As immune system yields its secrets, new strategies against disease emerge

Article Abstract:

Several important areas of research were highlighted at the annual meeting of the Institute of Medicine, in Washington, DC. From the meeting, there was a growing awareness that the immune system, through understanding and manipulation, is now becoming a very important tool in the clinical diagnosis, and treatment of disease. One area of vital research concerns a product of specific white blood cells, Interleukin 4 (IL-4) has emerged as an important messenger and regulator of immunoglobulin E (IgE), which is found in high concentrations in humans and animals infected with worms. In a laboratory experiment designed to show that the level of IgE was in fact controlled by IL-4, infected rodents were given an immunologic serum that destroys IL-4. The result was that the infected animals so treated failed to develop high blood levels of IgE. Although an interesting experiment, the use of anti-IL-4 antibodies as a treatment is unlikely since it would require constant infusion. However, since IL-4 is just one of numerous similar biologic products the possibility of the use of similar strategies that reduce or neutralize interleukin is a possibility. Other topics covered at the meeting included the identification of individuals at risk for autoimmune disorders. These diseases occur when the body tissues of an individual are identified as foreign by the immune system and are consequently attacked. The immune system was compared to a "black box", a device which largely operates in an unknown way and is known only through its output. Several new methods of research, including placing human fetal cells within the kidney capsule of mice, have allowed researchers to study animal models of human immunodeficiency.

Physiological aspects, Autoimmune diseases, Interleukins, Immune system, Interleukin structure-activity relationships

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Long struggle continues to find new weapons against an old foe - the malaria parasite

Article Abstract:

An effective vaccine has not yet been developed against the malarial parasite, despite numerous contributions of research in molecular biology, and protection against infection complex. A workshop was recently held that focused on the mechanisms of malarial immunity. A great deal of recent research has been devoted to cellular responses. Some studies have shown evidence that cytokines, such as interferon and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), may provide protection against the malarial parasite. Patients with complicated forms of malaria have been found to have much higher concentrations of TNF than are found in patients with more conventional forms of the disease. The development of an anti-TNF antibody has been discussed as a possible treatment for these individuals who are severely affected. Another aspect of the disease that has contributed to the difficulties in developing effective preventive measures is the fact that it is highly immunosuppressive; repeated infections are necessary before immunity against infection is established. This, in part, explains the high mortality from malaria in children under five years old. Although prevention is a priority, work has continued on developing a vaccine. One of the more promising candidates is a recombinant (genetically engineered) protein that has been coupled with Pseudomonas toxin A, which assists T cell response and enhances the immune system. The vaccine is still in the trial stages and has been tested on 20 volunteers. A field test has been planned in Kenya and Thailand for the summer of 1990. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Prevention, Malaria, Malaria vaccine, Malaria vaccines

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ACS sets blueprint for action against prostate cancer in African Americans

Article Abstract:

The American Cancer Society in conjunction with several African American national organizations has proposed key areas needing funding in the fight against prostate cancer. The areas include research, education, patient support and public policy and ACS plans to spend $8 to $10 million annually in these areas. The overall incidence of prostate cancer doubled between 1976 and 1994. However, black men are 1.5 times more likely to get prostate cancer than white men and 2 to 3 times more likely to die from it. This is true even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors.

Health aspects, Demographic aspects, Science and technology policy, Prostate cancer, African American men, American Cancer Society

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