Researchers at Ohio State University have found that stress hormone norepinephrine promotes tumor cell growth and metastasis in certain types of blood cancer. The study suggests that blocking norepinephrine receptors may slow disease progression and improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers from Baylor College of Medicine found that viral infections like poliovirus target a protein called G3BP, which helps cells respond to stress. This disruption prevents the virus from being translated into proteins and killing the cells.
Researchers found that the Wwox protein keeps ErbB-4 on the cell surface, associated with better survival in breast-cancer patients. The absence of Wwox is linked to shorter survival, particularly in triple-negative breast cancers.
A single amino acid variation in equid herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) creates a different type of EHV-1 that causes neurological disorders in horses. The researchers found that altering this amino acid reduces virus levels and makes the virus more susceptible to antiviral drugs.
The NIH has awarded $15 million over the next five years to the UCSF-GIVI Center for AIDS Research, doubling its previous support. The center provides strategic services and infrastructure to HIV/AIDS researchers, focusing on translational research and collaborations across disciplines.
Researchers have identified multiple genes that confer broad-spectrum resistance to Turnip Mosaic Virus in brassicas like broccoli and cabbage. This discovery has the potential to develop resilient crop varieties that can withstand virus mutations.
Penn researchers have found a new way Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated Herpes Virus (KSHV) causes cancer by interfering with the degradation of a crucial signaling molecule called Notch. This finding sheds light on how KSHV subverts normal cell growth, potentially leading to new treatments for viral-associated cancers.
MedImmune presents Phase 2 safety data for its anti-RSV antibody, motavizumab, in young children with a history of prematurity. The company also releases national RSV surveillance results showing regional variability of the virus in the southern United States.
Researchers found a link between depression, latent viral infections, and increased inflammation, which may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that chronic depression can trigger a cascade of events that lead to the buildup of plaques in coronary arteries.
Researchers found that chronic caregivers develop genetic and molecular changes that effectively age their bodies by four to eight years, resulting in a shortened lifespan. Caregivers also exhibit severe depression symptoms and weakened immune systems, contributing to the negative effects of chronic stress.
Research reveals ultraconserved non-coding RNAs may play a role in cancer development and could help diagnose the disease, determine prognosis, and even guide treatment. The study found specific activity patterns for these molecules in different types of cancer, suggesting they might serve as genetic markers.
Researchers found that prion infection influences the expression of endogenous retroviruses in mouse cells, with some sequences increasing and others decreasing. The effects could be suppressed by an anti-prion drug, suggesting a possible link between prions and retrovirus production.
Immunology researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have successfully halted a lethal rabies infection in mice by opening the central nervous system's protective blood-brain barrier. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment for late-stage rabies infections in humans, and may also shed light on other neurological diseases.
A Carnegie Mellon scientist has developed a new method to characterize large viral particles and proteins using a mass spectrometer. This breakthrough enables researchers to study intact protein complexes in seconds, paving the way for rapid disease diagnosis.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have found specific mutations that distinguish influenza viruses in birds from those that infect humans. These markers can be used to track changes in H5N1 avian influenza strains threatening humans, suggesting potential adaptation and spread.
Researchers identified a new strategy that KSHV uses to replicate its viral genome, allowing it to evade the immune system. By eliminating viral protein production, they found that KSHV DNA can autonomously recruit cellular replication machinery proteins.
Researchers discovered that PKR enzyme plays a crucial role in the antiviral effect of interferon against some viruses. They found that PKR affects protein synthesis and apoptosis, leading to reduced cell death and viral replication in response to stimuli.
A new reovirus has been isolated from bats and can cause a serious but non-fatal respiratory illness in humans. The virus, named Melaka, is closely related to two other bat-borne reoviruses and can be transmitted between people.
A new vaccine has been developed to prevent hCMV infection and disease in mice, showing promise for human use. The vaccine generates an immune response that protects against both infection and disease by disarming the virus's ability to replicate.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center discovered that memory CD8 T cells can protect against viral diseases without migrating to the site of infection. These cells rapidly multiply and kill target cells inside the lymph node, decreasing viral spread to vital organs.
