UW News
Neda Bagheri
February 13, 2020
Immune cells consult with neighbors to make decisions
![An illustration showing immune system cells migrating to a wound site.](https://uw-s3-cdn.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2020/02/12144022/QL_Cartoon_03Feb2020_rev1-150x150.jpg)
Scientists and physicians have long known that immune cells migrate to the site of an infection, which individuals experience as inflammation — swelling, redness and pain. Now, researchers at the University of Washington and Northwestern University have uncovered evidence that this gathering is not just a consequence of immune activation. Immune cells count their neighbors before deciding whether or not the immune system should kick into high gear.