When it comes down to it, it's your immune system versus the world. From "innate" immunity — which protects your body against basic threats — to "adaptive" immunity, which homes in on specific targets, your immune system has you covered. Sometimes, however, your immune system can turn against you, leading to autoimmune diseases. To keep up with all things immune, check here for the latest news.
Latest about Immune System
Why are some people's mosquito bites itchier than others'? New study hints at answer
A previously unrecognized type of immune cell may be responsible for the itchy feeling brought on by bug bites and other allergic reactions.
Scientists breed most human-like mice yet
Scientists have bred mice that are just like us — at least in terms of their immune systems.
Master regulator of inflammation found — and it's in the brain stem
Research in mice suggests that specific neurons within the brain stem act like the dial on a thermostat — fine-tuning inflammation as and when required.
Women have 4 times men's rate of autoimmune disease. The X chromosome may be to blame.
A "complex" that regulates gene activity in people with two X chromosomes may predispose them to autoimmune disease, a new study hints.
Why is snot sticky?
The glue-like mucus in your nose plays an important role in your immune system.
Inflammation is a 'mismatch between our evolutionary history and modern environment,' says immunologist Ruslan Medzhitov
In this interview, immunologist Ruslan Medzhitov explains how fundamental inflammation is, why it often goes wrong, and whether there's anything we can do about chronic inflammation.
'If you don't have inflammation, then you'll die': How scientists are reprogramming the body's natural superpower
Inflammation can be both a superhero and a villain, depending on the context. Rather than eliminating it completely, new treatments are trying to redirect it.
An immunologist explains why the immune system works best when balanced, not 'boosted'
Disease can arise both when immune cells are too active and when they're not active enough.
