A research team led by Professor Riitta Lahesmaa has identified a new modulator for human regulatory T cells. This modulator has the ability to either enhance or suppress the immune response, opening up new possibilities for treating immune-mediated diseases. The Lahesmaa group, located at the Turku Bioscience Centre of the University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University in Finland, has made this significant discovery.
The T cells in our blood are essential for fighting against cancer, viruses, and bacteria. Certain regulatory T cells play a crucial role in controlling abnormal immune responses, and any disruption in their function can result in autoimmune diseases or cancer. Researchers at the Turku Bioscience Centre have identified a new RNA that regulates the growth and function of regulatory T cells. This long intergenic noncoding RNA (lincRNA) influences the levels of transcription factor FOXP3 and the suppressive function of human regulatory T cells by controlling the interleukin-2 receptor. This discovery has the potential to have a significant impact on the InFLAMES Research Flagship.The new discovery opens up possibilities for creating targeted treatments for autoimmune diseases and cancer. Regulatory T cells, which are already being investigated as a treatment for type 1 diabetes, could be enhanced using the newly identified lincRNA molecule. This could be beneficial in therapeutic applications. Professor Riitta Lahesmaa from the University of Turku in Finland highlights the potential for precision medicine treatments using this discovery. This is significant because cancer cells have the ability to evade the immune system by manipulating regulatory T cells.
Recent advancements in cancer treatment have led to the development of immune activator therapeutic monoclonal antibodies. These antibodies are designed to disrupt the process by which cancer cells hide from the immune system. Lahesmaa proposes that by targeting a new molecule called lincRNA, it may be possible to activate the immune system’s response to cancer without relying on expensive antibodies.
The expression of lincRNAs is specific to different tissues and cells, making it possible to precisely target and treat desired areas.
