Dr. Nihal Altan-Bonnet, a Rutgers cell biologist, has been awarded the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). Her research identifies a common lipid blueprint for viral replication, paving the way for potential panviral therapeutics.
Dr. Warner C. Greene and global AIDS experts release a locally affordable version of the world's leading AIDS medical textbook, designed specifically for resource-poor regions. The textbook features up-to-date clinical information on HIV/AIDS, including managing and treating the disease in resource-poor settings.
Researchers found that the HIV protein vpu interferes with the immune response protein IRF3, dampening the ability of the immune system to protect against virus infection. This discovery could lead to the development of new antiviral therapeutics that target this interaction.
Researchers discovered that tumor cells release chemokine CCL2, which docks onto endothelial cells and activates the CCR2 receptor, making them permeable. This pathway enables tumor cells to migrate and metastasize.
West Nile virus infection causes breakdown of two vital proteins, claudin and JAM, leading to accelerated degradation of the blood-brain barrier. Researchers hope to design drugs that prevent brain infection by understanding this mechanism.
University of Texas Medical Branch researchers developed a more effective Rift Valley fever vaccine by removing the NSs gene and introducing a dominant negative PKR, improving immune response in large animals and health workers. The new vaccine strain offers enhanced differentiation between infected and vaccinated animals.
The Lifespan/Tufts/Brown Center for AIDS Research has received a $8.5 million, five-year renewal grant from the National Institutes of Health to support interdisciplinary collaboration and shared resources among over 60 investigators from various fields.
Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered a new immune alarm signal that triggers the human immune system before a virus attack. This knowledge may lead to more efficient vaccines and better treatment of recurrent infections, potentially reducing the risk of diseases like AIDS, hepatitis, influenza, and cold sores.
Researchers sequenced the bonobo genome to identify key differences with humans and chimpanzees, finding over 2.5 million transposon insertions unique to the bonobo genome. These findings may help understand the genetic basis for traits shared among humans, chimpanzees, and bonobos.
Geoffrey L. Smith, a renowned virologist and leader in the field of microbiology, has been awarded the GlaxoSmithKline International Member of the Year Award. He is recognized for his numerous original contributions to virology and his role as a leader in various scientific institutions.
A type of herpesvirus infection of the eye has been found to be associated with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in the elderly. The virus triggers the production of vascular endothelial growth factor, leading to retinal tissue destruction and vision loss.
Ellen Jo Baron has been recognized with the 2012 ASM Founders Distinguished Service Award for her decades-long commitment to promoting clinical microbiology and ensuring excellence in laboratory practice worldwide. Baron's extensive service includes volunteering with the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services Clinical Laboratory Imp...
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute have identified a molecule activated by a virus that can selectively kill tumor cells in animal studies. A new drug candidate, YM155, has shown promising results in killing MCC cells and suppressing tumor growth.
Researchers at UC Davis Health System demonstrated the safety and efficacy of transplanting anti-HIV stem cells into mice, replicating a functioning human immune system. The technique protects and expands HIV-resistant immune cells, maintaining normal CD4 levels.
Scientists from the University of Bonn found over 60 new paramyxovirus species in bats and rodents, revealing that bats are the original hosts of these viruses. The study suggests that bats may be a reservoir for dangerous viruses, making it challenging to eradicate them.
A study published in Journal of Virology identifies apoptosis, the programmed death of a host cell, as the trigger for high-level viral replication of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). This discovery suggests that KSHV can sense and respond to changes in its host cells, granting it an evolutionary advantage.
Researchers found that HIV-1 replication in human tissues increases with a single amino acid change in the Gag protein. This adaptation is crucial for efficient viral replication and may have played a role in the emergence of HIV/AIDS.
Researchers study the origins of HIV/AIDS, revealing that SIV replication in human tissues is crucial to viral efficiency. In contrast, a new study finds that autoantibodies against citrullinated proteins contribute to bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have identified a number of tiny but powerful genetic regulators that are hijacked by avian and swine flu viruses during human infection. The discovery could reveal new targets for broad-spectrum antivirals to combat current and future strains of influenza A viruses.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding how to treat the lethal norovirus, which causes severe gastroenteritis. The study reveals that antibodies can bind to the virus's unique structure, potentially leading to the development of more effective vaccines and treatments.
Researchers have discovered that an Epstein Barr-like virus can infect dogs and be linked to lymphoma, similar to its effects on humans. The study found that dogs with lymphoma had antibodies against the virus and viral elements in their tumors, indicating a direct association.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine are studying children with weakened immune systems to identify the viruses that make them sick. They will collect samples from 400 children and analyze them using advanced technologies to draw conclusions about which viruses cause illness.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that mobile DNA elements, called transposons, can significantly disrupt gene expression and cause biological variation in mice. The study discovered that these elements can influence gene expression even when located far away from the affected gene.
The oceans' untapped genetic resources hold huge potential for medicines, foods, and biofuels. International agreements are required to ensure equal benefits from these resources. Developing countries need support in participating in research and invention.
A University of Alberta researcher has developed a vaccine that shows signs of prevention against all strains of hepatitis C. The vaccine was tested on humans and elicited broad cross-neutralizing antibodies against major strains, offering hope for those with the disease.
The new journal will publish original research articles, review articles, and other content on a range of scientific topics. All articles will be fully open access and published online within 4 weeks.
Scientists from MIT and partners have developed a way to produce liver-like cells from induced pluripotent stem cells, which can be infected with hepatitis C. This allows for the study of why people respond differently to the infection, potentially leading to personalized medicine.
