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.
Discussion questions
- Have you or someone you know had a tonsillectomy? How old were they?
- Why is it important to study cells from body tissues and not only blood?
- Do you think doctors should check tissue cells when they test vaccines? Why or why not?
Related articles
Wearable 10‑Minute Antibody Sensors from University of Pittsburgh
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh made a wearable biosensor that detects antibodies in interstitial fluid in 10 minutes without a blood draw. The tiny carbon nanotube sensors are highly sensitive and the work appears in Analytical Chemistry.
Mindfulness helps couples under financial stress
A University of Georgia study of over 400 couples with children found that higher mindfulness links to greater confidence the relationship will survive stress. Mindfulness also related to better relationship quality and stronger co-parenting.
People learn to use robotic leg prostheses but misjudge their gait
A four-day study found that people who practised with a robotic lower‑limb prosthesis improved their walking but misjudged their own movement. Researchers say better visual feedback could help users calibrate their body image and gait.
