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Investigating immunity: uncovering the mechanisms of the immune system

Futurum

Investigating immunity: uncovering the mechanisms of the immune system Published: Our immune systems work around the clock to keep us safe from disease. Whenever we become infected with a virus or bacteria, our immune systems jump into action – locating, identifying and destroying the infectious agent.

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Can scientists prevent kidney disease?

Futurum

Sepsis occurs when the immune system overreacts to an infection, damaging the body’s tissues and organs. Jamie’s research involves studying macrophages, important cells in the immune system. Jamie is using mouse models and human studies to investigate macrophages and cytokines in the kidneys during septic AKI. “In

Biology 98
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How do plants protect themselves from diseases?

Futurum

At Mississippi State University in the US, Dr Sorina Popescu is studying the mechanisms that underlie plants’ immune systems. Immune response — a reaction that occurs within an organism to protect it from pathogens. Generally speaking, there are two types of plant immune responses,” explains Sorina.

Biology 79
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How to build a game-changing malaria vaccine

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Our immune system To understand why it is so difficult to develop a malaria vaccine first, we must first understand two important parts of our immune system, and the malaria parasite’s method for exploiting them. The second involves some of the first molecules of an immune response, once a pathogen is identified.

Biology 55
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How can vaccinating pigs protect people?

Futurum

ANTIBODY – a protein used by the immune system to prevent viruses infecting cells. IMMUNE SYSTEM – the complex network of biological processes which organisms use to protect themselves from diseases. To protect itself against infection, the body’s immune system must learn to identify and destroy viruses.

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Keep calm and carrot on: how can we breed better carrots?

Futurum

At the US Department of Agriculture Vegetable Crop Research Unit at the University of Wisconsin-Madison , USA, Dr Bill Rolling and Dr Jenyne Loarca are investigating what influences carrot germination and growth, helping plant breeders to cultivate more successful carrot varieties. How is Bill studying carrot germination?

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Could a nettle a day keep the doctor away?

Futurum

As a result, these ‘good bacteria’ contribute to a healthy immune system and help keep us safe from disease. This is why Diana is keen to investigate whether eating nettles could help keep gut bacteria in good shape. How can we look after our gut? Do people really eat nettles?