MedWorm: Allergy & Immunology

Scientific Data Relating To Cinryze(TM) (C1 Esterase Inhibitor [Human]) Presented At International Congress Of The Southern European Allergy Society

Allergy News From Medical News Today — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

ViroPharma Incorporated (Nasdaq: VPHM) announced the presentation of two abstracts relating to Cinryze™ (C1 esterase inhibitor [human]) therapy at the First International Congress of the Southern European Allergy Society in Florence, Italy. Cinryze was approved by the U.S... (Source: Allergy News From Medical News Today)

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Manufacturing Antibodies

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

EUREKA project E! 3424 RECAN has developed a range of unique and highly specific monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies - the proteins produced in the blood which counteract bacteria, viruses or cancerous cells. This was achieved by first producing a number of recombinant proteins which are important components of cellular signalling pathways... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Inflammatory Effect On Intestinal Lining Explained By Feedback Loop

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Signals released by immune cells during a bout of inflammatory bowel disease interfere with intestinal cells' ability to regenerate. Yet people with inflammatory bowel diseases have a significantly higher risk of developing colon cancer: a hyper-activation of growth in those same intestinal cells... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Impaired CD4+ T-cell proliferation and effector function correlates with repressive histone methylation events in a mouse model of severe sepsis

European Journal of Immunology — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Immunosuppression following severe sepsis remains a significant human health concern, as long-term morbidity and mortality rates of patients who have recovered from life-threatening septic shock remain poor. Mouse models of severe sepsis indicate this immunosuppression may be partly due to alterations in myeloid cell function; however, the effect of severe sepsis on subsequent CD4+ T-cell responses remains unclear. In the present study, CD4+ T cells from mice subjected to an experimental model of severe sepsis (cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)) were analyzed in vitro. CD4+CD62L+ T cells from CLP mice exhibited reduced proliferative capacity and altered gene expression. Additionally, CD4+CD62L+ T cells from CLP mice exhibit dysregulated cytokine production after in vitro skewing with exoge...

Infection of infants with human herpesvirus type 6 may be associated with reduced allergic sensitization and T-helper type 2 development

Clinical and Experimental Allergy — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Epidemiological studies point to an inverse relationship between microbial exposure and the prevalence of allergic diseases. The underlying mechanism for this observation remains largely unknown, as well as the nature of the microbes involved. To investigate the effects of early infection with human herpesviruses (HHVs) on IgE formation and T-helper type 2 (Th2) development in infants. Serum was collected from children aged 18 months and assessed for IgE to common allergens and IgG to five common herpesviruses. Cord blood plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) were exposed to HHV type 6 in vitro and mixed with allogeneic cord blood CD4+ T cells. Cytokine levels were determined by ELISA and by flow cytometry. We found that children seropositive at 18 months of age to HHV type 6 were significant...

Association between TIM-1 gene polymorphisms and allergic rhinitis in a Han Chinese population.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that TIM-1 gene polymorphisms (-416G>C and -1454G>A) are associated with allergic rhinitis susceptibility in a Han Chinese population. PMID: 20232767 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

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Unsatisfactory asthma control: astonishing evidence from general practitioners and respiratory medicine specialists.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSION: Our findings provide one possible explanation of why asthma control levels are currently unsatisfactory in real life. PMID: 20232768 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

Immunotherapy with a Phleum pratense allergen extract induces an immune response to a grass-mix allergen extract.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Patients with rhinoconjunctivitis diagnosed using skin prick testing with a grass mix allergen extract and treated with a short course of SIT based on a single species P. pratense allergen extract are able to develop an immune response that targets not only the immunizing species, but also the grass mix allergen extract. PMID: 20232769 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

Interleukin 10 receptor alpha subunit (IL-10RA) gene polymorphism and IL-10 serum levels in Egyptian atopic patients.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSION: The IL-10RA gene SNP S138G may contribute to susceptibility to atopic diseases but serum IL-10 level is not a sensitive indicator in atopy. PMID: 20232770 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

A new symptom-based questionnaire for predicting the presence of asthma.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: The ASQ is a simple, inexpensive, and efficient pre-interview screening tool to diagnose asthma. PMID: 20232771 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

Preliminary results of a skin prick test-based study of the prevalence and clinical impact of hypersensitivity to pollen panallergens (polcalcin and profilin).

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: The clinical relevance of hypersensitivity to pollen panallergens is often limited; many allergic patients have symptoms only during the central period, suggesting primary grass sensitization. Profilin-allergic patients often do not corecognize pellitory and cypress pollen. In vivo component-resolved diagnosis of seasonal respiratory allergies is a promising approach that might lead to cost reduction and a faster definition of pollen-allergic cases. PMID: 20232772 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug hypersensitivity syndrome: a multicenter study. II. Basophil activation by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and its impact on pathogenesis.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: The most important finding of this study is that basophil activation by NSAIDs occurs not only in clinically hypersensitive patients but also, to a very variable extent and on an individual basis, in apparently normal healthy individuals who tolerate NSAIDs. The phenomenon is clearly dose-related, and hypersensitive patients seem to react to lower NSAID concentrations. PMID: 20232773 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

Efficacy of venom immunotherapy in beekeepers.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this study is the first to provide data on the experience of beekeepers who continue their activity after desensitization. Our results show that desensitization can result in a complete absence of symptoms after re-exposure to bee stings. PMID: 20232774 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

Maintenance venom immunotherapy administered at a 3-month interval preserves safety and efficacy and improves adherence.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: The study confirms that the conventional MVIT interval of 4 to 6 weeks can be extended to 3 months in most patients with no adverse events, while maintaining safety and efficacy, improving adherence, and guaranteeing safe continuation of professional activity. PMID: 20232775 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

A deletion variant of the Aspergillus fumigatus ribotoxin Asp f 1 induces an attenuated airway inflammatory response in a mouse model of sensitization.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: An easily reproducible mouse model of A fumigatus Asp f 1 sensitization was established. This model revealed alpha-sarcin delta(7-22) to be a potential candidate for immunotherapy. PMID: 20232776 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

Recurrent anaphylaxis due to lupin flour: primary sensitization through inhalation.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

We present a case of recurrent anaphylaxis due to lupin flour as a hidden food allergen with primary sensitization due to exposure to ground lupin via inhalation. We found cross-reactivity between lupin and vetchling but not other legumes. PMID: 20232777 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

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Edema of the uvula: etiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

Authors: Alcoceba E, Gonzalez M, Gaig P, Figuerola E, Auguet T, Olona M Edema of the uvula (EU) is a rare occurrence sometimes associated with angioedema, urticaria, and anaphylaxis. We analyze the causes, predisposing factors, and characteristics of EU in a group of 58 patients with a mean (SD) age of 48.2 (15.2) years over the course of a year. Of the 58 patients studied, 49 (84.5%) were male and 44 (75.9%) presented isolated EU. Thirty-two patients (55.1%) with no clear etiology were classed as idiopathic. Snoring and a high body mass index were more prevalent in these patients. A variety of probable causes were identified in 26 patients (44.9%). In this group, EU was usually accompanied by urticaria, angioedema, and anaphylaxis and there was also a greater prevalence of atopy. We f...

Monosensitivity to pangasius and tilapia caused by allergens other than parvalbumin.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

Authors: Ebo DG, Kuehn A, Bridts CH, Hilger C, Hentges F, Stevens WJ Fish allergy is one of the most common food allergies in populations where fish is a major part of the diet. Most fish-allergic patients react to the panallergen parvalbumin present in multiple fish species. Our aim was to investigate the clinical case of a patient with oral allergy syndrome to pangasius and Nile tilapia but tolerance of other fish and seafood. The temporal relationship between fish consumption and allergic symptoms, the positive skin prick tests, and the basophil activation test results for both fish species strongly supported the diagnosis of an immunoglobulin (Ig) E-mediated allergy. This was confirmed by the detection of specific IgE to 18-kDa and 45-kDa proteins in immunoblot analysis. Notably, t...

Codeine-induced generalized dermatitis and tolerance to other opioids.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

Authors: Iriarte Sotés P, López Abad R, Gracia Bara MT, Castro Murga M, Sesma Sánchez P PMID: 20232780 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

Levocetirizine-induced iridocyclitis in a patient with allergic rhinitis.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

Authors: Konstantinou GN, Ligerou M, Ligeros MP PMID: 20232781 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

Safety of a 2-visit cluster schedule of venom immunotherapy in outpatients at risk of life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

Authors: Sánchez-Machín I, Moreno C, González R, Iglesias-Souto J, Pérez E, Matheu V PMID: 20232782 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

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Skin prick test to horse should be included in the standard panel for the diagnosis of respiratory allergy.

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:20:04 +0100

Authors: Liccardi G, Salzillo A, Piccolo A, D'Amato G PMID: 20232783 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology)

RAG-1 and ATM coordinate monoallelic recombination and nuclear positioning of immunoglobulin loci

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:38:19 +0100

Nature Immunology 11, 356 (2010). doi:10.1038/ni0410-356 Author: Susannah L Hewitt, Bu Yin, Yanhong Ji, Julie Chaumeil, Katarzyna Marszalek, Jeannette Tenthorey, Giorgia Salvagiotto, Natalie Steinel, Laura B Ramsey, Jacques Ghysdael, Michael A Farrar, Barry P Sleckman, David G Schatz, Meinrad Busslinger, Craig H Bassing & Jane A Skok (Source: Nature Immunology)

RAG-1 and ATM coordinate monoallelic recombination and nuclear positioning of immunoglobulin loci

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:38:19 +0100

Nature Immunology 11, 355 (2010). doi:10.1038/ni0410-355 Author: Susannah L Hewitt, Bu Yin, Yanhong Ji, Julie Chaumeil, Katarzyna Marszalek, Jeannette Tenthorey, Giorgia Salvagiotto, Natalie Steinel, Laura B Ramsey, Jacques Ghysdael, Michael A Farrar, Barry P Sleckman, David G Schatz, Meinrad Busslinger, Craig H Bassing & Jane A Skok (Source: Nature Immunology)

Research Highlights

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:38:19 +0100

Nature Immunology 11, 287 (2010). doi:10.1038/ni0410-287 (Source: Nature Immunology)

Signal 0 for guided priming of CTLs: NKT cells do it too

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:38:19 +0100

Authors: Philippe Bousso & Matthew L Albert The cross-priming of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells requires help. The mechanism by which natural killer T cells provide such help is now characterized. (Source: Nature Immunology)

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Rolling back neutrophil adhesion

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:38:19 +0100

Nature Immunology 11, 282 (2010). doi:10.1038/ni0410-282 Author: Rodger P McEver Neutrophils and other cells secrete the pentraxin PTX3, which promotes innate immunity by binding to pathogens and activating complement. PTX3 can also limit neutrophil recruitment by inhibiting rolling on P-selectin in inflamed venules. (Source: Nature Immunology)

Quieting T cells with Slfn2

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:38:19 +0100

Authors: Maureen R Horton & Jonathan D Powell The mechanisms that enforce T cell quiescence are incompletely understood. Slfn2 has now been identified as another participant in this process, functioning as a critical regulator of T cell– and monocyte-mediated immunity. (Source: Nature Immunology)

Do NK cells always need a license to kill?

