Researchers found a new drug, bortezomib, effective in killing gastrointestinal stromal tumor cells through two mechanisms, increasing apoptosis and suppressing KIT enzyme production. The study supports moving forward with clinical trials to assess its benefits and risks as a secondary treatment for imatinib-resistant GIST patients.
Researchers discover unique structure in viral protein Rev, allowing it to penetrate nucleus and nucleoli. This finding opens new avenues for studying the relationship between protein localization and host cell impact.
Scientists have discovered that plant viruses can be harnessed to carry genetic information into plant cells, which could lead to the development of crops with desirable traits. By stabilizing viral vector genes, researchers hope to improve crop yields and resistance.
Researchers at the Gladstone Institutes have discovered surfen, a small molecule that inhibits HIV's ability to bind to cells and enhance infection. The discovery could lead to new treatments for HIV, potentially reducing transmission rates through sexual contact.
A new study reveals that three proteins, E2f1, E2f2 and E2f3, play a key role in the transition of stem cells to their final differentiated state. These proteins act as activators in stem cells but switch to repressors when cells begin to differentiate, and can even revert back to activators in cancer cells, promoting tumor growth.
Research found that couples who use thoughtfulness and reasoning during conflicts show lower stress-related protein levels, suggesting a potential health benefit. The study measured cytokine levels before and after marital discussion tasks and found a correlation between cognitive word use and reduced inflammation.
The Wellcome Trust has awarded €2.8 million to the Laboratory for Virology and Experimental Chemotherapy at K.U.Leuven to search for new treatments for dengue fever, a viral disease prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. Researchers will collaborate with the pharmaceutical industry to develop medications for this deadly virus.
A new study suggests that a damaging inflammatory response following spinal cord injury can prevent healing and promote chronic pain. Anti-inflammatory macrophages, which are typically involved in later stages of injury repair, were found to promote effective growth of axons but disappear shortly after an injury.
A new study published in Nature reveals that the loss of a gene called PTEN from surrounding cells can dramatically alter the tumor environment, fostering tumor growth. The findings suggest a new role for PTEN in suppressing cancer development and could lead to entirely new treatments targeting both cancer cells and their surroundings.
A study published in Virology demonstrates that the ancient pathogen cowpox still has much to teach us about developing novel vaccines. Researchers identified 9 new protective components of the virus, which offered superior protection in a mouse model compared to existing vaccines.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered tiny strands of RNA, previously considered 'junk,' that are actually very stable molecules with potential roles in cellular processes. The findings could lead to new types of biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis, as well as new therapeutic targets.
Researchers analyzed decades-old frozen infant stool samples to understand norovirus evolution. The study reveals that the GII.4 genotype emerged years before its recent identification as a cause of severe global outbreaks.
A new study by neuroscientists at Ohio State University suggests that immune responses to spinal cord injuries may actually worsen and extend the damage. Inhibiting antibody-producing B cells may promote healing and reduce long-term effects of spinal cord injury.
The HIV Nef protein inhibits cell mobility in immune cells, disrupting their ability to establish contact and combat the virus. This mechanism may lead to the malfunction of B-lymphocytes in AIDS patients.
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz are working on a new approach to AIDS vaccine development using novel HIV protein structures and broadly neutralizing antibodies to combat the virus' high variability. The $3.5 million NIH grant will support studies exploring these promising findings and potentially lead to more effective vaccines.
Researchers found that viral polymerase is a key target for preventing systemic flu in humans. The study discovered that avian influenza adapted to infect mice caused severe illness and death due to suppression of the immune system.
A new study reveals that impaired axonal transport in neurons is a key factor in the development of prion diseases. The research shows that clinical symptoms correlate with reduced axonal transport in specific brain centers, providing new insights into the disease.
Researchers from Heidelberg University Hospital have identified a new target for treating chronic hepatitis C: the protein cyclophilin A. Inhibiting this protein blocks virus replication and has two complementary effects, making it a promising approach to therapy.
The updated guidelines stress the importance of routine screening for common health problems in HIV patients, such as heart disease and cancer. Comprehensive care models that emphasize a medical home approach are also recommended to ensure holistic care for those living with HIV.
