A new role for an old immune cell may lead to novel therapies for infection and cancer
By sciencedaily.com
A new study has identified a previously undescribed role for a type of unconventional T cell with the potential to be used in the development of new therapies for infection and cancer.
The study, published today in Nature Communications, shows that Gamma Delta T cells are able to generate immunological memory against previous infections and cancerous targets.
The results challenge the textbook description of Gamma Delta T cells as 'natural born killers' with an innate ability to recognise and destroy abnormal cells.
Lead author of the study, Professor Ben Willcox from the Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy at the University of Birmingham, explains the key findings: "Instead of being 'natural born killers', we found these cells are actually quite smart. They adapt to and remember what they have encountered in life, which may include infections and pre-cancerous cells.
"This phenomenon of 'immunological memory' is what current vaccines exploit, but because Gamma Delta T cells recognise their targets in a different way, they present novel routes to generate vaccines, and also cell therapy approaches against infection and cancer."
In order to harness these "adaptive" abilities of Gamma Delta T cells, work is now required to identify the mechanism by which they recognise abnormal cells.
"We are working with other partners to understand exactly how these cells recognise signs of abnormality in infection and cancer, focussing on human cohorts. This knowledge will be crucial to help us build on the current study and explore how to develop new cell therapies and vaccines that exploit Gamma Delta T cells," adds Professor Willcox.
Source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/03/170301130506.htm
Sunday, May 10, 2026
Risperdal For Bipolar Disorder: Benefits, Dosage, And Safety
Bipolar Disorder is a condition that affects a significant number of people and can range from mild and occasional to persistent and severely disruptive. Understanding the available treatment options is an important part of managing symptoms effectively. Healthcare providers evaluate the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health profile before recommending a specific medication or combination of treatments. Antipsychotic medications are used to treat conditions characterized by psychosis, which involves a loss of contact with reality, including hallucinations, delusions, and severely disorganized thinking. Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder with psychotic features are among the primary indications for these medications. Some antipsychotics are also used in lower doses for conditions like severe anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, and dementia-related behavioral disturbances. Risperdal (risperidone) belongs to the class of medications used for antipsychotic medications and is commonly considered by clinicians evaluating treatment options for this condition. Patients looking closely at risperdal for bipolar disorder will find that the medication offers a practical option for many individuals dealing with this specific issue, particularly when first-line approaches have provided incomplete relief. As with any prescription or over-the-counter medication, proper dosing and adherence to usage guidelines are essential to getting the most benefit from Risperdal while minimizing the risk of side effects. Taking the medication as directed, at the appropriate time of day, and for the full recommended duration helps ensure therapeutic blood levels are maintained. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all other medications they are taking to check for potential interactions. For broader context on treatment options related to antipsychotic medications, https://mednewwsstoday.com/antipsychotics/ provides evidence-based information covering the full range of medications used in this therapeutic area, helping patients and caregivers compare approaches and make informed decisions alongside their medical team.
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