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:38:19 +0100

Authors: Mario-Ernesto Cruz-Munoz & André Veillette The ability of natural killer cells to eliminate abnormal cells has been shown to be enhanced by triggering of certain inhibitory receptors during their maturation. New data show that sometimes the opposite can happen. (Source: Nature Immunology)

The biological century: coming to terms with risk in the life sciences

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:38:19 +0100

Discussion and mitigation of these risks by life scientists must be encouraged. (Source: Nature Immunology)

Battening down the hatches

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:38:19 +0100

Nature Immunology 11, 273 (2010). doi:10.1038/ni0410-273 As the fallout from 'Climategate' rumbles on, the scientific community needs to stick to what it is best at: the gathering, interpretation and dissemination of accurate data. (Source: Nature Immunology)

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Study Details Machinery Of Immune Protection Against Inflammatory Diseases Like Colitis

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Scientists report a protein made by a gene already associated with a handful of human inflammatory immune diseases plays a pivotal role in protecting the intestinal tract from colitis. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital investigators led the research, which points to possible new strategies for combating colitis... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Study Shows Prevenar 13 Is Immunogenic In Young Children Previously Vaccinated With Prevenar

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

According to results from a Phase III safety and immunogenicity study presented today, Prevenar 13 (Pneumococcal polysaccharide conjugate vaccine, [13-valent, adsorbed]) was shown to be immunogenic and generally well tolerated in healthy young children who had received at least three prior doses of Prevenar (Pneumococcal Saccharide Conjugated Vaccine, Adsorbed)... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Dr Miriam Stoppard Speaks On Baby And Child Nutrition, England

Allergy News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Visitors to a conference on food allergies were given an insight into the life of leading children's doctor and broadcaster, Dr. Miriam Stoppard, at the University of Portsmouth yesterday... (Source: Allergy News From Medical News Today)

Prenatal Stress May Boost Baby's Asthma Risk

MedicineNet Allergies General — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Prenatal Stress May Boost Baby's Asthma RiskCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/18/2010 12:10:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 3/19/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Allergies General)

The Immune System May Offer Method For Stopping Infection-Caused Inflammation By Targeting Blood Vessels

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Treating virulent influenza, sepsis, and other potentially deadly infections long has focused on looking for ways to kill viruses and bacteria. But new research from the University of Utah and Utah State University shows that modulating the body's own overeager inflammatory response to infection may help save more lives... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

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Fate Mapping Reveals Separate Origins of T Cells and Myeloid Lineages in the Thymus

Immunity — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 05:00:06 +0100

Susan M. Schlenner, Vikas Madan, Katrin Busch, Annette Tietz, Carolin Läufle, Celine Costa, Carmen Blum, Hans Jörg Fehling, Hans-Reimer Rodewald. The cellular differentiation pathway originating from the bone marrow leading to early T lymphocytes remains poorly understood. The view that T cells branch off from a lymphoid-restricted pathway .... (Source: Immunity)

Astrocyte-Restricted Ablation of Interleukin-17-Induced Act1-Mediated Signaling Ameliorates Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

Immunity — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 05:00:06 +0100

Zizhen Kang, Cengiz Zubeyir Altuntas, Muhammet Fatih Gulen, Caini Liu, Natalia Giltiay, Hongwei Qin, Liping Liu, Wen Qian, Richard M. Ransohoff, Cornelia Bergmann, Stephen Stohlman, Vincent K. Tuohy, Xiaoxia Li. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) secreted by T helper 17 (Th17) cells is essential in the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). However, it remains unclear how IL-17-mediated signa.... (Source: Immunity)

The NLRP3 Inflammasome Protects against Loss of Epithelial Integrity and Mortality during Experimental Colitis

Immunity — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 05:00:06 +0100

Md. Hasan Zaki, Kelli L. Boyd, Peter Vogel, Michael B. Kastan, Mohamed Lamkanfi, Thirumala-Devi Kanneganti. Decreased expression of the Nlrp3 protein is associated with susceptibility to Crohn's disease. However, the role of Nlrp3 in colitis has not been characterized. Nlrp3 interacts with the adaptor p.... (Source: Immunity)

Interferon-γ Regulates Intestinal Epithelial Homeostasis through Converging β-Catenin Signaling Pathways

Immunity — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 05:00:06 +0100

We report here that interferon-γ (IFN-γ) regulates the crucial homeostatic functions of.... (Source: Immunity)

Perinatal nutrition and immunity to infection

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Jones KDJ, Berkley JA, Warner JO. Perinatal Nutrition and Immunity to Infection.Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010.© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S Epidemiological data provide strong evidence for a relationship between undernutrition and life-threatening infection in infants and children. However, the mechanisms that underlie this relationship are poorly understood. Through foetal life, infancy and childhood, the immune system undergoes a process of functional maturation. The adequacy of this process is dependent on environmental factors, and there is accumulating evidence of the impact of pre- and post-natal nutrition in this regard. This review outlines the impact of nutrition during foetal and infant development on the capacity to mount immune responses to infection. It provides an overview of ...

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Cord blood molecular biomarkers of eosinophilopoiesis: Kinetic analysis of GATA-1, MBP1 and IL-5Rα mRNA expression

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Ellis AK, Ackerman SJ, Crawford L, Du J, Bedi R, Denburg JA. Cord blood molecular biomarkers of eosinophilopoiesis: Kinetic analysis of GATA-1, MBP1 and IL-5R[alpha] mRNA expression.Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010.© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S Eosinophil/basophil (Eo/B) progenitor phenotype and function in cord blood (CB) are associated with atopic risk at birth and infant clinical outcomes. Molecular analyses of eosinophil[ndash]basophil differentiation events could identify clinically predictive biomarkers. To determine CB kinetic patterns of Eo/B lineage-associated gene expression (GATA-1, MBP1 and IL-5R[alpha]) after IL-5 stimulation, CB non-adherent mononuclear cells were isolated from random fresh and frozen samples and incubated in the presence of recombinant human interleukin-5. Some ...

Pediatric common variable immunodeficiency: Immunologic and phenotypic associations with switched memory B cells

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

We examined the relationship between switched memory B cells and clinical and immunologic manifestations of CVID in a pediatric population. Forty-five patients were evaluated. Patients were categorized as Group I ( (Source: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology)

Prevalence of asthma and allergic diseases in primary school children in Edirne, Turkey, two surveys 10 years apart

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Selcuk ZT, Demir AU, Tabakoglu E, Caglar T. Prevalence of asthma and allergic diseases in primary school children in Edirne, Turkey, two surveys 10 years apart.Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010.© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S To assess change in prevalence and risk factors of asthma and allergic diseases among primary school children in rural and urban parts of Edirne, Turkey, a series of cross-sectional studies were conducted in 1994 and 2004. A questionnaire was administered to the parents of primary school children aged 7[ndash]12, in urban and rural parts of Edirne, Turkey (5412 in 1994 and 5735 in 2004). Response rates in 1994 and 2004 were 84% and 82.5%, respectively. There were significant differences between the age distribution, urban habitation (1994: 70.1%, 2004: 75.8%, p < 0.001), pas...

Lower interleukin-8 levels in airway aspirates from breastfed infants with acute bronchiolitis

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Dixon D-L, Griggs KM, Forsyth KD, Bersten AD. Lower interleukin-8 levels in airway aspirates from breastfed infants with acute bronchiolitis.Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010.© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/SJournal compilation © 2010 Blackwell Munksgaard Breastfeeding during the first 12 months of life confers demonstrable immunologic benefit against infective pathogens, including those of the respiratory tract. However, the mechanism by which the ingestion of human milk modifies immunologic defense against such pathogens remains elusive. Bronchiolitis, caused predominantly by respiratory syncytial virus, is the most common clinical presentation of severe upper respiratory illness requiring hospitalization in infants and remains one of the developed world's leading causes of infant mortality and ...

Specific profiles of house dust mite sensitization in children with asthma and in children with eczema

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Shek LP, Chong AR, Soh SE, Cheong N, Teo ASM, Yi FC, Giam YC, Chua KY, Van Bever HP. Specific profiles of house dust mite sensitization in children with asthma and in children with eczema.Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010.© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S Sensitization to house dust mites (HDM) is highly prevalent among the young atopic population in Singapore. Previously published data suggest that individuals with skin allergies show preferred sensitization to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus while individuals with pure respiratory allergies show preferred sensitization to Blomia tropicalis. The aim of our study was to compare the sensitization profiles between children with asthma and those with eczema to D. pteronyssinus and B. tropicalis and their specific allergens. A total of 60 children, 30 w...

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Indoor allergen exposure, sensitization, and development of asthma in a high-risk birth cohort

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Carlsten C, Dimich-Ward H, Becker AB, Ferguson A, Chan HW, DyBuncio A, Chan-Yeung M. Indoor allergen exposure, sensitization, and development of asthma in a high-risk birth cohort.Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010.© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S Contradictory findings have been observed for the association of house dust mite (HDM), cat, and dog allergen exposure with sensitization and asthma. We sought to determine the relationship between exposures to these allergens, at various points during early childhood, and specific sensitization and asthma at age 7 in a high-risk birth cohort. As part of a multi-faceted Canadian intervention program for the primary prevention of asthma in high-risk infants, children were assessed by pediatric allergists at age 7 for asthma and underwent allergy skin prick...

Serum levels of heavy metals in childhood eczema and skin diseases: Friends or foes

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Hon K-LE, Wang SS, Hung ECW, Lam HS, Lui HHK, Chow C-M, Ching GKW, Fok T-F, Ng P-C, Leung T-F. Serum levels of heavy metals in childhood eczema and skin diseases: Friends or foes.Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010.© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S The incidence of eczema has been increasing in developed countries. Environmental and hygiene factors have been incriminated. Although air and food pollution with heavy metals have been considered as possible culprits, these factors have never been investigated in Hong Kong. To evaluate if quality of life and eczema severity are associated with abnormal serum levels of six common heavy metals, namely, cadmium, lead, mercury, selenium, copper and zinc. Serum or whole blood was taken for measurement of six heavy metals from patients referred to the pediatric...

