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Scientists identify mechanism behind mind-body connection
http://www. physorg. com/ news135352171. html
July 15, 2008
Each cell contains a tiny clock called a telomere, which shortens every time the cell divides. Shortened telomeres are associated with a range of human diseases, including HIV, osteoporosis, heart disease, and aging. Previous research has shown that an enzyme called telomerase within the cell keeps immune cells young by protecting the length of their telomeres and their ability to continue dividing.
UCLA scientists have discovered that the stress hormone cortisol can suppress the ability of immune cells to activate their telomerase. This may explain why people under chronic stress have cells with shorter telomeres.
This study reveals how stress makes people more susceptible to illness. The findings also suggest a potential drug target that could protect the immune systems of those under chronic stress, such as caregivers of family members with chronic illnesses, astronauts, soldiers, air traffic controllers, and long-distance commuters.
"When the body is under stress, it boosts production of cortisol to support the 'fight or flight' response," explained Rita Effros, a professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and a member of the Jonsson Cancer Center, Molecular Biology Institute, and UCLA AIDS Institute.
"If this hormone remains elevated in the bloodstream for a long time, it can weaken the immune system. We are testing treatments that increase telomerase levels to help the immune system resist the effects of cortisol. If we succeed, one day there may be a pill that strengthens the immune system's ability to withstand long-term emotional stress."
This research was published in the May issue of the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity.
Source: http:/ / only- perception. blogs……/ 2008/ 07/ blog- post_2876. html
Scientists Confirm Link between Stress and Immunity
http://www. physorg. com/ news135352171. html
July 15, 2008
Each cell contains a tiny clock called a telomere, which shortens every time the cell divides. Shortened telomeres are associated with a range of human diseases, including HIV, osteoporosis, heart disease, and aging. Previous research has shown that an enzyme called telomerase within the cell keeps immune cells young by protecting the length of their telomeres and their ability to continue dividing.
UCLA scientists have discovered that the stress hormone cortisol can suppress the ability of immune cells to activate their telomerase. This may explain why people under chronic stress have cells with shorter telomeres.
This study reveals how stress makes people more susceptible to illness. The findings also suggest a potential drug target that could protect the immune systems of those under chronic stress, such as caregivers of family members with chronic illnesses, astronauts, soldiers, air traffic controllers, and long-distance commuters.
"When the body is under stress, it boosts production of cortisol to support the 'fight or flight' response," explained Rita Effros, a professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and a member of the Jonsson Cancer Center, Molecular Biology Institute, and UCLA AIDS Institute.
"If this hormone remains elevated in the bloodstream for a long time, it can weaken the immune system. We are testing treatments that increase telomerase levels to help the immune system resist the effects of cortisol. If we succeed, one day there may be a pill that strengthens the immune system's ability to withstand long-term emotional stress."
This research was published in the May issue of the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity.
Source: http:/ / only- perception. blogs……/ 2008/ 07/ blog- post_2876. html