Article Abstract:
Different substances that block the activity of cytokines may be an effective treatment for systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). SIRS is a disorder characterized by activation of the endothelial cells, or the cells lining the cavities of the heart and the blood and lymph vessels. Cytokines are proteins with different types of biological activity that play an important role in the development of SIRS. Different cytokines involved in the development of SIRS include interleukin 1 (IL-1), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interferon-gamma and interleukin 8. Experiments in laboratory animals have found that blocking the activity of TNF or IL-1 decreases the severity of SIRS. The activity of TNF was blocked using TNF neutralizing antibodies or soluble TNF receptors. IL-1 activity was blocked using soluble IL-1 receptors or IL-1 receptor antagonists.
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Article Abstract:
Analyzing changes in the endothelium of a transplanted heart may reveal signs of developing coronary artery disease. The endothelium is the layer of cells that lines the inside of the heart and blood vessels. A 1997 study found that analysis of endothelial biopsies could predict which patients would develop recurrent coronary artery disease in the transplanted heart. The endothelium becomes activated and this appears to be caused by antibodies against the donor heart. Most immunosuppressive drugs suppress T cell production but not antibody production. A drug that suppresses antibody production could be useful in these patients.
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Article Abstract:
An abnormal immune response in women with recurring pregnancy loss has not been proved as a cause of the condition. A study suggests that peripheral blood mononuclear cells produce a T-helper 1-type response to antigens in women with recurring pregnancy loss, while in normal pregnancies, a T-helper 2-type response occurs. However, this explanation does not account for the fact that 50% of spontaneously aborted embryos have some chromosomal abnormalities. The abnormal immunological response could be a result of the spontaneous abortion. The immune system is more complicated than the study suggests.
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