Vanderbilt University Study: How Fever Affects Immune Cells and Cancer Risk
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Centre have discovered that fever temperatures can boost immune cell activity but also cause stress and damage to certain T cells. This study, published in Science Immunology, explores how heat affects cells and its link to cancer development. Jeff Rathmell, a professor at Vanderbilt, explained that while fever can enhance immune response, it can also lead to mitochondrial stress and DNA damage in Th1 cells, a type of helper T cell.
Understanding the Impact of Fever
Graduate student Darren Heintzman, motivated by personal experiences, found that culturing T cells at 39°C increased their metabolism and activity. However, it also caused stress and damage in Th1 cells, leading to some cell death. Interestingly, surviving Th1 cells adapted and became more resilient.
Implications for Chronic Inflammation and Cancer
The study suggests that chronic inflammation with high tissue temperatures might contribute to cancer, as cells under stress may not repair DNA damage properly. Rathmell noted that while mild fever can be beneficial, prolonged high fever can be harmful.
Doubts Revealed
Vanderbilt University -: Vanderbilt University is a famous school in the United States where people study and do research on many topics, including health and science.
Immune Cells -: Immune cells are special cells in our body that help fight off germs and keep us healthy. They are like tiny soldiers that protect us from getting sick.
Th1 Cells -: Th1 cells are a type of immune cell that helps our body fight infections. They are part of a larger group of cells called T cells, which are important for our immune system.
Science Immunology -: Science Immunology is a magazine where scientists share their new discoveries about the immune system. It’s like a special book for people who study how our body fights diseases.
Chronic Inflammation -: Chronic inflammation is when parts of our body stay swollen and red for a long time. This can sometimes lead to other health problems, like cancer.
Cancer Development -: Cancer development is when cells in the body start to grow in a way that is not normal. This can lead to the formation of lumps or tumors, which can be dangerous.
