Scientists in Australia have uncovered how human immune cells detect bacteria, a breakthrough that could inform the development of more effective vaccines and therapies.
Researchers at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity found that macrophages—immune cells known for engulfing pathogens—act as “couriers,” alerting the immune system to the presence of bacteria.
A media release from the institute on Wednesday explained that this process helps the body maintain a balance with beneficial gut bacteria while protecting against harmful ones.
Deng Jieru of the University of Melbourne, who conducted postdoctoral research at the Doherty Institute, said the study revealed that macrophages carry the highest amount of a molecule called MR1. This molecule captures chemical signals from bacteria and presents them to specialized immune cells known as MAIT cells.
“By using glowing ‘chemical messages,’ we showed that macrophages are the most efficient cells at picking up these messages and engaging MAIT cells to fight infections,” Deng said.
She added that the discovery is significant because MAIT cells can rapidly trigger powerful immune responses. Understanding how macrophages regulate this process could lead to the development of better vaccines and treatments for bacterial infections.
The study was published in Science.