Rare disease gives clues for glandular fever
Scientists have found new clues in the search for a vaccine against glandular fever.
For the unfortunate few born with the rare immunodeficiency known as X-linked lymphoproliferative disease (XLP), infection with the saliva-borne Epstein Barr virus, which causes glandular fever, can be fatal.
Australian immunologists have now discovered why, and while their finding does not point to an immediate cure for XLP, it does give insight to enhance normal immunity to EBV in the future – with vaccines or prophylactic medicines.
Dr Umaimainthan Palendira and A/Prof Stuart Tangye, Garvan Institute of Medical Research