A new study identified a genetic mutation in the DAPK1 gene that increases the risk of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The mutation reduces the gene's protective activity and can be followed by a chemical change called DNA methylation, which leads to leukemia.
A researcher at Kansas State University has created a special habitat for the yellow fever mosquito in an effort to understand how viruses disrupt programmed cell death. The goal is to determine if mosquitoes can be made immune to viruses, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating diseases like dengue fever and Alzheimer's.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified an 'insulator' - a stretch of DNA about 800 base pairs long - that serves as a physical barrier between active and inactive regions of the HSV-1 genome. This discovery may lead to strategies to manipulate the virus, and could provide targets for designing drugs to disrupt its mechanisms.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is honoring world-class cancer researchers who have made significant contributions to the fight against cancer. The winners of the 2007 AACR research achievement awards include Dr. Janet S. Butel, Dr. Harold P. Freeman, and Dr. Alexander Varshavsky.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that male mice developed squamous cell carcinoma tumors earlier and had more aggressive tumors than female mice. The study suggests that gender-linked differences in antioxidants may be the key reason behind this disparity.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers has identified a link between the absence of the Olig1 protein in lung tumors and poor survival rates among patients with non-small cell lung cancer. The findings suggest that patients with low levels of the protein may benefit from more aggressive therapy after surgery, potentially i...
A study at Ohio State University found that losing one copy of the Wwox gene greatly increases lung cancer risk in mice. Even with one working copy, they developed five times more lung tumors than those with two copies.
A new assay allows simultaneous detection of individual proteins and their interactions in living cells, enabling researchers to monitor protein expression and interaction networks. This breakthrough method has the potential to develop novel antiviral factors and therapies for infectious diseases and cancers.
Research suggests treating HSV-2 infections reduces genital and systemic levels of HIV-1 RNA, with potential implications for treatment and management of co-infections.
Researchers at University of Texas Medical Branch have discovered a way to identify the biochemical profile of an inappropriate immune response to viral infection. The study uses a protein-scanning chip and computer database to examine over 1,200 protein interactions in guinea pigs infected with two different strains of Pichinde virus.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the N1 protein in seasonal flu vaccines can trigger an antibody response to avian flu virus, offering cross-protection to some individuals. The study suggests that annual influenza vaccines may be beneficial to populations in areas where H5N1 poses a threat to humans.
Researchers found that low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses can cause mild illness in migratory swans, slowing down their migration and feeding patterns. This discovery highlights the impact of these viruses on wild birds and could affect the rate of spread of avian influenza.
Researchers found DNA methylation in normal-appearing areas of the breast near tumors, suggesting a potential marker for early cancer detection. Abnormal methylation levels were also identified in three other genes, which may help estimate a woman's risk of cancer recurrence.
A study of the retinoblastoma gene found that it is essential for placenta development and may also contribute to miscarriages. The research used transgenic mice to disable the gene and observe its effects on embryonic development.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have used the antiviral drug valganciclovir to treat patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, with significant improvement in 21 out of 25 cases. The therapy has shown promise in reducing inflammation and improving symptoms.
Researchers discovered the role of metalloproteinases in increasing vascular permeability and blood loss associated with Dengue. In vivo experiments neutralized these enzymes, providing a new model for treating hemorrhagic fevers like Ebola and Marburg.
Two microRNAs, miR-29 and miR-181, have been found to control the expression of the TCL1 oncogene responsible for aggressive forms of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. High levels of these miRNAs suppress TCL1 expression, while low levels correlate with more aggressive cancer.
A study published by the American Thoracic Society found that human rhinovirus, a leading cause of common colds, can lead to progressive respiratory failure and death in immunosuppressed lung transplant patients. The virus was found to infect both upper and lower airways, contradicting previous assumptions.
Purdue University has been awarded $7 million to study the use of a nanomotor, a microscopic biological machine, for diagnosing and treating diseases like cancer and AIDS. The team will adapt a viral motor to package therapeutic DNA or RNA for disease-causing cells.
Researchers found that HIV-1 infection leads to the loss of immune cells in the gut, which may never return to normal levels. A subset of patients showed only half the normal number of CD4+ effector memory T cells in their GI tracts despite effective antiretroviral therapy.