Researchers at Yerkes National Primate Research Center propose alternative approaches to developing an effective AIDS vaccine, including making infected individuals resistant to disease progression or reducing the number of cells the virus can infect. They draw inspiration from African nonhuman primates that adapt to HIV-like viruses i...
Scientists believe that molecular chaperones, which help make and manage proteins, are crucial in both cancer and Alzheimer's. Disabling these molecules may lead to effective treatments for both diseases. Researchers are also exploring the potential of increasing their activity to halt disease progression.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that a virus discovered in a rare form of skin cancer was also present in people with the second most common type of skin cancer. The virus had a mutation that enabled it to integrate into host DNA, raising questions about its potential role in causing squamous cell carcinoma.
Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center identified a molecule, miR-21, playing an early and important role in the development of nonsmoking lung cancer. The study found that miR-21 levels were high in both early and late-stage tumors, suggesting it happens early in cancer development.
Researchers have developed an in-vitro antibody production technique to detect HIV infection earlier, reducing the diagnostic window period. This method promotes the synthesis and release of antibodies against HIV-1 prior to detection in plasma samples, leading to safer blood supply and improved diagnosis.
Montana State University researchers study Sulfolobus turreted icosahedral virus (STIV) and its effects on host cells. The virus forms pyramid-like projections on the surface of infected cells, releasing progeny in a previously unknown manner.
DNA exists in a slightly underwound state, and its status changes in waves generated by normal cell functions such as replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. The researchers found that DNA can be underwound to the point where one of two bases flips out, relieving stress on the molecule.
Researchers found A/H1N1 virus infectious to pigs and spreading rapidly in a trial pig population. The virus can pass from humans to pigs but not from pigs to other animals.
Dr. Herman Scholthof, a renowned plant pathology expert, has been awarded the 2009 American Phytopathological Society Fellowship for his distinguished contributions to the field. He is recognized for his notable work in plant pathology and microbiology at Texas A&M University.
Researchers have discovered a method to deliver a natural suppressor of the immune response, HLA-G, directly to dendritic cells using microscopic beads. This approach shows promise in creating 'designer' immune cells that can tolerate transplanted organs. The therapy could potentially replace current anti-rejection drugs and improve pa...
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have found a key factor controlling HIV latency, which could lead to new strategies for clearing the virus. The discovery involves DNA methylation and a host protein called MBD2, and offers hope for future therapies to reactivate latent HIV.
Researchers are exploring how targeting Hsp90's helpers could lead to therapies for hormone-driven cancers like breast and prostate cancer. Understanding how these interactions work may allow for modulation of the function of steroid receptors, Hsp90, or both.
World-renowned virologist Professor Albert Osterhaus emphasizes the importance of preparedness in the face of swine-origin flu. He stresses that there is room for improvement in influenza vaccine production and that adequate stockpiles of antibiotics, antivirals, and vaccines are crucial for effective treatment.
Researchers have developed a new computer simulation model that captures the human immune response to influenza type A, predicting treatment design and pandemic preparedness. The model reveals that drugs and vaccines targeting dendritic cell presentation of antigens have a significant impact on patient outcomes.
Researchers found that antibody interference can hinder vaccine effectiveness, proposing a new approach to design more powerful vaccines. They suggest intentionally developing a vaccine strain that differs from the anticipated infectious virus at specific sites.
Researchers found that both swine flu subtypes cause respiratory symptoms and lung lesions in weanling pigs. H1N1-infected pigs developed more severe disease, with approximately a third of the lung affected.
Dr. Gail Demmler-Harrison, a renowned pediatric virologist, received the Thomas Hazinski Award for her exceptional service to the Society for Pediatric Research. She has advanced the study of pediatric diseases through her dedicated work in laboratories and with patients.
Researchers create first 3D model of dengue virus replication, providing insight into the process and offering new approaches for developing measures to prevent or treat dengue fever. The study provides crucial information for developing therapy against this infectious disease.
A Kansas State University researcher has found that the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic virus and the current swine influenza virus are closely related, with the former adapting to pigs and resulting in the latter. The study suggests that pigs may have played a role in maintaining and spreading the virus.
Researchers discover HIV counteracts human cell protection by marking proteins for rapid destruction, but not in rats. Disrupting this interaction could be a promising strategy for therapy to increase cells' protective mechanisms.
