eMedicineLive

Stop before you pop an antipyretic, the next time that you have fever. This is because fever may actually help in the generation of T- cells which are important for developing immunity. Scientists have found that T- cells are more effective when the body temperature is elevated. This new research, led by Dr. Elizabeth A. Repasky from the Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York, has been published in the latest issue of the Journal of Leukocyte Biology.

 

Scientists have found that mild elevation in temperature helps in the generation and differentiation of CD8+ cytotoxic T- cells. Their cell function is enhanced because of the changes produced in their cell membranes as a result of hyperthermia. The researchers observed these changes when they injected a group of mice with an antigen. The core body temperature of half of the mice was raised by two degrees centigrade while the remaining half maintained a normal temperature. It was seen that the number of CD8 T- cells produced as an immune response to the antigen, was considerably higher in the mice with elevated body temperature. These CD8 T- cells possess the capacity to destroy the infected cells.

 

The findings of the study throw light on the beneficial effects of running a temperature. Earlier, the scientists used to believe, that fever is effective in checking the multiplication of the harmful bacteria. However, the important role that hyperthermia plays in the generation of effective T- cell mediated immune response was largely unknown. Since a long time, man has noticed that any infection or inflammation is accompanied with a rise in the body temperature. It is only now that the benefits of an elevated core temperature are being comprehended by the scientists. Though a very high temperature can be harmful and must be attended to urgently, mild fevers are best left untreated.

 

References:

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