Researchers at the University of San Francisco have developed synthetic T-cells that act as immune ‘referees’ to mitigate excessive immune responses, potentially preventing organ rejection and reducing reliance on immunosuppressive drugs. Led by Professor Wendell Lim, this breakthrough could benefit diabetes type 1 patients by allowing for the transplantation of pancreatic islet cells without the need for strong immunosuppressants. The team’s modifications have shown promise in protecting these cells from immune attacks, potentially transforming treatment approaches for autoimmune diseases and enhancing CAR T-cell therapies.