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New Vaccine Rejuvenates Immune System
18 Jun
Summary
- A new vaccine targets worn-out T-cells to boost immune function.
- Clinical trial aims to restore immune system's ability to fight disease.
- Potential to treat cancer, HIV, and dementia linked to immune ageing.
A groundbreaking clinical trial is set to evaluate a new vaccine designed to rejuvenate the human immune system, offering potential new avenues for treating diseases such as cancer, HIV, and dementia. This innovative jab targets T-cells, a crucial type of white blood cell that becomes less effective with age and chronic conditions, leaving individuals more susceptible to illness.
The therapy, developed by SenTcell in collaboration with University College London (UCL) Medicine, aims to restore the immune system's natural ability to identify and respond to threats. Dr. Alessio Lanna, founder of SenTcell, highlighted the need for such advancements, noting that while HIV treatments have improved longevity, many patients still experience accelerated immune aging, a pattern also observed in cancer and other chronic diseases.
Researchers are focusing on CD4+ T cells, vital for directing the immune response. These cells, and the telomeres protecting their chromosomes, shorten over time, marking biological aging. Previous studies suggest rejuvenated cells might influence other tissues, a hypothesis the trial seeks to explore in humans. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is supporting the research, with trials anticipated to commence later this year, focusing on adults with immune dysfunction or chronic viral infections.
