New research presents an intriguing hypothesis aiming to explain the causal mechanism that triggers premature birth. It’s suggested a specific small protein, released by the immune system, could be a major cause of preterm birth, and inhibiting its release may prevent premature labor.
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The 2018 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to James P. Allison and Tasuku Honjo, for their efforts in the development of cancer immunotherapy. In the 1990s, the two Laureates independently developed ways to lift the brakes on the immune system to help fight cancer.
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As e-cigarettes rise in popularity, many researchers are working hard to understand the long-term implications of vaping on human health. A new small study has now found that e-cigarette vapor can damage key immune cells in the lung, suggesting vaping may be more harmful that previously suspected.
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An exciting breakthrough has revealed a new hypothesis behind the cause of glaucoma, a common degenerative eye disease. The study found a high number of T-cells present in the retinas of those suffering from the disease, suggesting the condition may have a previously undetected autoimmune cause.
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A large trial has just been launched in the UK exploring the use of stem cells for treating patients with Crohn's disease. The radical treatment involves essentially "rebooting" a patient's immune system and has been used successfully in the past for multiple sclerosis and some cancers.
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It’s long been believed that cytomegalovirus (CMV) probably weakens the immune system in older people, but now mice tests have shown that the opposite is true – somehow, the virus gives the immune system a bit of a late-stage boost.
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An experimental, non-opioid drug known as EMA401 is showing promise, and now researchers at Washington University in St Louis have found that it works by targeting a different part of the body, outside of the nervous system.
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Researchers have identified a new gene that plays a fundamental role in regulating the production of pro-inflammatory proteins. It's hoped the discovery of this previously unknown genetic mechanism will offer scientists exciting new pathways to treat a variety of diseases, from cancer to diabetes.
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A massive study spanning 30 years of data and examining a cohort of over one million people has found a strong association between persons suffering from stress disorders, including PTSD, and an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases such as arthritis and Crohn’s disease.
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A new therapy designed at Penn State has turned one of cancer's tactics against it. The team camouflaged a cancer-killing drug using cells from the tumor itself, allowing them to sneak medicine past the tumor’s defenses like a nanoscale Trojan horse and deliver a killing blow from the inside.
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