Researchers found that T cells in the tonsils are different from T cells in blood. The team at Washington University in St. Louis studied cells from people who had a tonsillectomy. The donors were different ages, from infants to adults.
The group used single-cell methods to look at many T cells from tonsils and blood. They say that tissue sites like the tonsils can change how T cells act. Because of this, doctors and scientists should check tissue T cells when they evaluate vaccines and immunotherapies.
Difficult words
- researcher — person who studies things and finds informationResearchers
- tonsil — small organs at the back of the throattonsils
- donor — person who gives something for use or studydonors
- single-cell — method that studies one cell at a time
- tissue — parts of the body made of similar cells
- evaluate — to judge how good or effective something is
- vaccine — medicine that helps the body make protectionvaccines
- immunotherapy — treatment that uses the immune system to fight diseaseimmunotherapies
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Related articles
Affordable twice-yearly HIV injection lenacapavir to reach 120 countries
Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly HIV prevention injection, will be licensed for 120 low- and middle-income countries at US$40 a year. Rollout is expected from 2027 with funding support, but some countries and price transparency remain concerns.
Why African Men Should Get Tested for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a major health issue for African men. Early testing can help improve survival rates.
Climate shocks, crop losses and health risks in Africa
Climate shocks in parts of Africa are hurting crops and helping pests and mosquitoes spread. Farmers face failed harvests and public health risks like malaria and cholera, while experts call for better infrastructure and funding.
Study warns of heavier rain and hotter nights in Tanzania
New research warns parts of Tanzania will see more extreme rainfall and rising temperatures. Experts say farmers, health and cities will be affected and call for stronger national policies, preparedness and community climate finance.
Mechanical tipping point behind sudden fibrosis
Scientists found a mechanical "tipping point" that makes groups of cells switch quickly from healthy to fibrotic states. Collagen fibers, cell spacing and crosslinking control this abrupt change and affect how far mechanical signals travel.
Antibody therapy clears traces of multiple myeloma
A phase 2 trial found that an antibody drug, linvoseltamab, removed detectable disease in patients with multiple myeloma using very sensitive bone marrow tests. Researchers report acceptable safety and will expand the trial.