|
|
|
T cells, a type of immune cell, can impede the development and progression of multiple sclerosis in mice, according to a paper to be published in the September 2006 issue of Nature Immunology.
Many different types of T cells exist, each expressing a unique T cell receptor that helps the cell sense and react appropriately to its environment. J. Ludovic Croxford and colleagues show that a specific subset of T cells slows the onset and decreases the severity of a mouse version of human multiple sclerosis. The disease is worsened in the absence of these T cells, which block autoimmunity at least in part by triggering other immune cells to release chemical mediators that dampen the inflammatory response. Whether these T cells are involved in human autoimmune disease, and whether they can be harnessed for therapeutic intervention, remains to be determined.
Author contact:Takashi Yamamura (National Institute of Neuroscience, Tokyo, Japan)
E-mail: yamamura@ncnp.go.jp
J. Ludovic Croxford (National Institute of Neuroscience, Tokyo, Japan)
E-mail: ludo_von_crox@yahoo.co.uk Abstract available online. (C) Nature Immunology press release.
Message posted by: Trevor M. D'Souza
|
|
Variants Associated with Pediatric Allergic Disorder
Mutations in PHF6 Found in T-Cell Leukemia
Genetic Risk Variant for Urinary Bladder Cancer
Antibody Has Therapeutic Effect on Mice with ALS
Regulating P53 Activity in Cancer Cells
Anti-RNA Therapy Counters Breast Cancer Spread
Mitochondrial DNA Diversity
The Power of RNA Sequencing
‘Pro-Ageing' Therapy for Cancer?
Niche Genetics Influence Leukaemia
Molecular Biology: Clinical Promise for RNA Interference
Chemoprevention Cocktail for Colon Cancer
more news ...
|