US EditionThe Brain Fires up Immune Cells when Sick People Are Nearby
SWITZERLAND, JUL 28 – A study of 248 participants showed immune cells activate after seeing sick faces in virtual reality, indicating visual cues alone can trigger immune system responses.
- Amid growing interest in neuroimmune interactions, the study showed that participants exposed to sick-looking faces in virtual reality exhibited immune-related brain activity changes, said Camilla Jandus.
- Scientists at the University of Lausanne and University of Geneva recruited participants into a VR study where they reacted more strongly to sick-looking avatars moving into their personal space.
- During the VR trials, blood samples showed increased activity of innate lymphoid cells, suggesting the brain’s response may prime immune defenses, said Serino.
- Considering clinical applications, Camilla Jandus and colleagues are exploring VR stimuli to boost vaccination, modulate immunity in autoimmune diseases, or treat allergies, said Jandus.
- Projections suggest VR cues could prime immune responses, with Camilla Jandus, head of the Jandus Lab at the University of Geneva, noting the potential for future therapies.
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18 Articles
Your immune system activates just by seeing sick faces, research shows
When you see someone who looks sick, your brain doesn't wait for them to get close before sounding the alarm. In fact, just seeing signs of illness from a distance triggers your immune system to gear up for battle, according to a new study from Swiss researchers. — Read the rest The post Your immune system activates just by seeing sick faces, research shows appeared first on Boing Boing.
The immune system protects people from dangers, for example by fighting infections. Researchers in Switzerland have now shown how sensitive the body's defences react.
The sight of a coughing, sniveling person is enough, even if it is not real. A study shows: The body's own defences start at the smallest hint of an imminent infection.
Persons with symptoms of illness not only alert the brain. In addition, an immune reaction can be detected in the blood
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