How Lung Cells Induce Immune Response to Flu: New Study Reveals Key Mechanism

Influenza viruses are a major cause of respiratory illness worldwide, and can be especially dangerous for young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems. These viruses primarily target respiratory epithelial cells, which line the airways and lungs. When the virus infects these cells, it can cause cell damage and death.

How Lung Cells Induce Immune Response to Flu

However, scientists have recently discovered that respiratory epithelial cells are not merely passive victims of the flu virus. In fact, these cells play an important role in driving the antiviral immune response.

A New Study

A recent study published in the journal iScience has shed new light on the mechanisms by which lung cells induce an immune response to the flu virus. The study, conducted by researchers at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland, found that two different molecular pathways are involved in this process.

Also Read : Know the Benefits of Beetroot for our Heart And Whole Body

The first pathway is triggered by viral RNA. When the virus enters the cell, it releases its RNA into the cytoplasm. This RNA then binds to a protein called RIG-I, which activates a cascade of signaling events that lead to the production of gasdermin D. Gasdermin D is a protein that forms pores in the cell membrane, which allows the release of cytokines, a type of signaling molecule that activates the immune system.

The second pathway is triggered by the influenza virus itself. The virus has a protein called NS1, which can bind to a protein called IRF3. This binding activates IRF3, which then triggers the production of gasdermin E. Gasdermin E also forms pores in the cell membrane, and it also causes cell death.

Also Read : How to make Money by Investing

The Importance of This Finding

The finding that two different molecular pathways are involved in the induction of the antiviral immune response by lung cells is important for several reasons. First, it provides new insights into how the immune system fights the flu virus. Second, it suggests that targeting these pathways could be a way to develop new antiviral therapies. Third, it raises the possibility that the same pathways may be involved in the immune response to other respiratory viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2 and RSV.

Conclusion

This study provides new insights into the mechanisms by which lung cells induce an immune response to the flu virus. These findings could lead to the development of new antiviral therapies and could also help us to better understand the immune response to other respiratory viruses.

Also Read : How AI is Dangerous for Humans

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions or concerns about the flu, please talk to your doctor.

I hope this article is helpful and informative.