Immunology & Cell Biology最新文献

In this article for the “Highlights of 2024” series, we discuss antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs), which are an emerging class of targeted cancer therapies that harness the specificity of monoclonal antibodies to deliver cytotoxic agents directly to tumor cells. ADCs bind to tumor-associated antigens, undergo internalization via receptor-mediated endocytosis, and release their cytotoxic payload intracellularly, reducing systemic toxicity. This highly selective mechanism has led to significant advancements in oncology, improving treatment efficacy while minimizing adverse effects.

In this manuscript for the “Highlights of 2024” series, this is me trying to summarize recent discoveries regarding the emerging regulatory and effector roles of γδ T cells during sepsis, both in human patients and in mouse models. The new findings not only aid our understanding of key immunological and pathophysiological pathways that hit differently during the course of the disease but may also have clinical relevance for a life-threatening condition that requires swift intervention and tailored patient management.

Scientists and researchers represent a broad diversity of genders, races, and abilities, emphasising the importance of intersectionality in healthcare and STEMM. However, with diversity come systemic barriers that must be addressed to achieve equity and inclusion. Overcoming these challenges is essential to enrich scientific discovery and drive medical progress. This Special Feature of Immunology & Cell Biology on “Advancing Equity and Inclusion in Healthcare: an immunological call to action” highlights key barriers to the entry and retention of underrepresented minorities in healthcare and STEMM. We also examine the individual, institutional and systemic changes needed to ensure that intersectionality fuels innovation and that solutions are as dynamic and inclusive as the challenges they seek to address.

In this article for the “Highlights of 2024” Series, we discuss natural killer cells, which are essential players in immune defense, with their function tightly regulated by cytokines and ligand–receptor interactions. We discuss important recent findings that have uncovered critical regulatory pathways shaping NK cell activity.

I never imagined my career would take me beyond the laboratory bench. As a postdoctoral researcher at the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, I was deeply invested in understanding the mechanisms behind ovarian cancer progression, driven by curiosity and the hope that my work might one day improve outcomes for patients. But science isn’t just about discovery—it's also about impact. And somewhere along the way, I realized that my passion extended beyond experiments and data—I wanted to help shape the research landscape itself. That realisation led me to my current role as a Research Advisor for the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), where I now work to bridge the gap between research and funding, ensuring that the needs of those with a lived experience of ovarian cancer align with the research. The transition from academic research to the not-for-profit sector wasn’t without its challenges. I had to navigate uncertainty, redefine my professional identity and learn to recognise the value of my transferable skills—critical thinking, science communication and strategic planning. This journey has reinforced what I haven’t always realized: science isn’t confined to the laboratory. It's in the conversations we have, the policies we influence and the way we shape the future of research. My career continues to evolve, and while I don’t know exactly what the future holds, one thing remains certain: I am committed to making a difference, in whatever form that takes.

Cancer-associated aberrant glycosylation can be detected by the macrophage galactose-type C-type lectin (MGL) receptor; however, whether this interaction enhances or deadens cancer development along with the associated immune response has not been well established. To determine the role of mouse MGL1 in colitis-associated colon cancer (CAC), azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced tumor development was compared between Mgl1 knockout (Mgl1^−/−) mice and their wild-type (WT) littermates. At 75 days post-CAC induction, colon tumor tissue contained more highly glycosylated proteins, representing potential ligands for the mMGL1 receptor, than did healthy colon tissue. The Mgl1^−/− CAC mice scored lower in disease activity indices and had fewer colonic tumors. In addition, the colonic crypt architecture was less damaged, and mucin production was more significant than in the WT CAC mice. Furthermore, Mgl1^−/− CAC mice displayed higher percentages of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells in the peripheral blood, and colonic lamina propria; and lower percentages of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Additionally, less macrophage (Mφ) and natural killer (NK) cell infiltration and lower levels of iNOS and arginase were found in the tumor microenvironment of Mgl1^−/− CAC mice compared with WT mice. These results suggest that the mMGL1 receptor may recognize aberrant glycosylation in colon cancer, which may trigger an inflammatory microenvironment and favor colon tumorigenesis.

