A hair-trigger for cells fighting infection

(Babraham Institute) In response to infection the immune system produces unique antibodies to target each illness. To make these new antibodies, cells in the immune system must intentionally damage their own genes, meaning they run the risk of becoming cancer cells. New research from the Babraham Institute reveals how a proteins called Tia1 acts as a hair-trigger for DNA repair, allowing the immune system to walk the line between health and harm.
Source: EurekAlert! - Biology - Category: Biology Source Type: news