Why we do not constantly get ill despite viruses, bacteria New research breaks with existing knowledge about how our immune system works. The new experiments have shown how the body mobilizes a hitherto unknown defense against viruses and bacteria. This also explains why we do not constantly get ill despite the viruses around us.
Immune system affects gut bacteria evolution Researchers have discovered that when the immune system of the host is compromised, the composition of the gut bacteria changes, and the pace and predictability of the process of adaptation of these bacteria are affected. This study suggests that the treatment of intestinal pathologies that result from impaired immune system, such as the inflammatory bowel disease, may require therapies based on personalized medicine.
Studying stonefish venom may help combat transplant rejection The X-ray crystal structure of the lethal factor present in stonefish venom has been solved by researchers. The discovery has provided unexpected insight into a crucial human immune response that is responsible for the failure of up to 30 percent of bone marrow transplant therapies for treating leukemia.
CDC:Recalled fruit likely caused listeria cases last summer This past summer, consumers were confronted with a series of recalls of peaches, nectarines, plums, pluots and other stone fruits potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The fruit, sourced from Wawona Packing Co., was recalled from major retailers such as ALDI, Trader Joe’s, Costco, Kroger and Walmart.. Continue Reading
Being near greened vacant lots lowers heart rates Greening vacant lots may be associated with biologic reductions in stress, according to a new study. Residents who walked near newly greened vacant lots had significantly lower heart rates compared to walking near a blighted, or neglect Continue Reading
Vitamin D helps immune cells prevent atherosclerosis, diabetes Altered signaling through the vitamin D receptor on certain immune cells may play a role in causing the chronic inflammation that leads to the combination of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. These are the most common cause of illness and death Continue Reading
Opossum-based antidote to venom from snake bites could save thousands of lives Scientists have turned to the opossum to develop a promising new and inexpensive antidote for venomous snake bites. They predict it could save thousands of lives worldwide without the side effects of current treatments. Continue Reading
Total body iron balance: Liver MRI better than biopsy Investigators have demonstrated that MR imaging of the liver is more accurate than liver biopsy in determining total body iron balance in patients with sickle cell disease and other disorders requiring blood transfusion therapy. This discovery follows the researchers earlier work in pioneering techniques to use MRI to noninvasively measure liver iron. Continue Reading