Effective scientific communication fosters public support and trust in research, establishing a stronger understanding of health and disease. Making STEM education more accessible is crucial for blind, low-vision and diverse-needs (BLVDN) communities, where grasping complex biomedical concepts can be challenging. Such accessibility promotes equal opportunities and encourages innovation through diverse perspectives. This paper examines the Sensory Science Cambridge exhibition, held at the Cambridge Festival in March 2024, aiming to enhance the accessibility of biomedical concepts for BLVDN communities, inspired by Monash Sensory Science in Australia. The exhibition included several tactile exhibits, including one designed to educate on the nature of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and their link to cervical cancer through a diorama art piece. We were guided by the question: How can tactile and sensory materials convey HPV infection and its progression to cervical cancer? To achieve this, we developed a tactile diorama for independent navigation, featuring braille keys, explanatory panels and verbal descriptions. The diorama was created through collaboration between scientists and artists, and its effectiveness was evaluated through participant feedback and observational studies during the exhibition. The diorama significantly improved the participants’ understanding of HPV and cervical cancer, providing new or building on existing knowledge. The success of this exhibition project provides a model for using tactile and sensory materials in biomedical education. It highlights the potential of sensory science approaches in making STEM education more accessible and underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in creating accessible, scientifically rigorous communication tools, offering insights for future inclusive science outreach.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1P₁) ligands effectively reduce immunopathological damage in viral pneumonia models. Specifically, S1P₁ ligands inhibit cytokine storm and help preserve lung endothelial barrier integrity. We recently showed that the S1P receptor ligand ozanimod can be safely administered to hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) exhibiting severe symptoms of viral pneumonia, with potential clinical benefits. Here, we extend on this study and investigate the impact of ozanimod on key features of the immune response in patients with severe COVID-19. We quantified circulating cytokine levels, peripheral immune cell numbers, proportions and activation status; we also monitored the quality of the humoral response by assessing anti–severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) antibodies. Our findings reveal that patients receiving ozanimod during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection exhibit significantly reduced numbers of circulating monocytes compared with those receiving standard care. Correspondingly, in the ozanimod-treated group, circulating levels of C–C motif ligand 2 (CCL2) were decreased. While treatment with ozanimod negatively impacted the humoral response to COVID-19 in unvaccinated patients, it did not impair the development of a robust anti–SARS-CoV-2 antibody response in vaccinated patients. These findings suggest that ozanimod influences key immune mechanisms during the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Indigenous representation in Australian biomedical science and pharmacy research remains limited due to systemic barriers, historical marginalization and culturally inappropriate educational frameworks. This article outlines a case study of initiatives at the University of Newcastle (UoN) aimed at addressing these inequities. Central to this effort is the establishment of the Indigenous Student Engagement Committee, which promotes Indigenous participation across all academic stages. Working in conjunction with key programs, including culturally embedded pathways such as the Yapug and Miroma Bunbilla programs, undergraduate and postgraduate research fellowships, and culturally inclusive curricula, demonstrate UoN's commitment to fostering a robust pipeline for Indigenous researchers. The UoN's initiatives are grounded in collaboration with local Aboriginal communities, ensuring relevance and cultural safety. Early engagement programs with primary and secondary schools, supported by partnerships with the Wollotuka Institute, create pathways that demystify science and higher education. Hands-on experiences, such as laboratory work placements, enhance accessibility and interest among Indigenous students. At the tertiary level, efforts focus on indigenizing curricula and providing dedicated spaces and mentorship that nurture academic success and cultural connection. The article also highlights challenges, including the rigidity of traditional funding models, the discomfort of non-Indigenous staff in this space, and the need for flexible, inclusive recruitment practices. Recommendations for addressing these barriers include ongoing cultural capability training, mentorship programs and tailored funding constructs that accommodate community commitments. By outlining the UoN's comprehensive, culturally responsive strategies, this case study offers a model for increasing Indigenous engagement in biomedical sciences. It underscores the importance of systemic change, collaboration and sustained investment in creating equitable pathways for Indigenous students and researchers, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive academic and research environment in Australia.

Gender inequities persist in science, with women encountering significant barriers at various career stages, particularly in fields such as Immunology. This article highlights the work of Immunologists for Gender Equity (IgEquity), a trainee-led organization within the ImmunoX Program at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), which is committed to addressing these disparities. Through initiatives focused on community building, mentorship, outreach and advocacy, IgEquity seeks to advance gender equity in academia. We emphasize the critical role that trainee-led organizations can play in driving change and underscore the importance of institutional support in creating lasting, systemic progress toward gender equity in the scientific community.