I like to read. A lot. A little bit of everything. Science, novels, essays, biographies. During the first months of 2020, I have read 30 books (here the complete list until now). For this summer-time blog entry, I will recommend three readings. An original article, a review article, and a book. Excellent material for those who can go to the beach!
- An article: A few weeks ago in Nature, researchers from Yale University published a paper on the pro-inflammatory protein interleukin 18 (IL-18). Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes overexpress components of the IL-8 signaling pathway. At the same time, high amounts of IL-18BP, an IL-18 “decoy” receptor that inhibits its activity, can be found in several mouse and human tumor types. The group also developed a modified form of IL-18 that does not bind to IL-18BP and has impressive anti-tumor potency. One of the authors of the article is Miguel Fernandez de Sanmamed, who is now back in Pamplona. Excellent Golden Boy!
- A review article: anti-PD1 antibodies are considered a revolution in the treatment of cancer patients. The results in overall survival, quality of life, and response rate are very encouraging. Unfortunately, some patients do not benefit from immunotherapy, or the disease progresses quickly after being under control for a while. Antoni Ribas published a comprehensive review of the causes of primary and secondary resistance to checkpoint inhibitor therapy earlier this year. In the text, he describes different molecular pathways such as beta-catenin or JAK-STAT and their impact on immunostimulant antibodies’ action.
- A book. The best book that has passed through my hands this year is “El infinito en un junco” by Irene Vallejo. It’s a book about books, a meta book. It describes the origin of writing beautifully and the transition from papyrus, parchment, and paper through time. Vallejo’s masterpiece is a highly recommended reading that mentions various literary works. This book reminded me of the villain in “The Name of the Rose.” I hope nobody wants to eliminate laughter.
- Bonus. Albert Camus wrote “The Plague” over 70 years ago. It’s still in force. The end is very suggestive “to finish, and here end the notes of Tarrou, that there was always an hour in the day when the man is a coward and that he was only afraid at that hour.”
The pandemic continues. Books, family, and friends make it more bearable. See you next time!