A protein in cells may be the key to treating inflammatory diseases

A new study discovered a specific protein that may turn on or off white blood cells, determining whether or not they work to stop inflammation.

These findings may be instrumental in formulation of new treatments for inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

Immune system cells called macrophages have the ability to force to decrease inflammation. The macrophages determine whether or not the area should be inflamed and alters the cell structure automatically.

The protein behind the macrophages is called IRF5, and it determine whether or not the inflammation should occur.

Researchers believe that effective suppression of the IRF5 protein may assist in treatment of several autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. On the other hand, boosting IRF5 levels may improve the immune system quality for some.

Authors of the study explain that it is vital to determine which genes affect cell action, especially in relation to specific diseases or illnesses.

The researchers concluded that IRF5 may be the underlying key for immune cell function, creating potential treatment options for many inflammatory diseases.

The study can be found in the Nature Immunology journal.