Scientists Explore the Role of Newly Discovered Protein in Immune System Response

The recent discovery of the protein, HVCN1, may provide some insight into the mechanics of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and certain types of cancer.

Scientists at the University of Leicester published their findings in the journal of Nature Immunology.

The team was able to demonstrate HVCN1’s role in regulating antibody production through modulation of intracellular oxidation. When HVCN1 was not present, the immune system response was found to be blunted.

Researchers stated that the results were significant for the field of immunology and help to reveal how HCVN1 can be used as a target for therapies where activation of B cells need to be diminished.