Journal of Immunology Archives - Sanford Burnham Prebys
Institute News

Scientists find optimal method for generating regulatory T cells to treat autoimmune disease

Authorjmoore
Date

March 11, 2016

While we normally think of T cells as recognizing invaders, their roles are more complex. For example, some T cells, called regulatory T cells (Tregs) suppress conventional T cells’ immune responses. Because conventional T cells can escape normal controls and drive autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes, as well as rejection of transplants, Tregs are increasingly viewed as a way to rein in autoimmune diseases. Continue reading “Scientists find optimal method for generating regulatory T cells to treat autoimmune disease”

Institute News

Research suggests new way to prevent HIV-associated brain injury

Authorsgammon
Date

December 5, 2014

For about 50 percent of HIV-1-infected people, things as simple as buttoning a shirt, remembering the alphabet, and handling money may become compromised by a disorder known as HIV-induced brain injury. The condition occurs when receptors and proteins in an HIV-infected immune system produce toxic substances that lead to brain- and nerve-cell death. There is currently no treatment available for the more than 600,000 affected individuals in the U.S. In a new study by Sanford-Burnham researchers, blocking CCR5—an HIV co-receptor—was found to protect against brain injury and impairment of learning and memory. The findings, reported in The Journal of Immunology, create a new approach to treating HIV-induced brain injury and may help our understanding of the potential involvement of CCR5 in other diseases of the brain. Continue reading “Research suggests new way to prevent HIV-associated brain injury”