A gene that 'creates natural born killers'

London: Scientists have discovered a gene that they claim allows the body to produce cells which are the lynchpin of the immune system, a breakthrough which could pave the way for new treatments for diseases including cancer.

A team at the Imperial College London has identified the master gene, called E4BP4, which is behind the frontline troops of the body's immune system. In fact, it kick-starts production of natural killer (NK) cells in the bone marrow.

According to the 'New Scientist', laboratory rodents genetically engineered to lack the gene were able to make all other components of the immune system -- such as B cells which produce antibodies and Tcells that attack pre-selected targets -- but not NK cells. And, this suggests E4BP4 is indispensable for their production.