ImmunoTea Episode 8 - Cytokine Biology and Translational Immunology
Aug 21, 2023
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Dr. Darragh Duffy, a translational immunology expert involved in the Milieu Interieur project, dives into the complexities of immune responses. He discusses the critical role of type 1 interferons in viral infections and their influence on autoimmune conditions, along with recent insights from COVID-19 research. The conversation also covers JAK inhibitors and their benefits for autoimmune diseases, the nuanced use of steroids in treatment, and groundbreaking research on immune diversity, all while keeping things engaging and light-hearted!
Type 1 interferons are critical for antiviral responses and are linked to autoimmune conditions, affecting the severity of diseases like COVID-19.
The Milieu Interieur project explores how genetics and lifestyle influence immune responses, aiming to improve diagnostics and treatments in immunology.
Deep dives
Understanding Type 1 Interferons
Type 1 interferons play a crucial role in the immune system, particularly in responding to viral infections. These cytokines were the first to be identified and are essential for the antiviral immune response, but they are also linked to various autoimmune conditions. Research indicates that individual differences in type 1 interferon responses can significantly influence the severity of diseases like COVID-19. Low levels of type 1 interferon in critical patients have been associated with worse clinical outcomes, emphasizing its importance in immune function.
Genetic Factors in Immune Responses
Research into inborn errors of immunity has revealed that genetic mutations may compromise individuals' type 1 interferon responses, increasing their risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes. Studies have shown that a significant proportion of critically ill patients harbor autoantibodies against type 1 interferon, particularly interferon alpha, which can inhibit the immune response. This autoimmune response becomes more prevalent with age, correlating with higher incidences of severe disease in older populations. Identifying these genetic factors could pave the way for preventive screenings in at-risk groups.
Advancements in Tailored Treatments
JAK inhibitors, which target specific signaling pathways downstream of cytokine receptors, are showing promise in treating autoimmune diseases by enhancing targeted immune responses. Compared to broad immunosuppressants like corticosteroids, JAK inhibitors offer a more precise approach by selectively modulating immune responses. However, there are risks of elevated infection rates due to the nature of immune modulation, highlighting the need for careful patient selection. The potential for new therapies suggests a shift toward personalized medicine, enhancing treatment effectiveness while minimizing adverse effects.
Exploring Immunological Variability
The Milieu-ontario project aims to investigate inter-individual differences in immune responses by analyzing a cohort of healthy individuals across various ages and lifestyles. Researchers are examining the impact of genetics, lifestyle factors, and environmental influences on immune variability, utilizing advanced techniques for cytokine measurement and immune cell profiling. Early findings show significant correlations between genetic polymorphisms, age, and sex in immune functions. The goal is to use these insights to improve diagnostics and treatment strategies in infectious diseases and immunological disorders.
On this episode Lara and Vyanka talk to Dr Darragh Duffy all about translational immunology and the Milieu Interieur project. This is ImmunoTea: Your Immunology Podcast, presented by Dr Lara Dungan and Dr Vyanka Redenbaugh. This is the show where we tell you all about the most exciting research going on in the world of immunology. So grab a cup of tea, sit down and relax and we'll fill you in. Contact us at ImmunoTeaPodcast@gmail.com or @ImmunoTea on twitter.