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The one lymphocyte–one receptor idea is challenged by the recent finding of B cells capable of producing two functional immunoglobulin molecules. Such cells that survive selection might potentially contribute to autoimmunity.
Dendritic cell subsets are thought to become committed to the dendritic cell lineage once they have differentiated from lymphoid or myeloid lineage precursors. However, this tenet has been challenged by data showing plasticity among the different subsets.
The interaction between dendritic cells and T cells is critical for induction of appropriate immune responses. Visualization of their interaction in intact lymph nodes provides insight into the process of generating immunity or tolerance.
Immunoglobulin class-switch recombination occurs in both frogs and mammals. A new study shows that the recognition mechanism used for the targeting of switch sequences might be evolutionary conserved.
Rabbits are the only animals susceptible to myxoma virus. The induction of interferon α/β by myxoma virus in nonpermissive mouse cells seems to be crucial to maintaining this species restriction.
The present shortage in the US influenza vaccine supply has finally focused public attention on recurrent problems faced by public health officials in ensuring the availability of many vaccines.