A new compound, T-705, has been found to be effective and safe against H5N1 virus, a highly pathogenic bird flu virus, even three days after infection. The compound works by targeting the viral polymerase enzyme, making it a promising front-line drug for treating influenza.
Researchers found a family of naturally occurring antiviral agents in human cells that protected against most virus particles, including influenza A strains and West Nile virus. The proteins, called IFITM, worked by preventing the virus from attaching to cells, offering potential new ways to prevent and treat viral infections.
Scientists at Thomas Jefferson University developed a promising AIDS vaccine using a rabies virus-based strategy, inducing neutralizing antibodies and CD8+ T cell responses in monkeys. The study showed that the vaccine protected against disease and elicited significant antibody activity against SIV.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have identified a new genetic mutation in the H1N1 flu virus that enables it to replicate in humans. The SR polymorphism mutation enhances polymerase activity and potentially pathogenesis of the virus in humans.
Researchers discovered that H1N1 virus retained the bird version of the polymerase but had an additional mutation that allowed it to function in human cells. This new combination increased the virus's efficiency in human cells and could potentially lead to increased virulence and pathogenicity.
Scripps Research scientists have determined the structure of the Ebola virus's critical protein VP35, which blocks the human immune system. The discovery may lead to new drug therapies and vaccines for Ebola infection.
A new study finds that West Nile virus can remain in the kidneys of infected individuals for years, potentially causing chronic symptoms and kidney failure. Researchers collected urine samples from patients with severe initial infections and detected viral RNA for at least six years following infection.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a tumor-attacking virus that kills brain-tumor cells and blocks the growth of new tumor blood vessels. The virus, called RAMBO, was tested in animal models and showed promise in treating aggressive brain cancer with a survival rate of 54 days.
Researchers aim to understand how the JC virus attaches to host cells, with potential treatments for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The five-year grant will explore the virus's interaction with serotonin receptors in the brain.
A breakthrough in the fight against Hendra virus has been achieved with the development of a treatment that shows great potential to save lives. The treatment, administered after exposure to Nipah virus, protected animals from disease in a model.
A new study published in PLoS Medicine reexamines the development of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), contradicting the long-held antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) model. Researchers found that maternal antibodies protect infants from full-spectrum dengue disease, and a higher weight-for-age is associated with DHF risk.
A recent large-scale swine flu outbreak at the US Air Force Academy provided valuable insights into the natural behavior of the nH1N1 virus, including shedding patterns. The study found that viable virus shedding occurred in about one quarter of confirmed patients and persisted even after symptom-free periods.
A new rabies vaccine has shown to induce a rapid and efficient immune response in mice and non-human primates, potentially reducing the six-shot post-exposure regimen to just one inoculation. The experimental vaccine lacks a key gene called the matrix (M) gene, inhibiting the virus from completing its life cycle.
Scientists found that natalizumab treatment reactsivate dormant JC virus, leading to PML. Measures of the virus in urine increased after 12 months, and blood samples showed presence in 60% of patients at 18 months.
Researchers found that levels of the 2009 H1N1 virus rose more quickly than seasonal flu strains, causing more severe disease. The novel virus was also transmitted more easily from infected to uninfected ferrets.
Research published in Cell Host and Microbe reveals a minor reduction in CD45 levels provides protection against both Ebola virus and Bacillus anthracis. Mice expressing reduced CD45 levels showed enhanced viral clearance and increased protection against infection.
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.
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.
The 1918 influenza pandemic created a viral dynasty that persists to this day, with all human-adapted influenza A viruses being descendents of the founding virus. The novel 2009 H1N1 virus is yet another manifestation of this enduring viral family.
Researchers at EMBL have produced a three-dimensional reconstruction of immature HIV, showing its protein coat assembly in unprecedented detail. The study suggests a simple model of HIV formation, involving multiple Gag proteins interacting to form a hexameric lattice.