Properdin in childhood and its association with wheezing and atopy

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Staley KG, Kuehni CE, Strippoli MPF, McNally T, Silverman M, Stover C. Properdin in childhood and its association with wheezing and atopy.Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010.© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S Properdin, a serum glycoprotein, is an important component of innate immunity, the only known positive regulator of complement, acting as an initiation point for alternative pathway activation. As an X-linked protein, we hypothesized that properdin may play a modulatory role in the pathogenesis of viral wheeze in children, which tends to be more common and more severe in boys. We aimed to determine properdin levels in a community-based paediatric sample, and to assess whether levels of properdin were associated with childhood wheeze phenotypes and atopy. We studied 137 school-children aged 8[ndas...

Immunologic analysis and serum heavy metal levels in exacerbated Tourette syndrome

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Hsieh M-Y, Lee W-I, Lin K-L, Hung P-C, Chou M-L, Chang M-Y, Huang J-L, Wang H-S. Immunologic analysis and serum heavy metal levels in exacerbated Tourette syndrome. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010.© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S Tourette syndrome (TS) is a childhood-onset and relapsing disorder characterized by involuntary simple or complex tics and high co-morbidity with behavioral anomalies. Its pathophysiologic mechanisms remain unclarified. We investigated immunologic alternations and serum heavy metal levels in patients with TS to elucidate the unclarified mechanisms. Based on the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale, fifteen TS subjects (four females) aged 8[ndash]34 (mean: 15.4 ± 6.7) in exacerbation with mean severity score 40.3 ± 14.6 were enrolled in this study. The immunoglobulin levels ...

Sensing the outside world: TSLP regulates barrier immunity

Nature Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Steven F Ziegler & David Artis (Source: Nature Immunology)

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Differential effects of Paclitaxel on dendritic cell function

BMC Immunology — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The effect of paclitaxel on human monocyte derived DC is complex, but in the clinical context of patients receiving preloaded and matured DC vaccines, its immunostimulatory potential and resistance to direct cytotoxicity by paclitaxel would indicate potential advantages to co-administration with vaccines. (Source: BMC Immunology)

Research Team Demonstrate For The First Time The Important Role Of 2 Proteins In The Process Of Inflammation And Colon Cancer

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 13:00:00 +0100

Every day, our gut comes in contact with bacteria, inducing an inflammatory response that is tolerated and controlled. Sometimes the control of inflammation is lost and this can lead to inflammatory bowel disease that may predispose to colon cancer... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Also In Global Health News: Vaccine Suspension; E. Africa Food Security; GMOs; Somali President Responds; China's Food Security

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 13:00:00 +0100

WHO Suspends Distribution, Purchase Of Pentavalent Vaccine A WHO spokeswoman announced Wednesday that the agency "has suspended the distribution and purchase of the Shan5 vaccine, produced by Sanofi-Aventis's Indian unit Shantha Biotechnics, pending a quality investigation," after several reports of white sediment on the walls of the vaccine vials, the Wall Street Journal reports... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Nature News Examines GAVI Alliance's Budget Gap

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 13:00:00 +0100

Nature News examines GAVI Alliance's multi-billion-dollar budget shortfall ahead of a donors meeting in The Hague on March 25-26... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

New Path To Therapeutic HIV Vaccine Discovered By Studying Immunologic Profile Of Rare HIV Controllers

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

Based on encouraging results from pre-clinical research, Bionor Immuno AS today announced intentions to take the therapeutic and potentially preventative HIV-vaccine candidate Vacc-C5 into a Phase I/II clinical trial. The research results indicate that Vacc-C5 may induce a protective antibody response in HIV patients similar to that found in patients with slow or non-progressing disease... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

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Allergic To Aspirin, Penicillin, Other Medicines? Montefiore Program Helps Patients With Adverse Drug Reactions

Allergy News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

A Westchester patient takes aspirin for pain, but develops rashes and hives. A Bronx patient with a gastrointestinal problem caused by bacteria is prescribed penicillin, then passes out. A Bronx woman is given a contrast dye for an internal diagnostic exam, then her skin peels off... (Source: Allergy News From Medical News Today)

New Research By VGTI Florida Science Director Demonstrates How HIV Disables The Immune System

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

New research conducted by the scientific director for VGTI Florida and his colleagues at the University of Montreal, in collaboration with scientists from the NIH and the McGill University Hospital center, may soon lead to an expansion of the drug arsenal used to fight HIV... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

New TB Booster Shows Promise

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

A booster shot appears to improve tuberculosis (TB) resistance in previously vaccinated adults, according to new research in South Africa. The study has been published online ahead of print publication in the American Thoracic Society's American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. "The world urgently needs new, better vaccines against TB," said Willem Hanekom, M.B.Ch.B... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Protecting Patients Via Health-Care Worker Vaccination

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Healthcare personnel influenza immunization rates have remained low, despite recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other leading healthcare organizations that all healthcare personnel receive annual flu vaccines. Experts say these levels are perilous. Increasing vaccination rates substantially improves patient safety, lowering flu deaths by 40 percent... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Stress During Pregnancy Linked to Higher Risk for Asthma in Offspring

Medscape Allergy Headlines — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 05:30:45 +0100

In an inner-city cohort, prenatal stress was associated with changes in innate and adaptive immune responses that could affect the expression of allergic disease. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Allergy Headlines)

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Coregulation mapping based on individual phenotypic variation in response to virus infection

Immunome Research — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: MDS mapping based on correlation in conjunction with TF enrichment analysis represents a useful computational method to generate predictions underlying gene coregulation across a population. (Source: Immunome Research)

Association of IL-4RA single nucleotide polymorphisms, HLA-DR and HLA-DQ in children with Alternaria-sensitive moderate-severe asthma

Clinical and Molecular Allergy — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

We examined HLA-DR and HLA-DQ frequencies in Alternaria-sensitive asthmatic by HLA typing. To determine ratios of Th1/Th2 Alternaria-specific T-cells, cultures were stimulated in media alone, Alternaria alternata extract and Alt a1. Sensitivity to IL-4 stimulation was measured by up-regulation of CD23 on B cells. Results: Children with Alternaria-sensitive moderate-severe asthma trended to have increased sensitivities to Cladosporium (46% versus 35%), to Aspergillus (43% versus 28%), and significantly increased sensitivities to trees (78% versus 57%) and to weeds (68% versus 48%). The IL-4RA ile75val polymorphism was significantly increased in Alternaria-sensitive moderate-severe asthmatics, 83% (0.627 allele frequency) compared to Alternaria-sensitive mild asthmatics, 57% (0.388 allele fr...

Anti-infective activity of apolipoprotein domain derived peptides in vitro: identification of novel antimicrobial peptides related to apolipoprotein B with anti-HIV activity

BMC Immunology — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These data suggest that further antimicrobial peptides may be obtained using human apolipoprotein sequences, selecting regions with either amphipathic alpha-helical structure, or those linked to receptor-binding regions. The finding that an amphipathic alpha-helical region of apolipoprotein J has antiviral activity comparable with that for the previously reported apolipoprotein AI derived peptide 18A, suggests that full-length apolipoprotein J may also have such activity, as has been reported for full-length apolipoprotein AI. Although the strength of the anti-infective activity of the sequences identified was limited, this could be increased substantially by developing related mutant peptides. Indeed the apolipoprotein B-derived peptide mutants uncovered by the present study ...

Also In Global Health News: Profiles Of CDC, USAID Leaders; HIV/AIDS In Kenya; Food Aid In Tanzania; Hunger In North Korea; More

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100

New York Times Features Profiles Of USAID's Shah, CDC's Frieden The New York Times examines the recent changes at the CDC - "considered one of the world's premier public health agencies, responsible for tracking the spread of infectious disease, distributing vaccines and monitoring the causes of sickness and deaths" - since Director Thomas Frieden took ove... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

HIV Vaccine Strategy Expands Immune Responses

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

Two teams of researchers including Los Alamos National Laboratory theoretical biologists Bette Korber, Will Fischer, Sydeaka Watson, and James Szinger have announced an HIV vaccination strategy that has been shown to expand the breadth and depth of immune responses in rhesus monkeys. Rhesus monkeys provide the best animal model currently available for testing HIV vaccines... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

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It's Time To Reassess Where We Stand With An HIV Vaccine As Numbers Infected Rise In UN Study

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

According to a recent United Nations study, HIV infection rates among high-risk groups such as gays, drug users and sex workers are on the rise around the world. U.N. AIDS agency chief Michel Sidibe is saying the increase may be due to worsening discrimination against these groups in certain countries. In the U.S... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Black Children At Lower Risk Of Shingles After Chickenpox Vaccine; Genetic Explanation Is Most Likely, Researchers Think

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Black children are less likely than white or Asian children to develop shingles (herpes zoster) after receiving the varicella vaccine to prevent chickenpox, reports a study in the March issue of The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Revolade(R) (Eltrombopag) Receives European Marketing Authorisation For The Treatment Of Chronic Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) announced that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has granted marketing authorisation for Revolade® (eltrombopag), a once-daily oral treatment for adults with chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Identification Of Gene That May Play A Key Role In Atherosclerosis And Other Diseases

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

To understand the role of inflammation in cardiovascular and other diseases, it is essential to identify and characterize genes that induce an inflammatory response in the body -- and the genes that regulate them... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Identification of Immunodominant B- and T-cell Combined Epitopes in Outer Membrane Lipoproteins LipL32 and LipL21 of Leptospira interrogans.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we identified B- and T-cell combined epitopes within LipL32 and LipL21 to further develop a novel vaccine. By using a computer prediction algorithm, two B- and T-cell combined epitopes of LipL21 and four of LipL32 were predicted. All of the predicted epitopes were expressed in a phage display system. Four epitopes, specified as LipL2197-112 and LipL21176-184 of LipL21 as well as LipL32133-160 and LipL32221-247 of LipL32 were selected as antigens by Western blot and ELISA assay. These selected epitopes were also recognized by CD4(+) T lymphocytes derived from LipL21- or LipL32-immunized BALB/c (H-2(d)) mice, and mainly polarized the immune response towards a Th1 phenotype. The identification of epitopes which have both B- and T-cell immune reactivities is of value for studyin...

