Tag: University of Minnesota

University of Minnesota turns natural killer cells against COVID-19

Developed into cancer fighting therapies, natural killer cells also have antiviral properties that could work against COVID-19.

A part of the immune system that appears to be suppressed in severe COVID-19 cases is now being used in a clinical trial against the infectious disease at the University of Minnesota.

A female COVID-19 patient in her 50s received an infusion on Wednesday with an experimental therapy containing natural killer (NK) cells, innate components of the immune system that can wipe out tumors or infected cells.

“They attack sick cells, and when we say sick that typically means malignant or virally infected cells,” said Dr. Joshua Rhein, the U physician leading the trial. Continue reading.

University of Minnesota, Edina and Rochester announce new face mask requirements

Officials at the University of Minnesota as well as the cities of Edina and Rochester on Monday announced new requirements on wearing face masks in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The Edina City Council decided to move forward with a policy requiring face masks in all city facilities and in any indoor public place where proper social distancing is difficult.

“While I personally don’t like the idea of a mandate, I think this is something we should do,” Mayor Jim Hovland said at the meeting. Continue reading.

People of Color and Indigenous Caucus Applauds Regent Selection Result

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – Minnesota’s People of Color and Indigenous (POCI) Caucus today congratulated the four newly-elected regents to the University of Minnesota: Janie Mayeron for the 5th Congressional District; Mike Kenyanya for the Student At-Large seat; and Kao Ly Her and Mary Davenport for the Statewide At-Large seats.

“We have four talented new regents. The POCI Caucus and I recognize how important it is for the members of the governing board to reflect the diversity of our state and our students, and I applaud our colleagues for approving a diverse, qualified slate of new regents,” said Rep. Aisha Gomez (DFL – Minneapolis). “Our students deserve to see the faces and hear the voices of leaders and role models that look like them.”

“The POCI Caucus is committed to academic inclusion for students and educators of all backgrounds. I congratulate all of our new regents, and the POCI caucus will continue to advocate for educators that reflect the diversity of the students they teach, both in high school and in college,” said POCI Caucus Chair Rep. Rena Moran (DFL – St. Paul). Continue reading “People of Color and Indigenous Caucus Applauds Regent Selection Result”