Stanford scientists discover immune cells that explode like microscopic bombs
Stanford researchers discovered immune cells in flatworms that explode within minutes, killing nearby bacteria and foreign cells before vanishing completely. Their unusually fast and localized attack could offer clues for developing targeted treatments against infections and cancer.
Stanford scientists have discovered a unique immune cell called ruptoblasts that destroys nearby cells through an explosive process. These cells, named for their dramatic response to the hormone activin, can destroy cells within minutes. The discovery was made while studying planarian flatworms, known for their remarkable regenerative abilities.
When fused with other worms, these flatworms rejected foreign tissue and showed a similar inflammatory response to humans rejecting transplanted organs. The ruptoblasts release substances that kill surrounding cells, a process called ruptosis. This rapid and localized destruction could have implications for treatments targeting bacterial infections or tumors.
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