Noroviruses cause the greatest incidence of vomiting and diarrhoea globally, resulting in approximately 200,000 child deaths annually. A new study suggests that targeting sugar chains with sialic acid could prevent virus attachment to cells.
Researchers have found that CSA-13, a synthetic compound, can kill vaccinia virus in cell cultures and mice, while also stimulating the innate immune system. The study showed that CSA-13 reduced skin lesions caused by vaccinia virus in infected mice.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that Abatacept reduces severe illness and death in mice exposed to Influenza A virus by tempering the immune response. The treatment approach also improves survival rates for mice infected with a lethal dose of influenza virus.
Researchers at the Bioinformatics Institute in Singapore have created a 3D structural model of the neuraminidase protein, which is critical to the H1N1 influenza A virus. This breakthrough analysis revealed extensive surface mutations compared to closely related strains, making previous flu vaccinations less effective. The study also f...
Recent research on H5N1 avian influenza virus reveals its mechanisms, epidemiology, and transmission dynamics. Understanding the host-virus interaction is crucial for developing effective control measures.
Researchers at USC have identified a critical molecular mechanism that allows the influenza virus to evade the body's immune response system. The study reveals that the virus targets the ubiquitin ligase TRIM25, inhibiting its ability to activate RIG-I and trigger an alarm signal.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict immune responses to influenza A viruses, including novel strains like H1N1. The model suggests that prolonged infection limits T cell production and antigen presentation, making antiviral therapy most effective within two days after infection.
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 identify cowpea mosaic virus's target protein vimentin, a key step towards using the virus as a drug delivery agent. The discovery may lead to targeted treatment of tumors and potentially prevent infectious diseases.
Researchers found that after reassortment with a human influenza virus, an avian flu virus requires relatively few mutations to spread rapidly between mammals by respiratory droplets. This process is similar to the formation of the current swine flu outbreak, suggesting a potential link between avian and human influenza viruses.
Researchers from Durham University have successfully mapped the high-resolution structure of the matrix protein, a critical component of enveloped viruses like RSV. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new biochemical tools to treat respiratory ailments and other viral infections.
Researchers from Purdue University have determined key structural features of the mimivirus, a possible 'missing link' between viruses and living cells. The findings revealed a starfish-shaped structure that covers a special vertex where genetic material leaves the virus to infect its host.
Researchers have determined key structural features of the mimivirus, a giant virus large enough to be seen with a light microscope. The findings reveal a starfish-shaped structure that covers a special vertex where the genetic material leaves the virus to infect its host.
Researchers found that HIV's invisibility comes at a cost: reduced replication, and only in certain individuals with specific HLA proteins
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.
A new study by Brigham Young University researchers reveals how and where the rhinovirus genome evolves to evade the human immune system and drugs. The findings provide valuable insights for developing effective vaccines against this common cold virus.
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch discovered a major virulence factor for Rift Valley fever virus that has a dual mechanism. The protein NSs promotes viral replication by attacking a host cell protein, preventing interferon beta production and allowing the virus to replicate unchecked.
Researchers discovered that mosquitoes use RNA interference to combat dengue virus, allowing the virus to multiply and be transmitted to humans. Genetic manipulation of this response could help stop dengue virus transmission by Aedes aegypti.
A breakthrough discovery by Washington University researchers has identified a technology that reduces infection by the Rice Tungro Disease virus, causing significant economic losses in agriculture. The technology involves transgenic rice plants that overexpress specific proteins, providing improved resistance to the virus.
A study in mice identified Toll-like receptor 7 as a critical molecule in detecting West Nile virus and recruiting immune cells to clear the infection. The research suggests that drug therapies targeting this signaling pathway could enhance the immune response and promote clearance of the deadly virus.
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.
Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine discovered that Ebola virus disables tetherin protein to prevent its inhibition, allowing the virus to spread. Understanding this mechanism may facilitate the development of therapeutics to slow down viral replication.
