London, Jan 16: Scientists in the United States have identified a key gene involved in long-term immunity against infections in a finding that could play an important role in vaccine research.

Without the gene, called SAP, the immune system cannot recognise and react to pathogens, making people more vulnerable to diseases. ``So this gene is clearly important for immune responses. Our work shows that the SAP gene is a central player in long-term antibody responses, and indicates that manipulation of SAP may have therapeutic benefits in generating better antibody responses,`` said Shane Crotty of the Emory Vaccine Research Center in Georgia. Vaccines are usually given to healthy people to protect them from infection by bacteria, viruses or other pathogens. They work by stimulating the body`s own immune system to generate a response to the pathogen.

If it invades the body again the immune system should be able to remember it and fight it without the person getting ill.


Bureau Report