Study Overview
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) produce type I interferon and function as a command center for the immune system, activating all immune cells. There are several types of type I interferons, including IFN-α, IFN-β, IFN-ε, IFN-κ, and IFN-ω.
We identify and evaluate substances that activate pDCs through multi-sample pDC activation screening tests, detailed in vitro tests using differentiated pDCs, and highly sensitive biomarker analysis using human samples. It is effective in boosting the body’s immune defense against viruses.
Study example
The figure above shows the results of an in vitro assay using cells.
As shown in the left graph, the pDC activation marker (CD86) is activated by the test substance.
As shown in the right graph, it can be seen that INF-α is produced by pDCs in response to the test substance.
The figure above shows the results of a study analyzing human blood.
In the left graph, CD86 activity in the blood was higher in the group that consumed functional food A compared to the placebo group.
In the right graph, serum INF-α levels were higher in the group that consumed functional food A compared to the placebo group.
*Studies will be mainly conducted by those with doctoral degrees.
