Immunology & Immune Therapies

Leveraging the Immune System for Innovative Therapeutics

Immunology studies the immune system, its role in defending against pathogens, and its involvement in diseases. Innovations like antibody engineering, CAR-T cells, and vaccines advance treatments for cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infections. By harnessing immune responses, this field drives transformative therapies and deepens understanding of immune function in health and disease.
What are monoclonal antibodies, and how are they used in immunotherapy?
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are lab-engineered proteins designed to bind specifically to antigens on cancer cells or pathogens. In immunotherapy, they are used to target and neutralize disease-causing cells, block immune checkpoints, or deliver therapeutic agents, improving precision and effectiveness in treatment.
What is CAR-T cell therapy, and how does it work?
CAR-T cell therapy involves genetically modifying a patient’s T-cells to express a Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) that recognizes and attacks specific cancer cells. These engineered T-cells are expanded and reinfused into the patient to enhance the immune system’s ability to fight cancer.
What is the difference between innate and adaptive immunity?
Innate immunity provides a non-specific, immediate defense against pathogens, involving barriers like skin and immune cells such as macrophages. Adaptive immunity, on the other hand, is highly specific, creating targeted responses through T-cells, B-cells, and antibodies, and develops immunological memory for faster responses to future infections.
How do immune checkpoint inhibitors work in cancer treatment?
Immune checkpoint inhibitors block proteins like PD-1 or CTLA-4 that cancer cells use to evade immune detection. By inhibiting these checkpoints, the therapy “releases the brakes” on the immune system, allowing T-cells to effectively recognize and destroy cancer cells.
What are multiplex immunoassays, and why are they important in immunology research?
Multiplex immunoassays enable the simultaneous detection of multiple biomarkers (e.g., cytokines, proteins) in a single sample. This technology is critical for profiling immune responses, identifying disease biomarkers, and assessing the efficacy of immunotherapies in research and clinical settings.