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A Multiplexed Serologic Assay for Nine Anogenital HPV Types (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58).

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Opalka D, Matys K, Bojczuk P, Green T, Gesser R, Saah A, Haupt R, Dutko F, Esser MT A multiplexed human papillomavirus (HPV) immunoassay has been developed for the detection of human IgG antibodies to HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58 virus-like particles (VLP) types in serum following natural infection or immunization with VLP-based vaccines. The VLP antigens are covalently conjugated to carboxyl Luminex microspheres using a carbodiimide chemistry. Antibody titers are determined in a direct binding format, where an IgG1-4 specific, phycoerythrin (PE)-labeled monoclonal antibody (HP6043), binds to human serum IgG antibodies. Pooled sera from rhesus macaques immunized with a 9-valent VLP-based vaccine serves as the reference standard. The overall specificity of the...

Identification of Cytokines in Whole Blood for the Differential Diagnosis of Tuberculosis vs Pneumonia.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Su WL, Perng WC, Huang CH, Yang CY, Wu CP, Chang FY, Chen JH Differentiating tuberculosis (TB) from pneumonia remains a challenge. We evaluated the cytokine profiles of whole blood cells from patients with TB (n=38), pneumonia (n=30), and healthy individuals (n=30) before and after stimulating cells with ESAT-6 or LPS. When the percent change in the levels of interferon (IFN)-gamma after stimulation with ESAT-6 was used in receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis (a graphic method to determine the diagnostic accuracy of a test) to identify a patient with TB, the area under the curve (AUC) was 90.4%; and a cut-off point of 3.59% change produced a corresponding sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of over 80%. When the change in IFN-gamma after stimulation of blood ce...

74-kiloDalton Immunodominant Antigen of the Pathogenic Oomycete Pythium insidiosum is a Putative Exo-1,3-ss Glucanase.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Krajaejun T, Keeratijarut A, Sriwanichrak K, Lowhnoo T, Rujirawat T, Petchthong T, Yingyong W, Kalambaheti T, Smithipat N, Juthayothin T, Sullivan TD The oomycetous, fungus-like, aquatic organism Pythium insidiosum is the causative agent of pythiosis, a life-threatening infectious disease of humans and animals, living in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Common sites of infection are the arteries, eyes, cutaneous/subcutaneous tissue and the gastrointestinal tract. Diagnosis of pythiosis is time-consuming and difficult. Radical excision of infected organs is the main treatment for pythiosis because conventional antifungal drugs are ineffective. An immunotherapeutic vaccine prepared from P. insidiosum crude extract showed limited efficacy in the treatment of pythiosis...

One-Year Duration of Immunity Induced by Vaccination with a Canine Lyme Disease Bacterin.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lafleur RL, Callister SM, Dant JC, Jobe DA, Lovrich SD, Warner TF, Wasmoen TL, Schell RF Laboratory-reared beagles were vaccinated with placebo or a bacterin comprised of Borrelia burgdorferi S-1-10 and ospA(-)/ospB(-) B. burgdorferi 50772 and challenged after one year with B. burgdorferi-infected Ixodes scapularis ticks. In the placebo-recipients, spirochetes were recovered from 9 (60%) skin biopsies collected after 1 month, and the organisms persisted in the skin thereafter. Ten (67%) dogs also developed joint infection (3 dogs), lameness or synovitis (7 dogs), or B. burgdorferi-specific antibodies (8 dogs). In the vaccine-recipients, spirochetes were recovered from 6 (40%) skin biopsies collected after 1 month. However, subsequent biopsies were negative, and the dogs failed...

Complement-dependent cytotoxicity assay for differentiating West Nile virus from Japanese encephalitis virus infections in horses.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This study demonstrated the utility of this assay for differentiating WNV from JEV infections in horses. PMID: 20237201 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Clinical and Vaccine Immunology)

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Consequences of interference of milk with chemoattractants for ELISA quantification.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Rainard P Concentrations of the chemoattractants CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3, CXCL8 and C5a in milk were reduced by the preparation of milk whey by high-speed centrifugation or with rennet. About half of the chemoattractants (35 to 65%) was associated with the casein micelle sediment, except when whey was prepared by acidification. Consequently, quantification of chemoattractants should be preferentially carried out with skimmed milk samples, or acidic whey samples whenever whey is needed. Interference of milk or milk whey with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) used to quantify the chemoattractants was moderate, as long as tetramethylbenzidine (TMB), not ABTS, was used as the substrate of peroxidase. These considerations will help to assess more precisely a component of ...

Immunotherapy Can Reject Intracranial Tumor Cells without Damaging the Brain despite Sharing the Target Antigen.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bridle BW, Li J, Jiang S, Chang R, Lichty BD, Bramson JL, Wan Y Although vaccines targeting tissue differentiation Ags represent a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy, the risk of triggering autoimmune damage to normal tissues remains to be determined. Immunizing against a melanoma-associated Ag, dopachrome tautomerase (DCT), which normal melanocytes and glial cells also express, allowed concurrent analysis of autoimmune consequences in multiple tissues. We show that vaccination with recombinant adenovirus expressing DCT elicited a strong CTL response in C57BL/6 mice, leading to protection against intracranial challenge with B16-F10 melanoma cells. Both histological analysis and behavioral testing indicated that there was no evidence of neuropathology in vaccinated ani...

Disrupting the Intermolecular Self-Association of Itk Enhances T Cell Signaling.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we show that full-length Itk self-associates in an intermolecular fashion. Using this information, we have designed an Itk variant that exhibits reduced self-association but maintains normal binding to exogenous ligands via each of its regulatory domains. When expressed in insect cells, the Itk substrate phospholipase Cgamma1 is phosphorylated more efficiently by the Itk variant than by wild-type Itk. Furthermore, expression of the Itk variant in primary murine T cells induced higher ERK activation and increased calcium flux following TCR stimulation compared with that of wild-type Itk. Our results indicate that the Tec kinase Itk is negatively regulated by intermolecular clustering and that disruption of this clustering leads to increased Itk kinase activity following TCR s...

Access to the Spleen Microenvironment through Lymph Shows Local Cytokine Production, Increased Cell Flux, and Altered Signaling of Immune Cells during Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Inflammation.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Semaeva E, Tenstad O, Skavland J, Enger M, Iversen PO, Gjertsen BT, Wiig H The spleen is involved in fluid volume regulation, immune responses, and hematopoiesis. Yet, the composition of the fluid phase within the spleen microenviroment, the migratory routes of lymphocytes as well as the splenic response to bacterial endotoxin is incomplete. To address these issues, we isolated postnodal lymph in rats by cannulating an efferent lymphatic draining the spleen, and assessed the secretion of signaling substances during a septic response induced by LPS. Spleen lymph flow increased 8-fold after LPS exposure. The spleen exhibited a permeable microvasculature with low sieving of macromolecules that was absent after exposure to LPS. Furthermore, after LPS exposure the spleen contribute...

Polycomb Group Gene Product Ring1B Regulates Th2-Driven Airway Inflammation through the Inhibition of Bim-Mediated Apoptosis of Effector Th2 Cells in the Lung.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Suzuki A, Iwamura C, Shinoda K, Tumes DJ, Kimura MY, Hosokawa H, Endo Y, Horiuchi S, Tokoyoda K, Koseki H, Yamashita M, Nakayama T Polycomb group (PcG) gene products regulate the maintenance of homeobox gene expression in Drosophila and vertebrates. In the immune system, PcG molecules control cell cycle progression of thymocytes, Th2 cell differentiation, and the generation of memory CD4 T cells. In this paper, we extended the study of PcG molecules to the regulation of in vivo Th2 responses, especially allergic airway inflammation, by using conditional Ring1B-deficient mice with a CD4 T cell-specific deletion of the Ring1B gene (Ring1B(-/-) mice). In Ring1B(-/-) mice, CD4 T cell development appeared to be normal, whereas the differentiation of Th2 cells but not Th1 cells was ...

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Lck Mediates Th2 Differentiation through Effects on T-bet and GATA-3.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kemp KL, Levin SD, Bryce PJ, Stein PL The Src family kinase Lck has been shown to be crucial in T cell signaling and development. However, its role in Th effector functions is not well understood. Lck has previously been shown to play a role in the cytokine expression of Th2 cells, but the mechanism by which Lck influences Th2 effector functions is unknown. Using a mouse model, we report that Lck is important in regulating the expression of IL-4 in Th2 skewed cells but is not as necessary for the expression of Th2 cytokines IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13. Furthermore, in the absence of Lck, T-bet and GATA-3 expression is aberrant. Moreover, this atypical expression pattern of T-bet and GATA-3 correlates with increased histone 3 acetylation at the Ifng locus and production of the Th1 c...

Chemokine Receptor 4 Plays a Key Role in T Cell Recruitment into the Airways of Asthmatic Patients.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This study also provides wider proof of concept for using tissue explants to study immunomodulatory drugs for asthma. PMID: 20237293 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Journal of Immunology)

An Autoimmune Response to Odorant Binding Protein 1a Is Associated with Dry Eye in the Aire-Deficient Mouse.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we show that the Aire-deficient mouse represents a new tool to investigate autoimmune dacryoadenitis and keratoconjunctivitis sicca, features of SS. Previous work in the Aire-deficient mouse suggested a role for alpha-fodrin, a ubiquitous Ag, in the disease process. Using an unbiased biochemical approach, however, we have identified a novel lacrimal gland autoantigen, odorant binding protein 1a, targeted by the autoimmune response. This novel autoantigen is expressed in the thymus in an Aire-dependent manner. The results from our study suggest that defects in central tolerance may contribute to SS and provide a new and clinically relevant model to investigate the pathogenic mechanisms in lacrimal gland autoimmunity and associated ocular surface sequelae. PMID: 20237294 [...

Lysophosphatidylcholine Increases Neutrophil Bactericidal Activity by Enhancement of Azurophil Granule-Phagosome Fusion via Glycine{middle dot}GlyR{alpha}2/TRPM2/p38 MAPK Signaling.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study we show that LPC enhancement of neutrophil bactericidal activity is dependent on glycine, and is mediated by translocation of intracellularly located glycine receptor (GlyR) alpha2 to the plasma membrane, and subsequent increase in azurophil granule-phagosome fusion/elastase release. LPC induced GlyRalpha2-mediated [Cl(-)](i) increase, leading to transient receptor potential melastatin (TRPM)2-mediated Ca(2+) influx. Studies using human embryonic kidney 293 cells heterologously expressing TRPM2 and neutrophils showed that TRPM2 channel activity is sensitive to [Cl(-)](i). Finally, LPC induced p38 MAPK phosphorylation in an extracellular calcium/glycine dependent manner. SB203580, a p38 MAPK inhibitor, blocked LPC-induced enhancement in Lucifer yellow uptake, azurophil granule...

