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.
Mild COVID-19 induces lasting antibody protection, study finds
People who have had a mild case of COVID-19 are left with long-term antibody protection against future disease, according to a new study.
Metabolic hormone ‘leptin’ linked to poor vaccine response
Reduced levels of a metabolic hormone known as leptin is linked to poor vaccine antibody responses in the general population, a study has found.
Superficial relationship: Enzymes protect the skin by ignoring microbes and viruses
The human body is constantly exposed to various environmental actors, from viruses to bacteria to fungi, but most of these microbial organisms provoke little or no response from our skin, which is charged with monitoring and protecting from external da…
A novel defense mechanism for SARS-CoV-2 discovered
Scientists have discovered a novel defensive response to SARS-CoV-2 that involves the viral pattern recognition receptor RIG-I. Upregulating expression of this protein could strengthen the immune response in COPD patients.
Will COVID-19 eventually become just a seasonal nuisance?
Within the next decade, the novel coronavirus responsible for COVID-19 could become little more than a nuisance, causing no more than common cold-like coughs and sniffles. That possible future is predicted by mathematical models that incorporate lesson…
Antioxidant protein inside the cell worsens inflammation outside
A protein that provides essential protection against free radicals inside the cell provokes damaging inflammation when released outside, activating immune cells and worsening damage following a stroke, according to a new study.
Do COVID-19 vaccines care whether you’re female or male?
A researcher is studying and raising awareness about the role of sex in the efficacy of vaccines that make use of nanomedicine.