Kendall A. Smith, M.D. is a scientist, physician, educator & writer.
Together with his research team at Dartmouth Medical School, he made several groundbreaking discoveries in the field of immunology, which revolutionized our understanding of the human immune system.
His work has transformed the way scientists and physicians now study and treat previously implacable diseases such as leukemia, cancer, and lymphoma.
Recent Work
Interleukin Revolution, a memoir of Smith’s first twenty years as a young scientist at Dartmouth Medical School, chronicles the revolution that has occurred in our understanding of how the immune system is regulated. This revolution has been made possible by pioneering experiments that Smith and his team accomplished in the 1970s and ‘80s, and by many others who have since followed their leads.
Interleukin-2
Dr. Smith’s most revolutionary discovery involved classifying and understanding the function of Interleukin-2.
WHAT IS IT?
Interleukin-2 is a type of cytokine & one of a group of related proteins produced by white blood cells in the body.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Is stimulates the growth and activity of T lymphocytes (T cells) within the blood stream. It signals them to multiply, which in turn boosts the immune system response and allows the human body to fight off antibodies and disease.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Interleukin-2 is considered the ‘symphony conductor of the immune system.’ Its ability to manipulate the growth & proliferation of T lymphocytes (T cells) allows scientists to directly effect the immune system, boosting or dampening the immune response to fight off infection and disease. This has allowed scientists to craft an exponentially growing number of promising therapies and cures.
What’s next?
Dr. Smith’s discovery of Interleukin-2 revolutionized the field of immunology and cleared the path towards creating effective and practical immunotherapies. These therapies have continued to advance and evolve as time has passed. Doctors and scientists are now beginning to uncover and utilize more & more powerful applications for these therapies, which hold tremendously exciting potential.
At long last, the cures for previously untreatable diseases are within our grasp.
Educating the Next Generation
Dr. Smith has now made it his mission to educate the next generation of immunologists. He is actively involved in creating educational videos on Youtube, where he shares excerpts from his previous books, his current observations regarding the state of immunology and stories from his decades in the lab.
He also offers powerful and practical advice to young scientists as a form of virtual mentorship.
Subscribe to Kendall’s Community
Text him your Immunology & Science related questions by scanning the QR code below or by visiting this link.
https://my.community.com/kendallscommunity
