Study Overview
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) help control the body’s immune system by sending signals that activate many kinds of immune cells. They produce special proteins called type I interferons, which help the body protect itself from viruses. There are several kinds of these interferons, such as IFN-α, IFN-β, IFN-ε, IFN-κ, and IFN-ω.
We test and find substances that can activate pDCs by using screening tests with many samples, detailed cell-based studies, and sensitive analysis of human samples. These studies help evaluate whether a substance may support the body’s natural defense against viral infections.
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.
