Northwestern Medicine scientists have identified a crucial immune cell subset, type 1 conventional dendritic cells (cDC1), in organ transplantation acceptance. The research indicates that enhancing the functions of these cells could lessen the need for immunosuppressive medications, which currently increase risks for infections and organ damage. The study utilized engineered mice lacking cDC1s to assess heart transplantation outcomes. By manipulating immune responses, the researchers aim to achieve better acceptance of transplant organs, thereby potentially improving long-term survival rates for patients receiving transplants.
This study looked at the ways we can co-opt natural functions of the immune system to be more tolerant or accepting of a foreign antigen or a foreign particle like a transplant to then accept the organ and need either less immunosuppressant medication or no medication at all.
These cells are almost like the teacher of the immune system. They present foreign particles to the other immune cells.
Collection
[
|
...
]