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 >>

Conventional Imaging Techniques Based on Immunofluorescence

Optical path in a fluorescence microscope

In this article, I briefly describe the conventional imaging techniques based on immunofluorescence. These techniques use fluorescently labeled antibodies to visualize specific proteins or other biomolecules within cells and tissues. These methods provide valuable insights into cellular structure, localization of molecules, and biological processes under a microscope. Fluorescence-Based Antibody Imaging Techniques Fluorescence microscopy allows precise … Read more >>

The Role of Invariant Chain in MHC Class II Trafficking and Immune Defense

Antigenic peptide generation

In this article, I briefly describe the role of the invariant chain in guiding the transport of class-II MHC molecules from the rough endoplasmic reticulum to late endosomes. It plays a role in immune defense. The Invariant Chain: An essential chaperone in antigen presentation The immune system functions through a finely tuned interplay of molecules … Read more >>

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infects Its Host by Using Co-receptors

Structure of HIV

In this article, I briefly describe how HIV infects its host by using its coreceptors. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a severe immunodeficiency caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This syndrome was first recognized because of opportunistic infections in a cluster of individuals in the USA in 1981. This group … Read more >>

Various Factors Cause Secondary Immunodeficiencies

In this article, I briefly describe various factors causing secondary immunodeficiencies. Secondary Immunodeficiencies Inherited genetic defects give rise to primary immunodeficiency, whereas secondary immunodeficiency is acquired. The loss of immune function results from exposure to an external agent. These external agents include many diseases and infections, medical treatments with immunosuppressive drugs, and social conditions that … Read more >>

Replacement Therapy Treats Immunodeficiency Disorders

Cell replacement therapy

In this article, I briefly describe various replacement therapies that treat immunodeficiency disorders. Treatment For Immunodeficiencies There are many treatment options available for immunodeficiency disorders, but no reliable treatment is available for them. Besides using antimicrobial agents or resorting to the extreme measure of complete isolation from opportunistic pathogens, immunodeficiencies can be managed through replacement … Read more >>