Flu infections can lead to deadly cytokine storm that sparks lung inflammation

Scientists at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) have mapped key elements of a severe immune overreaction - a "cytokine storm" - that can both sicken and kill patients who are infected with certain strains of flu virus.Their findings, published in the online Early Edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, also clarify the workings of a potent new class of anti-inflammatory compounds that prevent this immune overreaction in animal models.

Source: Health News from Medical News Today - March 4, 2014 Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Flu / Cold / SARS Source Type: news