Scientists have discovered a new type of cell in the immune system

A team of scientists in Melbourne have just discovered a new type of cell in the immune system. Their findings could ultimately lead to the development of novel drugs that strengthen the immune response against particular types of infectious organisms.

Together, they have identified a new type of cell in the immune system that can specifically target lipids, or fats, found in the cell walls of bacteria, including Mycobacteria.

The new cell type, a kind of white blood cell, belongs to a family of T-cells that play a critical role in protection against infectious disease.

They say the findings could also be significant for many other important diseases, such as: allergies, cancer and coronary heart disease.

While the immune system is known to focus on proteins from viruses and bacteria, some T-cells in the immune system (known as NKT cells) can recognise lipid-based molecules. As such, there is great enthusiasm for the potential of these lipid-sensing T-cells in the development of novel vaccines.

Scientists have discovered a new type of cell in the immune system

Very good news!

The vaccine aspect of it is interesting, but I am more curious about what foods and herbs promote the production of these cells.

Good post OP you have given me plenty of reading to do...

Very good news.

Until big pharma gets their hands on it.