Researchers have discovered that some genes are associated with higher, better balanced production of immune cells in mice. As people age or become ill, their immune systems become less effective. Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) production of immune cells varies based on specific genes. The scientists identified nearly 40 genes that relate to immune cell production and discovered associations between the activity of these genes and the quantity and variety of immune cells produced. They believe that this information can be used to optimize bone marrow transplantation, for example, by selecting bone marrow cells with gene activity associated with high and balanced levels of immune cell production.
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