Source: Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
Posted: June 22, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered that marrow stem cells -- undifferentiated cells that eventually give rise to blood cells that fight infection -- possess receptors that recognize bacteria and viruses. When activated, these receptors kick the stem cells and immature blood cells into action, enlisting them to help fight whatever pathogen is attacking the body.
The findings, which appear in the June issue of the journal Immunity, could have important implications for treating leukemias and autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can eventually be turned into an effective clinical application to treat autoimmune diseases and disorders in humans.
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