autoimmune diseases

Latest

autoimmune diseases

FDA approves ozanimod for treatment of multiple sclerosis

The FDA has approved a new drug named Ozanimod for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Ozanimod binds to receptors in lymphocytes' surfaces, preventing them from reaching the brain. As the number of active lymphocytes decreases, the attack on the immune system diminishes. Read More

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

Fat-dissolving bile acids may help regulate gut immunity and inflammation

Two studies reveal the role bile acids play in immunity and inflammation. Read More

This shows a hand holding a drawing of a brain

Featured Neurology Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

Multiple sclerosis linked to variant of common herpes virus

Researchers link the Human Herpes Virus 6A to the development of multiple sclerosis. Read More

Featured Neuroscience

Gut instincts: Researchers discover first clues on how gut health influences brain health

Mice bred to be germ-free, and those treated with antibiotics showed a significant reduction in the ability to learn that a threatening danger was no longer present. Sequencing the RNA of microglia in the brains of the animals reveals altered gene expression in the immune cells, which play a role in remodeling how neurons connect during the learning process. Restoring the gut microbiota reverse the learning problems. Read More

This shows a brain made up of cog wheels

Autism Featured Neurology Neuroscience

First evidence of immune response targeting brain cells in autism

Examining postmortem brains of ASD patients, researchers discover an accumulation of immune cells surrounding blood vessels in the brain. They also found blebs accumulating around blood vessels that contained astrocyte debris. The findings suggest autism may be an autoimmune disorder. Read More

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

Gut immunity more developed before birth than previously thought

The fetal gut has far better developed immune capabilities than previously thought. The findings could help develop new maternal vaccines and provide early insight into potential autoimmune disorders, which may occur later in life. Read More

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

Dietary interventions may slow onset of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders

Reducing dietary levels of methionine can slow the onset and progression of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, in those with high-risk factors. Read More

This shows a skeleton and a computer screen with a brain on it

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

The gut may be involved in the development of multiple sclerosis

Increased levels of Smad7 in T-cells is linked to multiple sclerosis-like symptoms in mice. In the intestines, the T-cells were more frequently activated and migrated to the central nervous system, where they triggered inflammation. Similar activation was seen in human patients with multiple sclerosis. The findings provide further evidence that multiple sclerosis may start in the intestines and spread via the CNS. Read More

This shows a woman sitting at her desk, rubbing her eyes

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience Psychology

Vitamin B12 deficiency: what is Pernicious anemia, and why can it be so dangerous?

Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disorder associated with vitamin B12 deficiency. The condition not only affects physical health, it also has a detrimental effect on the mental health of many who suffer from the condition. Read More

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

Polio-like disease AFM linked to enterovirus

Researchers detected immunological remnants of enterovirus in the nervous systems of more than 12 patients with acute flaccid myelitis (AFM). The findings provide the strongest evidence to date that AFM is caused by a virus. The discovery could lead to improved diagnostics for the condition and the development of a vaccine for AFM. Read More

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

Frontotemporal dementia is associated with alterations in immune system function

Researchers discovered increased inflammatory activity in a subgroup of patients with frontotemporal dementia. The increased inflammation was indicated by elevated levels of cytokines known to increase inflammatory response and decreased levels of IL-10, which reduces inflammation. The inflammation was associated with Parkinsonism's symptoms and rapid cognitive and functional decline. The study also revealed patients with FTD are less likely to develop cancer. Read More

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

Stem cell transplant reverses disabling MS-like disease

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation reversed neuromyelitis optica. Five years following transplantation, only 2 of twelve patients had relapsed. Read More