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B lymphocyte–induced maturation protein 1 (Blimp-1) is known as a 'master regulator' of plasma cell differentiation. New findings suggest that the influence of this transcription factor extends beyond the B cell lineage.
Contact hypersensitivity is a form of delayed-type hypersensitivity, a classic T cell–mediated, clinically important phenomenon. Unexpectedly, a new study indicates that natural killer cells may mediate contact hypersensitivity and demonstrate adaptive, memory-like activity.
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells selectively express Toll-like receptors 7 and 9 and respond to virus infection by triggering massive interferon production, a pathway regulated by osteopontin expressed in plasmacytoid dendritic cells.
Immunology had an unexpected and decisive part in challenging the claims of 'Intelligent Design' proponents at the US trial on the teaching of evolution in public schools in Dover, Pennsylvania.