Protecting us from our cells: Research could speed trials to treat auto-immune diseases

22 octubre 2014

Our immune system defends us from harmful bacteria and viruses, but, if left unchecked, the cells that destroy those invaders can turn on the body itself, causing auto-immune diseases like type-1 diabetes or multiple sclerosis. A molecule called insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) boosts the body’s natural defense against this ‘friendly fire’, scientists have found. The findings are especially exciting because IGF-1 is already approved for use in patients, which could speed up the move to clinical trials for treating auto-immune diseases.
http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/~3/ZdiZbVpyEIc/141022084254.htm

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