Research Keyword: Th17 cells

The progress of the microbe-gut-brain axis in sepsis-associated encephalopathy

Sepsis can cause brain dysfunction called sepsis-associated encephalopathy, leading to memory problems and confusion in about one-third to two-thirds of sepsis patients. The bacteria in your gut communicate with your brain through multiple pathways, and when sepsis disrupts this communication, it causes harmful inflammation in the brain. Treatments like probiotics and transplanting healthy gut bacteria from donors show promise in animal studies and early human trials for improving memory and cognitive function after sepsis.

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Abundant Yet Aberrant T Helper Cell Responses to Candida albicans Underlie Mucosal Candidiasis in Humans and Mice

Researchers studied how the immune system fights Candida albicans fungal infections. They found that a specific type of immune cell called Th17 cells is absolutely essential for controlling these infections, while other immune cells called Th2 cells actually make infections worse by blocking the protective Th17 cells. Patients with certain genetic mutations that affect how their immune system works have too many Th2 cells and not enough Th17 cells, making them vulnerable to chronic fungal infections. The study suggests that blocking a molecule called IL-4 could help restore the balance and improve patient outcomes.

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