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Universal Cancer Immunotherapy May Be Possible Through Protein Engineering | The Optimist Daily

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Oncology medicine and cancer treatment concept as a tumor or tumour being treated with white blood cells attacking the disease as an immunotherapy 3D illustration.

Scientists at ETH Zurich have made significant progress in developing a ready-to-use immunotherapy treatment for cancer. A synthetic protein modification can allow immune cells from any donor to be delivered to any patient without the risk of an adverse immunological reaction.

What is immunotherapy?

The human immune system is a robust first line of defense against disease, but cancer has a few sneaky tricks up its sleeve that allow it to hide and avoid elimination. Immunotherapy is a new treatment that gives the immune system the upper hand by supercharging a patient’s immune cells to seek out and destroy cancers.

Typically, the approach involves extracting a patient’s immune cells, genetically modifying them to spot cancer, and reintroducing them into the body. Not only does this require time, which many cancer patients lack, but it isn’t always practical if a patient’s immune system isn’t up to the task.

Immune cells from a healthy patient would be ideal, but this comes with its own set of challenges. Because immune cells are adept at recognizing and attacking “foreign” cells, donated cells frequently end up targeting the recipient’s healthy cells.

What is TCR-CD3?

The ETH Zurich researchers discovered a solution to potentially overcome this obstacle in the latest study, paving the path for standardized, off-the-shelf immunotherapy. The researchers focused on a specific chemical combination known as TCR-CD3, located on the surface of killer T cells, and activate them towards specific antibodies – including both desired triggers such as cancer and unwanted ones on healthy cells.

The researchers developed a synthetic version of the TCR-CD3 complex that prevents killer T cells from attacking healthy cells while yet allowing them to be modified to target cancer cells. So far, laboratory tests on human cells have been positive, with no signs of harmful immunological responses.

While there is still much work to be done, such as testing in human patients, the team believes that the research will eventually lead to a standardized, off-the-shelf cancer therapy product that can be administered to any patient without the need to remove, engineer, and return their own immune cells. This would make it far less expensive, simpler, and faster to roll out to patients.

The researchers have applied for patents and intend to establish a spin-off company to assist in bringing the approach to the market.

The post Universal cancer immunotherapy may be possible through protein engineering first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

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What Went Right This Week: A Major Win For Climate Justice, Plus More

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Discover The Refreshing Benefits Of Mint Water, Your Summer Hydration Solution | The Optimist Daily

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Nothing beats a cool drink on a hot summer day. While sugary drinks may tempt you, there is a healthier option that promises to quench your thirst while also improving your health: mint water. Let’s explore the myriad reasons why you should make mint water a staple in your summer hydration routine.

Mint water: a summer essential

Mint water is a simple but refreshing mixture of water mixed with fresh mint leaves. Mint, which belongs to the Mentha plant family, has long been revered for its therapeutic benefits. Whether spearmint or peppermint, this aromatic plant offers a blast of flavor to your hydration routine, keeping you cool and energized all day.

The health benefits of mint water
Improves digestion

Mint water improves digestion by relaxing the digestive tract and relieving symptoms such as gas and bloating. According to research published in the journal Biology, peppermint has digestive advantages because it relaxes stomach muscles, encouraging better digestion.

Smooths out hormonal imbalances

Mint water may help control hormone levels, especially in cases of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). According to a study published in Biomolecular Concepts, spearmint has hormone-balancing qualities, which can help with hormonal abnormalities.

Keeps you hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for healthy physical processes, and mint water is a tasty alternative to ordinary water. By infusing water with mint, you improve its appeal while also guaranteeing appropriate hydration to promote general health.

Reduces stress

Mint’s relaxing characteristics make it a natural stress reliever. Incorporating mint water into your daily routine will help you relax and fight stress efficiently, enhancing mental health.

Helps you lose weight

Mint water is a delicious, low-calorie, sugar-free beverage that aids in weight loss. According to research published in the International Journal of Obesity, replacing sugary drinks with water can help people lose weight.

Boosts immunity 

Mint water is high in vitamins and antioxidants, which help to improve the immune system and defend against infections and illnesses. These nutrients support cellular defense processes, which protect your health.

Improves skin health

Mint’s salicylic acid and vitamin A concentration promote clear and bright skin. Mint water’s antimicrobial properties also aid with inflammation and acne, supporting skin health from the inside.

How to make mint water at home

Making mint water at home is an easy process. Simply follow these steps.

– Rinse fresh mint leaves thoroughly.

– Place the leaves into a pitcher or container.

– Fill the container with water and allow it to soak for several hours or overnight.

– Chill the mint-infused water for a cool, pleasant beverage.

Potential side effects and precautions

While mint water has various health benefits, it is important to exercise caution, particularly if you have certain medical issues. Mint water may aggravate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in some people. Consult your doctor before adding mint water to your diet, especially if you have severe digestive or kidney problems.

This summer, embrace the stimulating deliciousness of mint water and up your hydration game with a delightful combination of taste and well-being!

 

The post Discover the refreshing benefits of mint water, your summer hydration solution first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

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The Muslim Women Walking For Mental Health

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