We already know how incredible our body’s immune system is in attacking invading bacteria and viruses and restoring us to health following an ailment. Still, the current outcomes from a report by Cardiff University are positioned to bring a new and unforeseen advancement: halting cancer in its tracks.
Medical researchers uncovered a specific type of immune cell, a T-cell, found in our blood, which can scan and eliminate threats – including a wide selection of cancer cells: prostate, colon, kidney, lung, cervical, ovarian, blood, and numerous others. Yet, and most astoundingly, all normal tissue is left unchanged.
The newly uncovered T-cell works with a particular molecule on the surface of every cell within our body, known as the MR1 molecule. The hypothesis is that the MR1 alerts the T-cell of any cancer cell malformations. An essential part of the research team, Garry Dolton, states, “We are the first to describe a T-cell that finds MR1 in cancer cells – that hasn’t been done before; this is the first of its kind.”
There is currently a similar kind of treatment, called CAR-T, which has shown impressive outcomes in bringing individuals from a terminal status to complete remission. However, it’s only shown to be successful in certain cancer forms, not “solid cancers” (those that form tumors). This new development has been demonstrated to impact all forms of cancer. Here’s how it is projected to get results:
Blood is extracted from a patient diagnosed with cancer.
The blood is filtered to take out T-cells.
A specific variety of innocuous viruses is injected into the T-cells, allowing them to pick up on cancer cells.
These cells are then duplicated in a lab and put back into the individual.
Studies have been tremendously influential in animal trials, and with additional safety checks, the next phase will be human trials. But, as indicated by Daniel Davis, professor of immunology at the University of Manchester, “There is no question that it’s a fascinating discovery, both for advancing our basic knowledge about the immune system and the possibility of future new medicines.”
As we watch and wait for additional information on this advancement, you can count on Modern Health Home Care when it comes to the best quality care for individuals with cancer and other chronic conditions. Just a few of the many ways we can help include:
Meal Planning and Preparation, Specific to Any Dietary Restrictions or Difficulties
Friendly Companionship
Bathing and Dressing
Light Housekeeping & Laundry
Medication Reminders
Mobility Assistance
And more
Make the first step to a better quality of life for an older adult you love by contacting a leader among home health agencies in Philadelphia. Reach out to Modern Health Home Care at 215.995.2012 and request a free in-home assessment.
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