Central Tolerance in Primary Lymphoid Organs

central tolerance in the thymus

In this article, I briefly describe the central tolerance in primary lymphoid organs. Central tolerance is a fundamental immunological mechanism that ensures self-tolerance by regulating lymphocyte development. It is established within primary lymphoid organs, where self-reactive T and B lymphocytes are eliminated, modified, or redirected into regulatory pathways. This process is essential for maintaining immune … Read more >>

Role of Fc Receptors in Antibody Effector Functions

Human Fc receptors

In this article, I briefly describe the role of Fc receptors in antibody effector functions. Fc receptors (FcRs) are specialized cell-surface receptors that bind to the Fc region of antibodies and link humoral immunity with cellular immune responses. By interacting with different antibody classes, FcRs regulate key immune functions, such as phagocytosis, cytotoxicity, inflammation, and … Read more >>

Type I Hypersensitivity and the Role of Genes and Environment in Allergy

Development-of-IgE-dependent-food-allergy

In this article, I briefly describe how genetic predisposition and environmental exposures interact to drive the development of Type I hypersensitivity (allergic) diseases. Type I hypersensitivity, commonly known as allergy, is an IgE-driven immune disorder characterized by exaggerated responses to otherwise harmless environmental antigens. Its development is influenced by a complex interaction between genetic predisposition … Read more >>

Induction of Immune Tolerance in Organ Transplantation

In this article, I briefly describe the induction of immune tolerance in organ transplantation. The process of organ transplantation remains limited by immune-mediated graft rejection, prompting extensive efforts to understand and control host immune responses. Allograft Acceptance Without Immunosuppression The recipient’s immune system may occasionally accept an allograft with minimal or no immunosuppressive therapy. This … Read more >>

Therapeutic Approaches to Immune Suppression

blocking co-stimulatory signals

In this article, I briefly describe the types of therapeutic approaches to immune suppression. Therapeutic approaches to immune suppression encompass a broad range of strategies designed to prevent or modulate the host’s immune response against transplanted tissues. These interventions target key cellular and molecular pathways involved in allorecognition, aiming to preserve graft function while minimizing … Read more >>

The Immunology Behind Graft Rejection

hyperacute rejection

In this article, I briefly describe the immunological mechanisms underlying graft rejection. Graft rejection is a complex immune reaction in which the recipient’s immune system identifies the transplanted tissue as foreign and mounts a defense against it. Understanding the immunological pathways underlying this response, from T-cell activation to antibody-mediated injury, is essential for improving transplant … Read more >>

Pre-Transplantation Tests for Organ Transplantation

ABO blood group

In this article, I briefly describe the pre-transplantation tests necessary before organ transplantation. Transplantation success depends primarily on the immune compatibility between the donor and recipient. Because the immune system is designed to recognize and attack foreign tissues, several detailed tests are required to minimize the risk of graft rejection. These compatibility assessments form the … Read more >>

Immunotherapies Redefining Cancer Treatment

Sipuleucel-T-a prostate cancer vaccine

In this article, I briefly describe various immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer. These therapies focus on stimulating the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immunotherapies work by generating signals or immune cells that direct the body’s defense mechanisms toward effectively targeting and eliminating tumors. Toward Immunotherapy There are many therapies adapted for … Read more >>

Tumor Immune Escape Mechanisms and Apoptotic Resistance

Down-regulation of MHC-class-I expression

In this article, I briefly describe tumor immune escape mechanisms and apoptotic resistance. Tumor cells evade immune surveillance and resist apoptosis through multiple interconnected mechanisms, promoting survival and progression. Understanding these strategies is essential for advancing effective cancer immunotherapies. The Dual Role of Immune Response The immune system operates through a delicate balance of activating … Read more >>

Quantitative Cell Analysis Using Flow Cytometry

flow cytometry setup

In this article, I briefly describe quantitative cell analysis using flow cytometry. Flow Cytometry Flow cytometry, first developed in the early 1980s by Leonore Herzenberg and colleagues, quickly emerged as a powerful analytical tool in cell biology and immunology. One of its earliest and most significant applications was the analysis of lymphocyte subpopulations in patients … Read more >>