Ontogeny of Stromal Organizer Cells during Lymph Node Development.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we show that the inguinal LN anlagen in mouse embryos developed from mesenchymal cells surrounding the lymph sacs, spherical structures of endothelial cells that bud from veins. Using inguinal and mesenteric LNs (mLNs), we provide evidence supporting a two-step maturation model for stromal cells: first, ICAM-1(-)VCAM-1(-) mesenchymal precursor cells become ICAM-1(int)VCAM-1(int) cells, in a process independent of LTi cells and lymphotoxin beta receptor (LTbetaR) signaling. The second step involves the maturation of ICAM-1(int)VCAM-1(int) cells to ICAM-1(high)VCAM-1(high) mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1(+) organizer cells and depends on both LTi cells and LTbetaR. Addition of alphaLTbetaR agonist to LN organ cultures was sufficient to induce ICAM-1(int)VCAM-1(int) ...

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Adoptive Transfer of Tumor-Specific Tc17 Effector T Cells Controls the Growth of B16 Melanoma in Mice.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Garcia-Hernandez MD, Hamada H, Reome JB, Misra SK, Tighe MP, Dutton RW In vitro generated OVA-specific IL-17-producing CD8 T effector cells (Tc17) from OT-1 mice, adoptively transferred into B16-OVA tumor-bearing mice, controlled tumor growth in early and late stage melanoma. IL-17, TNF, and IFN-gamma from the Tc17 effectors all played a role in an enhanced recruitment of T cells, neutrophils, and macrophages to the tumor. In addition, Tc17 cells and recently recruited, activated neutrophils produced further chemokines, including CCL3, CCL4, CCL5, CXCL9, and CXCL10, responsible for the attraction of type 1 lymphocytes (Th1 and Tc1) and additional neutrophils. Neutrophils were rapidly attracted to the tumor site by an IL-17 dependent mechanism, but at later stages the induction...

An imbalance in mucosal cytokine profile causes transient intestinal inflammation following an animal's first exposure to faecal bacteria and antigens

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This study examined the effects of faecal bacteria and antigen exposure on the intestinal mucosal and systemic immune system in healthy axenic mice. Axenic wild-type mice were inoculated orally with a crude faecal slurry solution derived from conventionally raised mice and were analysed prior to and then at days 3, 7, 14 and 28 post-treatment. Ingestion of faecal slurry resulted in a transient, early onset of proinflammatory interferon (IFN)-[gamma], tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-[alpha] and interleukin (IL)-17 response that was maximal at day 3. In contrast, the transient release of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-4 occurred later and was maximal at day 7. Both responses subsided by day 14. This early cytokine imbalance was associated with a brief rise in colonic and caecal hi...

Maternal Death Following Cardiopulmonary Collapse After Delivery: Amniotic Fluid Embolism or Septic Shock Due to Intrauterine Infection?

American Journal of Reproductive Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion We propose that subclinical intraamniotic infection may be a cause of postpartum cardiovascular collapse and DIC and resemble AFE. Thus, some patients with the clinical diagnosis of AFE may have infection/systemic inflammation as a mechanism of disease. These observations have implications for the understanding of the mechanisms of disease of patients who develop cardiovascular collapse and DIC, frequently attributed to AFE. It may be possible to identify a subset of patients who have biochemical and immunological evidence of systemic inflammation at the time of admission, and before a catastrophic event occurs. (Source: American Journal of Reproductive Immunology)

Women with multiple implantation failures and recurrent pregnancy losses have increased peripheral blood T cell activation

American Journal of Reproductive Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion Women with MIFs or RPLs have increased T cell activation in peripheral blood lymphocytes, and T cell suppressor activation seems to be associated with decreased Th1 immunity. Further studies on T cell activation may elucidate molecular mechanisms controlling Th1 effectors. (Source: American Journal of Reproductive Immunology)

Governing the Invasive Trophoblast: Current Aspects on Intra- and Extracellular Regulation

American Journal of Reproductive Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Citation Fitzgerald JS, Germeyer A, Huppertz B, Jeschke U, Knöfler M, Moser G, Scholz C, Sonderegger S, Toth B, Markert UR. Governing the invasive trophoblast: current aspects on intra- and extracellular regulation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010 This review summarizes several aspects especially of regulating factors governing trophoblast invasion. Those include the composition of the extracellular matrix containing a variety of matrix metalloproeinases and their inhibitors, but also intracellular signals. Furthermore, a newly described trophoblast subtype, the endoglandular trophoblast, is presented. Its presence may provide a possible mechanism for opening and connecting uterine glands into the intervillous space. Amongst others, two intracellular signalling pathways are crucial for regulatio...

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Elevated NK Cell Cytotoxicity, CD158a Expression in NK Cells and Activated T Lymphocytes in Peripheral Blood of Women with IVF Failures

American Journal of Reproductive Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Citation Chernyshov VP, Sudoma IO, Dons'koi BV, Kostyuchyk AA, Masliy YV. Elevated NK cell cytotoxicity, CD158a expression in NK cells and activated T lymphocytes in peripheral blood of women with IVF failures. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010Problem The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of elevated natural killer cytotoxicity (NKc) in women with multiple implantation failures (IF) in vitro fertilization[ndash]embryo transfer (IVF[ndash]ET) cycles.Methods of study Seventy-nine antiphospholipid antibodies-negative women with IF including 33 women with elevated NKc were selected for investigation. K-562 cell line was used to evaluate NKc. Lymphocyte subsets, intracellular cytokines [interferon (IFN)-[gamma], interleukin (IL)-4, tumour necrosis factor, IL-10], expression of activating marker...

First Successful Pregnancy after Addition of Enoxaparin to Sildenafil and Etanercept Immunotherapy in Woman with Fifteen Failed IVF Cycles – Case Report

American Journal of Reproductive Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Combination therapy that includes a heparin may allow successful IVF outcome and this issue merits further study. (Source: American Journal of Reproductive Immunology)

Evaluation of thyroglobulin expression in murine reproductive organs during pregnancy

American Journal of Reproductive Immunology — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion It is likely that antithyroglobulin antibodies have no direct detrimental effect on such organs in patients with thyroid autoimmunity suffering from recurrent abortion. (Source: American Journal of Reproductive Immunology)

Interrupting the Cough Reflex in Asthma

Medscape Allergy Headlines — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:42:07 +0100

The impact of coughing for patients with asthma may be more important than currently appreciated, and has been rated more troublesome than wheeze, chest tightness, or disturbance of sleep. Current Opinion in Allergy and Clinical Immunology (Source: Medscape Allergy Headlines)

The Role of NK Cells in the Autoimmune Thyroid Disease-associated Pregnancy Loss

Clinical Reviews in Allergy and Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:52:47 +0100

Abstract Pregnancy loss is a frequent event. Autoimmune thyroid disorders and altered natural killer (NK) cell functions are two distinct risk factors, which independently could induce adverse pregnancy outcome. Thyroid autoimmunity has been an object of increased attention by investigators in the context of pregnancy loss. Peripheral NK cells and uNK cells comprise distinct cell populations in terms of phenotype and function but they play an important role in the course of a normal human pregnancy via several potential functions. In autoimmune thyroid diseases, several abnormalities of killer cell activity have been described. The functional defects involving NK maturation and/or functional activation observed in Graves’ disease patients could independently influence th...

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GAVI Calls Meeting With Existing, Potential Donors

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0100

The GAVI Alliance has "asked existing and potential donors to a meeting in The Hague on March 25 and 26 to challenge them to 'make a strong impact' on childhood death rates," Reuters reports... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Keeping Up With The Neighbors Speeds Vaccine Use

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health conducted an analysis of worldwide use of Haemophilus influenza Type b vaccine (Hib) to determine what factors influenced a nation's adoption of the vaccine... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Stem Cells Might One Day Treat Severe Asthma

MedicineNet Allergies General — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Stem Cells Might One Day Treat Severe AsthmaCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/15/2010 4:10:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 3/16/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Allergies General)

Obesity Impairs Body's "Memory" Of How To Fight Flu

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Obesity may limit the body's ability to develop immunity to influenza viruses, particularly secondary infections, by inhibiting the immune system's ability to "remember" how it fought off previous similar bouts of illness, according to new research from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription-1 (STAT-1) and differential expression of interferon-γ and anti-inflammatory proteins in pelvic ileal pouches for ulcerative colitis and familial adenomatous polyposis

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Pouchitis after total rectocolectomy is the most common complication of ulcerative colitis (UC). The immunological mechanisms involved in the genesis of pouchitis are unclear. Therefore, we evaluated the inflammatory activity in normal ileal pouch mucosa by determining signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT-1) activation and cytokine expression in patients operated for UC and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Eighteen asymptomatic patients, who underwent total rectocolectomy and J pouch, were evaluated: nine with UC and nine with FAP. The activation of STAT-1 and cytokine expression were determined by immunoblot of total protein extracts from pouch mucosal biopsies. The absence of pouchitis was assessed by clinical, histological and endoscopic parameters, according to...

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Tolerance induction after specific immunotherapy with pollen allergoids adjuvanted by monophosphoryl lipid A in children

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Specific immunotherapy (SIT) is a well-established and clinically effective treatment for allergic diseases. A pollen allergoid formulated with the T helper type 1 (Th1)-inducing adjuvant monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) facilitates short-term SIT. Little is known about mechanisms of tolerance induction in this setting. In a prospective study, 34 patients allergic to grass pollen (25 male, nine female, median age 10·2 years) received a total of 44 SIT courses (20 in the first, 24 in the second) with MPL-adjuvanted pollen allergoids. Immunogenicity was measured by levels of specific immunoglobulin G (IgGgrass) and IgG4grass by antibody blocking properties on basophil activation, and by induction of CD4+, CD25+ and forkhead box P3 (FoxP3+) regulatory T cells (Treg). Specific IgG and IgG4 levels...

