The COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, which played a big role in saving lives during the pandemic, might also have a surprising benefit: helping the immune system fight cancer. This idea came from a study that looked at how these vaccines affect patients with certain types of cancer. The study focused on pat
In the intricate world of the brain, tiny immune system proteins named C1q and C3 are stirring up trouble. Normally, these proteins are the brain's protectors. However, in epilepsy, they turn against the brain. They disrupt the brain's connections, leading to excessive brain activity and seizures.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a persistent condition that harms joints and can lead to disability. Genes are a significant factor in determining who develops RA. One particular gene, HLA-G, is crucial in managing immune responses and inflammation. Think of it as a director for the immune system, guid
Stress is often seen as a villain, but what if it has a hidden superpower? Recent studies on zebrafish reveal that stress can actually boost skin immunity. Here's how it works: when zebrafish feel stressed, a hormone called cortisol kicks in. This hormone activates a chemical called Cxcr4 through tw
Cancer can hide in the body for years, like a silent sleeper. Now, scientists have found that catching the flu or COVID-19 might wake these sleeping cancer cells up. This isn't just about feeling sick for a while. It's about how these viruses can cause trouble long after you're better. Researchers
The body's defense system against cancer is a complex battlefield. Among the soldiers are CD8+ T cells, which play a crucial role in controlling tumors and responding to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies. But not all CD8+ T cells are the same. Some are like seasoned veterans, while others a
The world of tiny organisms, or microbes, is having a big impact on cancer. These microbes live in and on our bodies, and they can change how our immune system fights cancer. The area around a tumor, called the tumor microenvironment, is a busy place. It's full of cancer cells, immune cells, and oth
Cancer is a complex puzzle, with each type having its own set of rules. To crack this code, scientists need to understand how genes and the immune system interact. This is where TCGAimmunosurv comes in. It's a tool designed to make sense of vast amounts of data from cancer patients. This tool does
Pet allergies are more common than you might think. They affect a big chunk of people worldwide. The culprits aren't the fur, but tiny proteins in an animal's skin, saliva, or urine. These allergens can stick around for weeks, even after a pet is gone. Living with pets might actually lower allergy
The immune system and man-made materials work together in a big way to help heal broken bones. Calcium phosphate (CaP) materials, like hydroxyapatite and β-tricalcium phosphate, are often used as bone replacements. They are good at helping new bone grow, but scientists are still figuring out how to