The recent special edition of Virology journal explores the past, present, and future of small DNA tumor viruses, including polyomaviruses, adenoviruses, and papillomaviruses. These viruses have led to fundamental discoveries in basic biology, unraveling complex aspects of host cells.
Researchers have identified a viral protein, VP16, as the molecular key that prompts herpes simplex virus to exit latency and cause recurrent disease. The study provides a molecular target for designing improved HSV vaccines and treatments, which could also be used in cancer therapy.
Researchers at Van Andel Research Institute ruled out transcriptional coactivators as useful herpes antiviral drug targets. The study found that the viral genes do not depend on cellular proteins called coactivators for expression, contrary to earlier models.
Rice University scientists developed a computerized method to test flu vaccine efficacy against multiple strains, outperforming existing tests. The new approach may help create more effective vaccines for both seasonal and bird flu, improving global preparedness.
Researchers at Rutgers University have made significant progress in developing an HIV vaccine by identifying a crucial part of the virus that is common to most varieties. They created a method to immunize animals with this target, resulting in antibodies that can stop a diverse set of HIV isolates.
A Scripps Research team discovered peptides that inhibit viral production by 68-63% and reduce viral RNA levels by sevenfold. The findings offer a promising target for the development of anti-hepatitis C virus drugs.
Researchers at Ohio State University Medical Center have discovered a gene, BDNF, that can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce fat mass, and lead to weight loss when active in the hypothalamus. The study involves injecting the gene into mice and shows promising results for treating obesity.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College discovered that chloroquine is a highly active inhibitor of infection by Hendra and Nipah viruses. The drug blocks the action of cathepsin L, an enzyme essential for virus growth and maturation.
Leading scientists issue a challenge to find a way to purge latent HIV infection and eliminate the need for chronic therapy. A drug-free remission goal requires understanding of persistent infection reservoirs and combination approaches.
The UCSF-GIVI CFAR's mentoring program uses innovative strategies like 'trans' mentoring to support early-career investigators. The program aims to retain and optimize productivity of these researchers, addressing concerns about lack of access to funding and support for clinician scientists.
A study of over 2,000 HIV-infected prisoners found that 80% experienced significant interruptions in antiretroviral therapy after release. This can lead to poor clinical outcomes and the creation of drug-resistant HIV reservoirs in the community.
Rafe Sagarin, a Duke University ecologist, advocates for a Darwinian approach to homeland defense, emphasizing adaptability and responsiveness over rigid security measures. By learning to live with threats rather than eliminating them entirely, organisms can better handle unforeseen risks in an escalating arms race.
Researchers sequence genomes of 99 known cold virus strains, exposing vulnerabilities that could lead to effective remedies. The study's findings also shed light on the genetic composition of rhinovirus A and B, as well as emerging species C, which is more virulent.
Researchers discovered that Oncostatin M improves interferon's antiviral effect, increasing immune response to viruses. This combination may be useful for treating chronic viral hepatitis and other tumors that don't respond to conventional therapy.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in developing a new gene-targeting therapy that uses an RNA enzyme to inhibit strains of the herpes simplex virus. The technique has shown promise in experiments with mice and rabbits, but further research is needed before it can be attempted in people infected with herpes.
Research suggests that stress can increase the production of proteins that support tumor growth and angiogenesis in aggressive melanoma cells. Beta-blocker medications may slow this process, offering potential improvements for patients' quality of life.
Researchers at Rockefeller University identified a human protein, occludin, that makes mouse cells susceptible to the hepatitis C virus. This discovery provides a clear foundation for developing an animal model and tailored treatments for the disease.
A team of scientists found distinct subspecies of rabies virus in African countries, indicating limited movement between localities. With a progressive strategy, neighboring countries can work together to eliminate rabies from sub-Saharan Africa.
A team of Wisconsin researchers has discovered that birnessite, a common soil mineral, can penetrate and degrade the prion's armor. This finding may provide new methods for decontaminating soil and other environments where prions reside.
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism that regulates the production of type I interferon, an important protein for clearing viral infections. This mechanism involves a protein-protein interaction between surface receptors on plasmacytoid dendritic cells and class I major histocompatibility complex molecules.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that the molecule miR-29 is essential for muscle repair and maturation, but its absence is linked to rhabdomyosarcoma cancer. Raising miR-29 levels in cancer cells slowed tumor growth and induced maturity.