New Study Reveals T Cells' Potential Against Measles and Nipah Viruses
Cross-reactive T cells target measles and dangerous Nipah viruses
Image: Medical News
Researchers at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered that T cells can target both measles and Nipah viruses, offering a potential broad protection strategy against paramyxoviruses. This finding could lead to new vaccine approaches that activate cross-reactive T cells, essential in addressing emerging viral threats.
- 01The study shows that activating cross-reactive T cells can provide protection against the paramyxovirus family, which includes measles and Nipah viruses.
- 02Measles has seen a resurgence in cases in the U.S., with 2,033 confirmed cases in 2026 alone.
- 03Nipah virus, with a fatality rate of 40% to 75%, poses a significant threat, particularly in Southeast Asia.
- 04The research identified a specific epitope shared between measles and Nipah viruses, which could be targeted for broader vaccine development.
- 05Cross-reactive T cells may allow for a single vaccination strategy to combat multiple viral threats.
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A recent study from the La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) has revealed that T cells can effectively target both the measles virus and the Nipah virus, two members of the paramyxovirus family. This discovery is crucial as paramyxoviruses pose significant pandemic risks, with measles being highly infectious and Nipah virus having a high mortality rate. The researchers found that activating 'cross-reactive' T cells could provide broader protection against various viruses, which is vital in unpredictable outbreak scenarios. The study analyzed blood samples from 31 participants vaccinated with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, revealing that certain T cells could recognize epitopes shared between measles and Nipah viruses. This finding suggests that during a Nipah outbreak, administering the measles vaccine could potentially offer some protective benefits due to this cross-reactivity. The research, supported by the National Institutes of Health and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, highlights the importance of T cells in combating emerging viral threats.
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The study's findings could influence vaccination strategies in the U.S. and globally, particularly in areas at risk for measles and Nipah outbreaks.
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