A recent study found a nanoscale motor in the T4 virus, which drives DNA packaging into its capsid. This discovery could inspire engineers designing sophisticated nanomachines and may also help pharmaceutical companies develop methods to sabotage virus machinery.
A new study found that HIV's rate of evolution slows significantly when a patient's CD4+ T-cell count drops, which can happen long before symptoms of AIDS appear. This change allows the immune system to keep up with the virus, potentially making it harder for it to develop resistance to treatment.
Researchers identified a small molecule called sfRNA that controls host response to viral infection. Targeting this molecule could lead to effective antiviral therapy for flavivirus diseases.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered how mosquitoes control the pathogenicity of viruses, using short-interfering RNAs to modulate disease. By altering the virus genome, the team found a way to upset the balance, potentially targeting mosquito-borne diseases.
A virus causing human-like symptoms may have emerged from a bird virus 200 years ago, according to scientists studying the common cold. Human metapneumovirus has high evolutionary rates and is closely related to Avian metapneumovirus C, suggesting a potential species barrier crossing event.
The discovery of Bundibugyo ebolavirus represents a significant addition to the puzzle of the Ebola virus genus. The new virus is genetically distinct from all other known Ebola virus species, differing by more than 30% at the genetic level. This finding has implications for the development of diagnostics, antivirals, and vaccines.
A new study reveals that TIM-3 protein inactivates virus-killing T cells in HIV-infected patients, leading to their exhaustion. Blocking this protein may one day help patients eliminate HIV and other chronic infections.
Researchers have discovered a single vaccine that can protect chickens, cats, and humans against deadly bird flu pandemics. The vaccine uses a 'backbone' from the H9N2 virus to offer universal protection across multiple species.
Researchers have identified eight free-living red squirrels that are immune to the squirrelpox viral disease, a significant finding in the struggle to save the species from extinction. The discovery suggests that immunity to the virus could give red squirrels an edge against grey squirrels, which harbor the virus but are immune.
The Scripps Research Institute has solved the 3-D structure of Senecavirus, a viral genus that infects solid tumors such as small cell lung cancer. The unique virus shape and RNA arrangement reveal potential binding sites to cancer cells, paving the way for improved therapeutic applications.
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch have discovered a key biochemical link in the process by which Ebola Zaire virus infects cells. By activating the PI3 kinase pathway, Ebola tricks the cell into drawing it into an endosome, where it can reproduce itself.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health identified a new virus, AgDNV, infecting Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. The virus, a densovirus, could be used to pass on genetic information to control malaria transmission.
A new test for West Nile virus in horses has been developed, which could be modified for use on humans and wildlife. The test is highly effective at diagnosing infections and provides accurate results, making it useful for tracking the ecology and epidemiology of the disease.
Researchers have identified how maize streak virus (MSV) became a serious pest in Africa's most important food crop, potentially saving millions of lives. By comparing MSV genomes to its less harmful relatives, scientists discovered that recombination led to the emergence of a more severe disease strain.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have successfully recovered antibodies to the 1918 flu virus from elderly survivors, showcasing surprisingly long-lasting immunity. These antibodies could serve as a treatment option if another similar strain emerges in the future.
A study has found that several people in South and Southeast Asian countries have been infected with simian foamy virus, a primate virus that has not been shown to cause human disease. Researchers tested about 300 people who live or work closely with monkeys and found eight participants positive for the virus.
Researchers describe the shape of the Ebola virus spike protein bound to an immune system antibody, providing a major step forward in understanding how the deadly virus works. The structure reveals vulnerable sites that can be exploited to develop potential Ebola virus vaccines or treatments.
Scientists have identified over 100 host cell genes that the influenza virus depends on for infection, offering hope for developing new antiviral drugs. The study used fruit fly cells and RNA interference to screen for these targets, which could potentially be used to prevent viral replication and resistance.