Advances in Nanoscale Imaging Reveal New Insights into the Human Immune System

Sun, 03 May 2026 18:09:00 +0200

At WIRED Health, immunologist Daniel Davis of Imperial College London highlighted how cutting-edge microscopy is revealing previously invisible nanoscale processes within the human immune system. These observations are transforming our understanding of how immune cells identify and respond to healthy versus diseased cells. His research, conducted in collaboration with Bristol Myers Squibb, examines how immune cells communicate through tiny protrusions and the immunological synapse, which involves protein molecules that trigger immune responses. By experimenting with reengineered antibodies that enhance these cellular signals, Davis's team aims to strengthen the immune system's ability to target cancer cells. While the research is still in early stages, it holds promise for future patient therapies. Davis also emphasized the highly individual nature of immune health, noting that genetic variations play a major role in how people respond to infections, more so than lifestyle factors alon