‘New’ molecules have great potential

Thousands of “overlooked” immune system molecules may have potential in immunotherapy and vaccine development, say scientists.

The UK researchers believe the discovery is akin to finding a “new continent”.

The molecules are small fragments of proteins from foreign bodies and malfunctioning or infected cells that are displayed like flags on cell surfaces.

If these “epitopes” are recognised as foreign or “wrong” by the immune system, the cells or bacteria bearing them are attacked and destroyed.

Scientists identified thousands of previously unknown epitopes. The findings could improve understanding of the immune system and provide targets for immunotherapy or vaccine drugs.