Lymphocyte expansion molecule explained

Lymphocyte expansion molecule (LEXM) is a protein discovered in 2015, found to be involved in immune responses (in mice) to some cancers and viruses.^[1] The protein was initially found to be responsible for an increased production of T cells in mice. The original paper has since been retracted upon recommendation of Imperial College's investigators due to concerns about duplication of data.^[2] The protein may be relevant to humans and could be a target for drug discovery.^{[3] [4]}

Scientists at Imperial College are developing a gene therapy based on this protein.^[5]

Notes and References

1. The protein LEM promotes CD8+ T cell immunity through effects on mitochondrial respiration . Science . 348 . 6238 . 995–1001 . 10.1126/science.aaa7516 . 25883318. Okoye at al. . April 2015. free . 10044/1/34339 . free .
2. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aal5242?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed Retraction. 2016
3. http://www.genengnews.com/gen-news-highlights/previously-unknown-protein-boosts-immunity-to-cancer-and-viruses/81251164/ Previously Unknown Protein Boosts Immunity to Cancer and Viruses. 2015
4. https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/gamechanging-new-way-to-fight-cancer-discovered-10183501.html 'Game-changing' new way to fight cancer discovered
5. Web site: Scientists find key to 'turbo-charging' immune system to kill all cancers. Knapton. Sarah. 16 April 2015. telegraph.co.uk. The Telegraph. 8 September 2017.