The so-called immunoproteasome is essential for the cellular immune response. In autoimmune diseases, however, it is overactive. Until now, it has not been possible to selectively inhibit the immunoproteasome without disrupting other cellular mechanisms. Now, researchers led by Helge Bode have developed a technique to manipulate the production of a natural bacterial substance, resulting in a novel, more selective drug. The results pave the way for more targeted inhibition of the immunoproteasome.
