytes and facilitates extensive activation of the immune system.
Studies reveal skull as unexpected source of brain immunity
Researchers have discovered that the immune cells that protect the brain and spinal cord come primarily from the skull. The finding opens up the possibility of developing therapies to target such cells as a way to prevent or treat brain conditions.
Secondary infections inflame the brain, worsening cognition in Alzheimer’s disease
New research into Alzheimer’s disease (AD) suggests that secondary infections and new inflammatory events amplify the brain’s immune response and affect memory in mice and in humans — even when these secondary events occur outside the brain.
Protein disguise could be new target for cancer immunotherapy
Researchers have identified a protein that helps tumors evade the immune system and, in certain types of cancers, is linked to a poorer chance of survival. The protein could become a target for future cancer treatments.