Flow cytometry characterization of antigen-specific polyfunctional T cells is a valuable tool to study adaptive immunity. Here, we present a protocol for flow cytometry immunophenotyping of human antigen-specific T cells by activation-induced marker (AIM) and Th1 cytokine detection. We describe steps for preparing peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for stimulation followed by washing and staining PBMCs for flow cytometry.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFLoneliness has reached epidemic proportions, affecting nearly one-in-two adults in the United States and is particularly potent in sexually minoritized men (SMM). Individual differences in optimism and pessimism may exert protective or maladaptive effects for the impact of discrimination on loneliness. This study investigated interrelationships between optimism/pessimism, discrimination, and loneliness within a sample of sexual minoritized men (SMM).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFGlutamine metabolism is essential for T cell activation and functions. The inhibition of glutaminolysis impairs Th17 cell differentiation and alters Th1 cell functions. There is evidence for an active glutaminolysis in the immune cells of lupus patients.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFDue to multiple minority statuses, transgender women of color are exposed to minority stress through distal (external) stressors from society causing proximal (internal) stress, leading to potentially negative physical and mental health outcomes. Often considered allies to the transgender community, cisgender members of the LGBTQIA+ "community" have historically presented different plights resulting in divergent rights, protections, and societal views. Guided by the minority stress framework, a secondary analysis of individual interviews and focus groups ( = 20) with transgender women of color was performed.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFObjective: This study sought to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of the Happy Older Latinos are Active (HOLA) health promotion intervention in a group of older Latinos who were at risk for developing major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder.
Method: Sixty older Latinos age 60+ with subthreshold depression or anxiety were randomized to receive either HOLA (n = 30) or enhanced psychoeducation through control ( = 30). The primary outcomes of interest were feasibility, acceptability, and reduction in depression and anxiety symptom severity.