A Bowling Green State University biologist believes long-dormant influenza strains can be unleashed by melting ice in remote global outposts, posing a potential threat to human immunity.
The U.S. Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization has discovered a crucial pathway that supports the influenza A virus's ability to reproduce itself. This finding could lead to the development of new live vaccines and antiviral drugs for influenza epidemics and pandemics.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine discovered how KSHV subverts a normal cell process to promote tumor growth. By tricking tumor suppressors VHL and p53 into being destroyed, KSHV allows cancer cells to grow unchecked.
A review in the Journal of Internal Medicine estimates that 50 million people acquired zoonotic diseases between 2000 and 2005, resulting in up to 78,000 deaths. The Dengue virus and Japanese Encephalitis Virus are among the most common zoonotic killers.
New research suggests stress hormones can stimulate tumor cells to produce compounds breaking down tissue and facilitating metastasis. Beta-blocker drugs may slow cancer growth by blocking receptors.
Researchers at CReSA have made significant advances in tests using DNA vaccines on animal models, enabling a delay in symptom appearance and paving the way for human treatment. The vaccine induces a complete immune response, including humoral and cellular responses, overcoming the tolerance barrier faced by prions.
Researchers found that moderate amounts of alcohol improved laboratory rats' memories, especially in recalling negative events. High doses of alcohol damaged brain and liver tissue, suggesting a protective effect for low-level consumption.
Researchers found that some viruses, like the human polyomavirus JCV, may be evolving at higher rates than previously assumed. The virus is traditionally used as a genetic marker for human migration and evolution, but its reliability has been called into question by this new study.
Researchers found that marijuana-like compounds improved memory and reduced inflammation in older rats, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for Alzheimer's disease. The study used synthetic compounds similar to marijuana to treat young and old rats, with the most notable improvement seen in older rats.
A Montana State University researcher has made significant breakthroughs in developing a live vaccine against genital herpes. The study found that mice vaccinated with a genetically-modified herpes simplex virus type 1 showed no signs of disease after exposure to the wild-type strain.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a novel peptide that effectively blocks influenza viruses, including deadly avian influenza, from entering host cells. The new finding offers a potential tool for preventing and treating influenza, which is losing its potency due to evolution.
Researchers discovered that West Nile virus blocks immune signaling by a protein receptor, allowing it to replicate and spread. The African strain does not block this activity, making it harmless to the immune system. Harnessing this strain could lead to vaccine development against North American strains.
Researchers discovered that APOBEC3G forms large RNA protein complexes to block HIV and protect against jumping genes. This finding may lead to new approaches for controlling HIV infection.
The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has received a $1.3 million grant to produce a promising avian flu vaccine that could protect against the deadly H5N1 virus. The vaccine, developed by Dr. Andrea Gambotto's team, has shown complete protection in mice and chickens against infection.
A new strain of mice has been developed to mimic chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a common and incurable form of cancer. The TCL-1 transgenic mouse shares molecular features with human CLL and responds to drugs, making it a valuable tool for developing new treatments.
Researchers from the Université de Montréal have identified a defect in the immune response to HIV and found a way to correct it. The team successfully stimulated a protein that prevents the virus from making immune system cells dysfunctional, opening new prospects for therapeutic strategies.
A study found that African Americans with hepatitis C infection experience a lower response rate to peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin combination treatment compared to Caucasian Americans. The racial difference in viral responses was seen as early as the fourth week of treatment, with African Americans having a significantly lower su...
Scientists replicated HCV in mouse cells using a gene called protein kinase R, blocking the virus's high rate of replication. This breakthrough may lead to better understanding of why some patients respond to treatment, potentially shedding light on new therapeutic strategies.
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that the protein CD86 on B lymphocytes increases antibody production when interacting with T cells. This finding could lead to new treatments for pneumonia, HIV/AIDS, and autoimmune diseases.
A new study outlines an innovative approach to create a CMV vaccine using recombinant technologies. Researchers have successfully introduced human CMV genes into mouse CMV, resulting in a novel form of the virus that can trigger an immune response without sustaining infection.