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Immunobiology and Cancer Research Program

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OMRF researchers solve decades-old riddle

Paul W. Kincade, Ph.D. Member and Program Chair, Immunobiology and Cancer Research   Program William H. and Rita Bell Chair in Biomedical Research Adjunct Professor, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of   Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

The research in my laboratory focuses on the development of the immune system. That is, we are learning how highly specialized cells that we call "soldiers of the immune system" are produced. Formally called lymphocytes, these cells are produced in two types of factories: the bone marrow and thymus. Lymphocytes migrate throughout the body and work together in teams to keep us healthy. However, they eventually grow tired and must constantly be replaced. We have learned that they are produced in large numbers throughout life and have discovered that many proteins and hormones such as estrogen are responsible for carefully controlling lymphocyte production. Abnormalities in this vital process result in immune deficiency diseases, autoimmunity and cancers such as leukemias and lymphomas.

We recently discovered new cell types that we believe have very special jobs in the immune system. Additionally, our research team found a new way the body springs into action during times of infection. We discovered that even stem cells can recognize bacterial and viral products. Stem cells in bone marrow quickly respond by producing new cells that function in what is called "innate immunity." This represents an important new way the bone marrow can replenish our first lines of defense. On the other hand, we have new evidence that chronic infections may prematurely age the immune system. Further study should reveal how the process works and might suggest ways to protect against one kind of age-related deterioration.