An article published in NPJ Aging, a Springer Nature journal, reveals that natural production of auto-antibodies increases with age and that infection by SARS-CoV-2 can exacerbate production of auto-antibodies relating to auto-immune diseases, helping to explain why aging increases the chances of developing severe COVID-19.
Researchers across Europe have delved into the DNA methylation patterns in CD4+ T-cells of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients, unveiling potential new biomarkers for these conditions. Their study suggests that these unique profiles could serve as both diagnostic and prognostic tools, although further validation is needed for real-world clinical application.
Researchers at Washington University have demonstrated that early life exposure to multiple viruses in house mice dampens the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations later in life. The study raises concerns about the applicability of common mouse models in immunological research, suggesting that prior pathogen exposure could be a significant variable in predicting vaccine efficacy.
The study reveals a strong association between gut microbial carbohydrate metabolism and insulin resistance, pointing to gut microbes as a key player in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Targeting these microbial activities could offer a new therapeutic pathway for improving insulin resistance and overall metabolic health.