Various effects of different probiotic strains in allergic disorders: an update from laboratory and clinical data

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Epidemiological data show that allergic children have a different intestinal flora from healthy children with higher levels of Clostridia and lower levels of Bifidobacteria. Nonetheless, Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli are found more commonly in the composition of the intestinal flora of non-allergic children. Probiotics are ingested live microbes that can modify intestinal microbial populations in a way that benefits the host and they are represented mainly by Lactobacilli. Enhanced presence of probiotic bacteria in the intestinal microbiota is found to correlate with protection against atopy. There is also very promising evidence to recommend the addition of probiotics to foods for the prevention and treatment of allergic diseases. Clinical improvement, especially in allergic rhinitis an...

A role for human endogenous retrovirus-K (HML-2) in rheumatoid arthritis: investigating mechanisms of pathogenesis

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are remnants of ancient retroviral infections within the human genome. These molecular fossils draw parallels with present-day exogenous retroviruses and have been linked previously with immunopathology within rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Mechanisms of pathogenesis for HERV-K in RA such as molecular mimicry were investigated. To clarify a role for HERVs in RA, potential autoantigens implicated in autoimmunity were scanned for sequence identity with retroviral epitopes. Short retroviral peptides modelling shared epitopes were synthesized, to survey anti-serum of RA patients and disease controls. A novel real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was also developed to quantify accurately levels of HERV-K (HML-2) gag expression, relative to normalized ...

Ketamine reduces inducible superoxide generation in human neutrophils in vitro by modulating the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-mediated pathway

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Many cellular stresses and inflammatory stimuli can activate p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), a serine/threonine kinase in the MAPK family. The different stimuli act via different receptors or signalling pathways to induce phosphorylation of the cytosolic protein p47phox, one subunit of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase. Formyl[ndash]methionyl[ndash]leucyl[ndash]phenylalanine (fMLP) has been shown to induce the p38 MAPK phosphorylation during the respiratory burst in human neutrophils. Here, we show that treatment with S(+)-ketamine or R(-)-ketamine at different concentrations (50, 100, 200, 400 µM) reduced fMLP-induced superoxide anion generation and p47phox phosphorylation in neutrophils in a concentration-dependent manner (y = [minus]0·093x + ...

Mitigation of septic shock in mice and rhesus monkeys by human chorionic gonadotrophin-related oligopeptides

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The marked improvement of several immune-mediated inflammatory diseases during pregnancy has drawn attention to pregnancy hormones as potential therapeutics for such disorders. Low molecular weight fractions derived from the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) have remarkable potent immunosuppressive effects in mouse models of diabetes and septic shock. Based on these data we have designed a set of oligopeptides related to the primary structure of hCG and tested these in models of septic shock in mice and rhesus monkeys. We demonstrate that mice exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and treated subsequently with selected tri-, tetra-, penta- and hepta-meric oligopeptides (i.e. MTR, VVC, MTRV, LQGV, AQGV, VLPALP, VLPALPQ) are protected against fatal LPS-induced septic shock....

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Cyclophilin–CD147 interactions: a new target for anti-inflammatory therapeutics

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

CD147 is a widely expressed plasma membrane protein that has been implicated in a variety of physiological and pathological activities. It is best known for its ability to function as extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (hence the other name for this protein, EMMPRIN), but has also been shown to regulate lymphocyte responsiveness, monocarboxylate transporter expression and spermatogenesis. These functions reflect multiple interacting partners of CD147. Among these CD147-interacting proteins cyclophilins represent a particularly interesting class, both in terms of structural considerations and potential medical implications. CD147 has been shown to function as a signalling receptor for extracellular cyclophilins A and B and to mediate chemotactic activity of cyclophilins towards ...

Altered expression of signalling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM) family receptors CS1 (CD319) and 2B4 (CD244) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we have investigated the expression and alternative splicing of CS1 and 2B4 in immune cells from SLE patients. The surface expression of CS1 and 2B4 on total peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), T, B, natural killer (NK) cells and monocytes in 45 patients with SLE and 30 healthy individuals was analysed by flow cytometry. CS1-positive B cell population was increased significantly in SLE patients. Because CS1 is a self-ligand and homophilic interaction of CS1 induces B cell proliferation and autocrine cytokine secretion, this could account for autoreactive B cell proliferation in SLE. The proportion of NK cells and monocytes expressing 2B4 on their surface was significantly lower in patients with SLE compared to healthy controls. Our study demonstrated altered expressi...

Coupled regulation of interleukin-12 receptor beta-1 of CD8+ central memory and CCR7-negative memory T cells in an early alloimmunity in liver transplant recipients

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, this work demonstrated that the IL-12R[beta]1+ cells of TCM and CNS are regulated in a tightly coupled manner and that expression levels of IL-12R[beta]1+ TCM play a crucial role in controlling allo- and infectious immunity. (Source: Clinical and Experimental Immunology)

Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) regulates haem oxygenase-1/ferritin expression: implications for toluene diisocyanate-induced asthma

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study of toluene diisocyanate (TDI)-OA, we found identical findings with increased transferrin and decreased ferritin levels in the serum of patients with TDI-OA. To elucidate whether diisocyanate suppresses FTL synthesis directly, we tested the effect of TDI on the FTL synthesis in A549 cells, a human airway epithelial cell line. We found that haem oxygenase-1 as well as FTL was suppressed by treatment with TDI in dose- and time-dependent manners. We also found that the synthesis of other anti-oxidant proteins such as thioredoxin-1, glutathione peroxidase, peroxiredoxin 1 and catalase were suppressed by TDI. Furthermore, TDI suppressed nuclear translocation of Nrf2 through suppressing the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs); extracellular-regulated kinase ...

Erratum

International Archives of Allergy and Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2010;151:284 (DOI:10.1159/000299464) (Source: International Archives of Allergy and Immunology)

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Author Index Vol. 151, 2010

International Archives of Allergy and Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2010;151:346348 (DOI:10.1159/000299656) (Source: International Archives of Allergy and Immunology)

Subject Index Vol. 151, 2010

International Archives of Allergy and Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2010;151:349350 (DOI:10.1159/000299657) (Source: International Archives of Allergy and Immunology)

Contents Vol. 151, 2010

International Archives of Allergy and Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2010;151:IIV (DOI:10.1159/000299664) (Source: International Archives of Allergy and Immunology)

Anti-TNF-Alpha Therapy With Infliximab in Spondyloarthritides

Medscape Allergy Headlines — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:46:53 +0100

Do the benefits of anti-TNF therapy in ankylosing spondylitis outweigh the shortcomings of this treatment? Expert Review of Clinical Immunology (Source: Medscape Allergy Headlines)

Rhinosinusitis and Comorbidities

Current Allergy and Asthma Reports — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 18:00:24 +0100

Abstract A variety of systemic conditions impact the incidence, severity, prognosis, and treatment approach in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The controversy surrounding the impact of allergic rhinitis on CRS continues, but it is reasonable to consider and treat allergic sources of inflammation in any patient with CRS. CRS is more severe in patients with aspirin sensitivity but improves—at least temporarily—to the same degree as in non-aspirin-sensitive patients, given appropriate therapy. Polypoid rhinosinusitis in cystic fibrosis patients is characterized by compromised mucociliary clearance and infection with staphylococcal and pseudomonal organisms. Affected individuals require frequent antibiotic treatment, saline lavage, and repeated surgeries. Rhino...

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GAVI Alliance Reaches Agreement With Drugmakers On Reduced-Price Pneumococcal Vaccines

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Several drugmakers have reached an agreement "to supply up to 200 million doses a year of cut-price pneumococcal vaccines to developing nations," according to GAVI Alliance, Reuters reports. A formal announcement of the deal is expected "in the next couple of weeks," GAVI's Deputy Chief Executive Officer Helen Evans told the news service Thursday... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Primary immunodeficiencies of protective immunity to primary infections.

Clinical Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bousfiha A, Picard C, Boisson-Dupuis S, Zhang SY, Bustamante J, Puel A, Jouanguy E, Ailal F, El-Baghdadi J, Abel L, Casanova JL The vast majority of primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) predispose affected individuals to recurrent or chronic infectious diseases, because they affect protective immunity to both primary and secondary or latent infections. We discuss here three recently described groups of PIDs that seem to impair immunity to primary infections without compromising immunity to secondary and latent infections. Patients with mutations in IL12B or IL12RB1 typically present mycobacterial disease in childhood with a favorable progression thereafter. Cross-protection between mycobacterial infections has even been observed. Patients with mutations in IRAK4 or MYD88 suffer f...

Is it age or HIV that drives the regulatory T-cells expansion that occurs in older HIV-infected persons?

Clinical Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Méndez Lagares G, Leal Noval M, Del Pozo Balado MD, León JA, Pacheco YM PMID: 20236865 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Clinical Immunology)

Thymus transplantation.

Clinical Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Markert ML, Devlin BH, McCarthy EA Thymus transplantation is a promising investigational therapy for infants born with no thymus. Because of the athymia, these infants lack T cell development and have a severe primary immunodeficiency. Although thymic hypoplasia or aplasia is characteristic of DiGeorge anomaly, in "complete" DiGeorge anomaly, there is no detectable thymus as determined by the absence of naive (CD45RA(+), CD62L(+)) T cells. Transplantation of postnatal allogeneic cultured thymus tissue was performed in sixty subjects with complete DiGeorge anomaly who were under the age of 2 years. Recipient survival was over 70%. Naive T cells developed 3-5 months after transplantation. The graft recipients were able to discontinue antibiotic prophylaxis, and immunoglobulin re...

Immunodominant T cell epitopes of hnRNP-A2 associated with disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

European Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Trembleau S, Hoffmann M, Meyer B, Nell V, Radner H, Zauner W, Hammer J, Aichinger G, Fischer G, Smolen J, Steiner G The heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2 (hnRNP-A2) has been described as important autoantigen in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) since it is targeted by autoantibodies, autoreactive T cells, and is aberrantly expressed in synovial cells in patients. To identify hnRNP-A2-specific T cell epitopes possibly associated with pathogenicity, we used an innovative approach. We first scanned 280 overlapping hnRNP-A2 peptides for binding to the RA-associated class II molecules HLA-DR4 and HLA-DR1, leading to a comprehensive selection of binders. The finally selected peptides were tested in IFN-gamma-specific ELISPOT assay: PBMC from 18% of RA patients showed a significant...

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Human peripheral blood and bone marrow EBV-specific T-cell repertoire in latent infection reveals distinct memory T-cell subsets.

European Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Guerreiro M, Na IK, Letsch A, Haase D, Bauer S, Meisel C, Roemhild A, Reinke P, Volk HD, Scheibenbogen C Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection leads to life-long viral persistence. Although EBV infection can result in chronic disease and malignant transformation, most carriers remain disease-free as a result of effective control by T cells. EBV-specific IFN-gamma-producing T cells could be demonstrated in acute and chronic infection as well as during latency. Recent studies provide, however, evidence that assessing IFN-gamma alone is insufficient to assess the quantity and quality of a T-cell response. Using overlapping peptide pools of latent EBNA-1 and lytic BZLF-1 protein and multicolor flow cytometry, we demonstrate that the majority of ex vivo EBV-reactive T cells in healthy...

Peripheral B Cell Tolerance and Function in Transgenic Mice Expressing an IgD Superantigen.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, mice were generated to ubiquitously express a membrane-bound IgD-superantigen. These mice supported virtually no B-2 development, a greatly reduced marginal zone B cell population, but a relatively normal B-1 compartment. B cell development in the spleen abruptly halted at the transitional B cell population 1 to 2 stage, a block that could not be rescued by either Bcl-2 or BAFF overexpression. The developmentally arrested B cells appeared less mature and turned over more rapidly than nontransgenic T2 cells, exhibiting neither conventional features of anergy nor appreciable receptor editing. Paradoxically, type-2 T-independent responses were more robust in the transgenic mice, although T-dependent responses were reduced and had skewed IgL and IgH isotype usages. Nevertheless,...

Relative Over-Reactivity of Human versus Chimpanzee Lymphocytes: Implications for the Human Diseases Associated with Immune Activation.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we show that human T cells are more reactive than chimpanzee T cells to a wide variety of stimuli, including anti-TCR Abs of multiple isotypes, l-phytohemagglutin, Staphylococcus aureus superantigen, a superagonist anti-CD28 Ab, and in MLRs. We also extend this observation to B cells, again showing a human propensity to react more strongly to stimuli. Finally, we show a relative increase in activation markers and cytokine production in human lymphocytes in response to uridine-rich (viral-like) ssRNA. Thus, humans manifest a generalized lymphocyte over-reactivity relative to chimpanzees, a finding that is correlated with decreased levels of inhibitory sialic acid-recognizing Ig-superfamily lectins (Siglecs; particularly Siglec-5) on human T and B cells. Furthermore, Siglec-5 ...

Adaptive Interactions between HLA and HIV-1: Highly Divergent Selection Imposed by HLA Class I Molecules with Common Supertype Motifs.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: John M, Heckerman D, James I, Park LP, Carlson JM, Chopra A, Gaudieri S, Nolan D, Haas DW, Riddler SA, Haubrich R, Mallal S Currently, 1.1 million individuals in the United States are living with HIV-1 infection. Although this is a relatively small proportion of the global pandemic, the remarkable mix of ancestries in the United States, drawn together over the past two centuries of continuous population migrations, provides an important and unique perspective on adaptive interactions between HIV-1 and human genetic diversity. HIV-1 is a rapidly adaptable organism and mutates within or near immune epitopes that are determined by the HLA class I genotype of the infected host. We characterized HLA-associated polymorphisms across the full HIV-1 proteome in a large, ethnically dive...

Different Proliferative Potential and Migratory Characteristics of Human CD4+ Regulatory T Cells That Express either CD45RA or CD45RO.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Booth NJ, McQuaid AJ, Sobande T, Kissane S, Agius E, Jackson SE, Salmon M, Falciani F, Yong K, Rustin MH, Akbar AN, Vukmanovic-Stejic M Although human naturally occurring regulatory T cells (Tregs) may express either CD45RA or CD45RO, we find in agreement with previous reports that the ( approximately 80%) majority of natural Tregs in adults are CD45RO(+). The proportion of CD45RA(+) Tregs decreases, whereas CD45RO(+) Tregs increase significantly with age. Nevertheless, a small proportion of CD45RA(+) Tregs are found even in old (>80 y) adults and a proportion of these express CD31, a marker for recent thymic emigrants. We found that CD45RO(+) Tregs were highly proliferative compared with their CD45RA(+) counterparts. This was due in part to the conversion of CD45RA Tregs t...

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Characterization of Synergistic Induction of CX3CL1/Fractalkine by TNF-{alpha} and IFN-{gamma} in Vascular Endothelial Cells: An Essential Role for TNF-{alpha} in Post-Transcriptional Regulation of CX3CL1.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This study explored the hypothesis that the CX3CL1 expression is regulated at a posttranscriptional level, which may responsible for the synergism between TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma. Brief exposure of HUVECs to TNF-alpha led to a robust increase in IFN-gamma-induced CX3CL1 production. We found that TNF-alpha stabilized CX3CL1 mRNA in HUVECs stimulated with IFN-gamma. Cloning of 3'untranslated region (UTR) of CX3CL1 mRNA revealed the presence of a single copy of nonametric AU-rich element in its 3'UTR, and a luciferase reporter assay showed that a single AU-rich element is a crucial cis-element in the posttranscriptional regulation of CX3CL1. TNF-alpha treatment resulted in the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and its downstream target, MAPK-activated protein kinase-2, but IFN-gamma did not affect ...

CD11chi Dendritic Cells Regulate the Re-establishment of Vascular Quiescence and Stabilization after Immune Stimulation of Lymph Nodes.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Tzeng TC, Chyou S, Tian S, Webster B, Carpenter AC, Guaiquil VH, Lu TT Lymph node expansion during immune responses is accompanied by rapid vascular expansion. The re-establishment of quiescence and stabilization of the newly expanded vasculature and the regulatory mechanisms involved have not been well studied. We show that although initiation of vascular expansion in immune-stimulated nodes is associated with upregulated endothelial cell proliferation, increased high endothelial venule trafficking efficiency and VCAM-1 expression, and disrupted perivascular fibroblastic reticular cell organization, the re-establishment of vascular quiescence and stabilization postexpansion is characterized by reversal of these phenomena. Although CD11c(med) cells are associated with the init...

Protein-DNA Complex Is the Exclusive Malaria Parasite Component that Activates Dendritic Cells and Triggers Innate Immune Responses.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we purified merozoites, food vacuoles, and parasite membrane fragments released during the Plasmodium falciparum schizont burst to homogeneity and tested for the activation of bone marrow-derived DCs from wild-type and TLR2(-/-), TLR4(-/-), TLR9(-/-), and MyD88(-/-) C57BL/6J mice. The results demonstrate that a protein-DNA complex is the exclusive parasite component that activates DCs by a TLR9-dependent pathway to produce inflammatory cytokines. Complex formation with proteins is essential for the entry of parasite DNA into DCs for TLR9 recognition and, thus, proteins convert inactive DNA into a potent immunostimulatory molecule. Exogenous cationic polymers, polylysine and chitosan, can impart stimulatory activity to parasite DNA, indicating that complex formation involves ...

IL-17RC Is Required for IL-17A- and IL-17F-Dependent Signaling and the Pathogenesis of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Hu Y, Ota N, Peng I, Refino CJ, Danilenko DM, Caplazi P, Ouyang W It has been suggested that IL-17RC forms a complex with IL-17RA to mediate the functions of IL-17A and IL-17F homodimers as well as IL-17A/F heterodimers. It is still unclear whether IL-17RC is absolutely required for the signaling of IL-17 cytokines in vivo. By using Il-17rc-deficient mice, we show that IL-17RC is essential for the signaling of IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-17A/F both in vitro and in vivo. IL-17RC does not preassociate with IL-17RA on the cell surface; rather IL-17A can induce the formation of an IL-17RC and IL-17RA complex. This process is not dependent on the intracellular similar expression to fibroblast growth factor genes and IL-17Rs (SEFIR) domain of IL-17RC, but the SEFIR is essential in IL-17A...

Inhibitor of NK-{kappa}B Kinases {alpha} and {beta} Are Both Essential for High Mobility Group Box 1-Mediated Chemotaxis.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Penzo M, Molteni R, Suda T, Samaniego S, Raucci A, Habiel DM, Miller F, Jiang HP, Li J, Pardi R, Palumbo R, Olivotto E, Kew RR, Bianchi ME, Marcu KB Inhibitor of NF-kappaB kinases beta (IKKbeta) and alpha (IKKalpha) activate distinct NF-kappaB signaling modules. The IKKbeta/canonical NF-kappaB pathway rapidly responds to stress-like conditions, whereas the IKKalpha/noncanonical pathway controls adaptive immunity. Moreover, IKKalpha can attenuate IKKbeta-initiated inflammatory responses. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a chromatin protein, is an extracellular signal of tissue damage-attracting cells in inflammation, tissue regeneration, and scar formation. We show that IKKalpha and IKKbeta are each critically important for HMGB1-elicited chemotaxis of fibroblasts, macrophage...

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Lack of neo-sensitization to Pen a 1 in patients treated with mite sublingual immunotherapy

Clinical and Molecular Allergy — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Patients did not show neo-sensitization to tropomyosin, a component of the extract (namely mite group 10) administered. An assessment of a patient's possible pre-existing sensitisation to tropomyosin by skin test and/or specific IgE prior to start mite extract immunotherapy is recommended. (Source: Clinical and Molecular Allergy)

Uptake of apoptotic DC converts immature DC into tolerogenic DC that induce differentiation of Foxp3+ Treg

European Journal of Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we showed that immature viable DC have the ability to uptake apoptotic DC as well as necrotic DC without it being recognized as an inflammatory event by immature viable DC. However, the specific uptake of apoptotic DC converted immature viable DC into tolerogenic DC, which were resistant to LPS-induced maturation. These tolerogenic DC secreted increased levels of TGF-[beta]1, which induced differentiation of naïve T cells into Foxp3+ Treg. Furthermore, induction of Treg differentiation only occurred upon uptake of apoptotic DC and not apoptotic splenocytes by viable DC, indicating that it is specifically the uptake of apoptotic DC that gives viable immature DC the potential to induce Foxp3+ Treg. Taken together, these findings identify uptake of apoptotic DC by viable immat...

Identification of a novel allele HLA-A*240220 by polymerase chain reaction sequence-based typing in a Chinese individual

Tissue Antigens — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

HLA-A*240220 has one nucleotide change from HLA-A*24020101 at position 201 in exon 2 from G to C. (Source: Tissue Antigens)

BioSante Announces Positive Leukemia Vaccine Results

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

BioSante Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: BPAX) announced positive results of a human clinical study that show that its GVAX Leukemia vaccine may be able to reduce or eliminate the last remaining cancer cells in some chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients taking the drug Gleevec (imatinib mesylate)... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Baxter Presents Clinical Efficacy Results From Phase III Study Of Seasonal Flu Vaccine

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Baxter International Inc. (NYSE:BAX), in conjunction with DynPort Vaccine Company LLC (DVC), a CSC Company (NYSE:CSC), presented Phase III study data measuring the clinical efficacy for PREFLUCEL, a trivalent seasonal influenza candidate vaccine. PREFLUCEL is made using Baxter's Vero cell culture platform and does not contain an adjuvant or preservatives... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

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The role of activation-induced cell death in the higher onset of spontaneous apoptosis of NK cell subsets in patients with metastatic epithelial cancer.

Cellular Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 06:34:03 +0100

Authors: Stanzer S, Janesch B, Resel M, Augustin T, Samonigg H, Bauernhofer T To address the question whether the higher onset of apoptosis of circulating NK cell subsets might be activation induced in cancer patients, surface expression of NKG2D and serum (s) levels of MHC class I chain-related (MIC) proteins in relation to apoptosis marker and CD95 expression on NK cells were evaluated. Patients showed a significantly higher onset of spontaneous apoptosis of CD56dim NK cells. No difference in the CD95 expression could be detected between patients and normal controls (NCs). Patients' CD56bright NK cells demonstrated a higher expression of NKG2D compared to CD56dim NK cells. The sMICB levels showed a higher level in patients versus NCs. No correlation between sMIC protein levels with b...

Cyclophosphamide induces bone marrow to yield higher numbers of precursor dendritic cells in vitro capable of functional antigen presentation to T cells in vivo.

Cellular Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 06:34:03 +0100

Authors: Salem ML, El-Naggar SA, Cole DJ We have shown recently that cyclophosphamide (CTX) treatment induced a marked increase in the numbers of immature dendritic cells (DCs) in blood, coinciding with enhanced antigen-specific responses of the adoptively transferred CD8(+) T cells. Because this DC expansion was preceded by DC proliferation in bone marrow (BM), we tested whether BM post CTX treatment can generate higher numbers of functional DCs. BM was harvested three days after treatment of C57BL/6 mice with PBS or CTX and cultured with GM-CSF/IL-4 in vitro. Compared with control, BM from CTX-treated mice showed faster generation and yielded higher numbers of DCs with superior activation in response to toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists. Vaccination with peptide-pulsed DCs generated ...

B1 cells produce nitric oxide in response to a series of toll-like receptor ligands.

Cellular Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 06:34:03 +0100

Authors: Tumurkhuu G, Koide N, Dagvadorj J, Noman AS, Khuda II, Naiki Y, Komatsu T, Yoshida T, Yokochi T The effect of a series of toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands on the production of nitric oxide (NO) in mouse B1 cells was examined by using CD5(+) IgM(+) WEHI 231 cells. The stimulation with a series of TLR ligands, which were Pam3Csk4 for TLR1/2, poly I:C for TLR3, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for TLR4, imiquimod for TLR7 and CpG DNA for TLR9, resulted in enhanced NO production via augmented expression of an inducible type of NO synthase (iNOS). LPS was most potent for the enhancement of NO production, followed by poly I:C and Pam3Csk4. Imiquimod and CpG DNA led to slight NO production. The LPS-induced NO production was dependent on MyD88-dependent pathway consisting of nuclear factor (N...

A cell permeant peptide containing the cytoplasmic tail sequence of Fc receptor type IIA reduces calcium signaling and phagolysosome formation in neutrophils.

Cellular Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 06:34:03 +0100

Authors: Clark AJ, Petty HR Receptors for the Fc domain of IgG mediate target recognition, signal transduction, and effector functions including antibody-dependent cytolysis, phagocytosis, and phagolysosome formation. To better understand FcR-mediated functions and to identify potential therapeutic strategies, we employed cell-penetrating ("Trojan") peptides to deliver "wild-type" (LTL) or modified (AAA) FcgammaRIIA tail sequences to the neutrophil's cytoplasm. The Trojan-LTL peptide appeared to label the endoplasmic reticulum whereas the Trojan-AAA peptide distributed throughout the cytoplasm. The Trojan-LTL peptide, but not the Trojan-AAA peptide, decreased Ca(2+) signaling at the phagosome and reduced phagolysosome formation. These studies suggest that FcgammaRIIA's tail can act as ...

G-protein-coupled receptor independent, immunomodulatory properties of chemokine CXCL9.

Cellular Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 06:34:03 +0100

Authors: Gong JH, Nicholls EF, Elliott MR, Brown KL, Hokamp K, Roche FM, Cheung CY, Falsafi R, Brinkman FS, Bowdish DM, Hancock RE Certain chemokines possess anti-angiogenic and antibacterial activity, in addition to their ability to recruit leukocytes. Herein, we demonstrate that CXCL9/MIG induces the expression, by a monocytic cell line and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, of a variety of chemokines including CXCL8/IL-8, CCL3/MIP-1alpha, CCL4/MIP-1beta, CCL2/MCP-1 in a pertussis toxin insensitive manner. Similarly, another cationic chemokine CCL20/MIP-3alpha, but not the non-cationic chemokines CCL2 or CCL3, stimulated monocytic cells to produce substantial amounts of CXCL8 and CCL3. Microarray experiments demonstrated that CXCL9, but not CCL2, induced the expression of hundreds o...

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Expression and functional analyses of liver expressed antimicrobial peptide-2 (LEAP-2) variant forms in human tissues.

Cellular Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 06:34:03 +0100

Authors: Howard A, Townes C, Milona P, Nile CJ, Michailidis G, Hall J The antimicrobial peptide Liver Expressed Antimicrobial Peptide-2 (LEAP-2) is proposed to function as part of the vertebrate innate immune system. However, the highly conserved nature of the LEAP-2 peptide primary structure among vertebrates suggests more fundamental physiological roles. RT-PCR analyses confirmed expression of LEAP-2 mRNA variants in human gastro-intestinal (GI) epithelial tissues and THP-1 monocytes. Three cDNA products indicative of at least three different spliced transcripts were observed. Translation of the cDNA sequences supported synthesis of transcripts encoding the secreted LEAP-2 peptide and two variants lacking signal sequences suggesting intracellular localisation. The synthesis and cytop...

Suppression of murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by interleukin-2 receptor targeted fusion toxin, DAB(389)IL-2.

Cellular Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 06:34:03 +0100

Authors: Phillips SM, Bhopale MK, Hilliard B, Zekavat SA, Ali MA, Rostami A Previously we have shown that DAB(389)IL-2, a recombinant fusion toxin targeting IL-2R bearing cells, suppressed disease in the rat experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of acute multiple sclerosis (MS). Our present study demonstrates that DAB(389)IL-2 can also effectively suppress acute (A)-EAE, relapsing (R)-EAE and chronic (C)-EAE in mouse demyelinating models. DAB(389)IL-2 significantly suppressed mitogenic proliferation of spleen cells while mutant fusion proteins DA(glu53)B(389)IL-2 and DAB(389)IL-2(8-10) did not. EAE was successfully suppressed when DAB(389)IL-2 was administered in various regimens between days 1 and 15 post immunization in all three models. CD4(+)IL-2R(+) cells were redu...

Regulatory T cells (CD4(+)CD25(bright)FoxP3(+)) expansion in systemic sclerosis correlates with disease activity and severity.

Cellular Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 06:34:03 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Increased numbers of Treg cells are present in patients with SSc, correlating with activity and severity of the disease. This expansion of Treg cells was not accompanied, however, by heightened TGF-beta or IL-10 production. Further studies to elaborate the causes and functional significance of Treg cell expansion in SSc are needed. PMID: 20096404 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Cellular Immunology)

CD169+ macrophages present lipid antigens to mediate early activation of iNKT cells in lymph nodes

Nature Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Patricia Barral, Paolo Polzella, Andreas Bruckbauer, Nico van Rooijen, Gurdyal S Besra, Vincenzo Cerundolo & Facundo D Batista (Source: Nature Immunology)

An intravascular immune response to Borrelia burgdorferi involves Kupffer cells and iNKT cells

Nature Immunology — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Woo-Yong Lee, Tara J Moriarty, Connie H Y Wong, Hong Zhou, Robert M Strieter, Nico van Rooijen, George Chaconas & Paul Kubes (Source: Nature Immunology)

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Interleukin-18 and interferon-gamma polymorphisms in Brazilian human immunodeficiency virus-1-infected patients presenting with lipodystrophy syndrome

Tissue Antigens — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Cytokines play important roles in the pathogenesis of lipodystrophy syndrome (LS). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at positions [minus]607(C/A) and [minus]137(C/G) in the promoter region of the interleukin-18 (IL-18) gene and at position +874(T/A) of the interferon-gamma (IFN-[gamma]) gene are related to the expression of these cytokines. To examine whether IL-18 and IFN-[gamma] polymorphisms are associated with LS, these SNPs were genotyped in 88 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients presenting LS, 79 HIV-infected without LS, and 133 healthy controls. The [minus]607A allele, [minus]607AA genotype, and [minus]137G/[ndash]607A and [minus]137C/[ndash]607A haplotypes in the IL-18 gene were over-represented in HIV patients presenting LS. The [minus]137G/[minus]607C haplot...

Association of canine juvenile generalized demodicosis with the dog leukocyte antigen system

Tissue Antigens — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Demodectic mange is a well-known parasitic skin disease characterized by the presence of a larger than normal number of Demodex mites (Demodex canis) in the skin of dogs. Recent research has suggested that major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II expression is higher in the skin of dogs suffering from demodicosis than in normal ones. We have investigated whether canine Dog Leukocyte Antigen (DLA) class II alleles are associated with canine juvenile generalized demodicosis (JGD). In the present study, the analysis of microsatellite markers (FH2202, FH2975 and FH2054) linked to DLA was made in Boxer, Argentinean Mastiff and mixed breed dogs. DNA samples from 56 dogs affected with the disease and 60 breed-matched controls collected in Argentina were analysed. A highly significant assoc...

Identification of a novel HLA-DRB111 variant allele, DRB11189

Tissue Antigens — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Here, we describe the identification of a novel human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1 allele, DRB1*1189, that was found in an Italian Caucasian individual. This sequence differs from HLA-DRB1*1134 by three nucleotide exchange at positions 286 (C[rarr]T), 296 (A[rarr]G), and 308 (C[rarr]A) in exon 2. (Source: Tissue Antigens)

Lost in a tsunami of references: the Babel tower strikes again

Tissue Antigens — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Tissue Antigens)