Scientists have identified peptides on internal structures of influenza viruses that could provide immunity against all strains, including seasonal and pandemic flu. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a universal vaccine that activates T-cell immune responses.
Researchers discovered a newly acquired trait in some HIV-related viruses that allows them to degrade primate SAMHD1 proteins. The ability emerged first in Vpr proteins before the emergence of Vpx proteins.
A study found that genital herpes can reactivate in 'breakthrough episodes' even when taking high dose antiviral therapy, highlighting the need for new treatments to prevent onward transmission. Current antiviral therapies only reduce shedding by 50%, but don't eliminate breakthrough episodes.
A team of scientists from Boston University School of Medicine has identified a novel compound that inhibits viruses from replicating, including poxviruses such as Monkeypox. The compound works by inactivating an essential piece of virus machinery, preventing the virus from amplifying itself.
A new study identified a gene mutation that dates back to 11,600 B.C. and causes a rare vitamin B12 deficiency called Imerslund-Gräsbeck Syndrome. The mutation was found in people of Arabic, Turkish, and Jewish ancestry and is believed to have originated in a single prehistoric individual.
Scientists at Gladstone Institutes have discovered protein fragments in semen that enhance HIV's ability to infect new cells. Removing these components from semen diminishes HIV's infection potential, suggesting a new approach to preventing transmission.
The study found an enzyme called 3D which forms fibrous structures during viral replication. A molecule to prevent this formation has been identified, providing a new avenue for exploration and potentially leading to a treatment for foot-and-mouth disease.
A new study reveals four distinct configurations of the SBP8a bacteriophage, showing its ability to penetrate anthrax cells and control DNA flow. The discovery provides an initial blueprint for modifying the phage into a detection tool for anthrax and other bioterror agents.
Male mice have lower catalase activity, leading to higher oxidative stress and increased susceptibility to UVB-induced skin damage. Women may have natural antioxidant protection that reduces their risk of developing skin cancer.
Despite significant progress, polio eradication remains complex due to asymptomatic infections and vaccine limitations. Experts emphasize the need for further research on virus-host interactions and vaccine usage in the final stages of the program.
Researchers are studying two enzymes to combat the flu virus, which causes 36,000 US deaths and 200,000 hospitalizations annually. The goal is to identify targets for drug therapies that can block the spread of the influenza virus.
Researchers at Ohio State University Medical Center have developed a viral vector designed to deliver a gene into the eyes of people born with an inherited form of blindness. The trial aims to treat choroideremia, a disease affecting 100,000 worldwide, and holds promise for other genetic causes of blindness like retinitis pigmentosa.
Researchers demonstrate that an anti-caries DNA vaccine, pGJA-P/VAX, combined with a Salmonella protein adjuvant, enhances saliva IgA responses and protects against dental caries. The study shows that the adjuvant promotes specific immunoglobulin A responses in saliva and offers better protection against caries.
A neutralizing human monoclonal antibody, m102.4, has been developed to protect against Hendra virus infection, showing promise as a potential treatment for severe illness and death in humans. The antibody attacks a critical component of the virus, preventing its infection of cells.
Researchers at CHEO have identified a series of genes that magnify the impact of oncolytic viruses, allowing for up to 10,000 times more potent killing of tumor cells. By short-circuiting these rescue systems, tumor cells can be triggered to commit suicide, preserving healthy cells.
Researchers at the University of Southampton have made a significant breakthrough in understanding Chlamydia trachomatis genetics, enabling the development of new treatments and potentially a vaccine. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment options for the disease, which is often left untreated due to its asymptomatic nature.
A new study by Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine could lead to improved gene therapies for conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Researchers found that a virus used in vaccines can also be tailored to cause less of an immune response in gene therapy applications.
The MVA-B vaccine has been shown to induce an 90% immune response in humans against Human's immunodeficiency virus (HIV), with 85% of volunteers maintaining this response for at least one year. The vaccine works by training the immune system to recognize and respond to HIV particles and infected cells.
A new study suggests that beta-blocker drugs commonly used to treat high blood pressure may also slow the progression of certain serious cancers like melanoma. The review of thousands of medical records in Denmark found patients taking beta-blockers had lower mortality rates and improved survival times.
Andrea Endimiani has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on the impact of drug resistance traits on infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. He has also made significant contributions to understanding the prevalence of KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in multiple US cities.
Researchers have identified two weak points in the hepatitis C virus that could be targeted by a new vaccine. The discovery uses next-generation deep sequencing and computer analytics to track changes in the virus after infection, revealing opportunities for effective vaccine development.
Researchers at Ohio State University Medical Center found a biological switch that converts white fat to brown fat, leading to reduced abdominal fat mass and improved metabolism. The discovery uses environmental enrichment to activate a nerve and biochemical pathway that stimulates the transformation.
Researchers from Yale University discovered that a virus from the same family as rabies can target and kill soft tissue sarcomas. The oncolytic activity of VSV-rp30a was found to be effective against 12 out of 13 different sarcoma lines, with resistance overcome by interferon antagonizers.
New HIV cases linked to infected, medicated partners in gay community, suggesting a need for revised public health approach towards HIV counselling and education. The study reveals that existing HIV drug therapies can't prevent transmission from aware, medicated individuals.
Scientists have successfully tested a bivalent vaccine that protects against both rabies and Ebola in mice, offering a promising solution for Africa's healthcare challenges. The vaccine is built on the same platform as the approved rabies vaccine and has several advantages over existing Ebola candidates.
Researchers identify Niemann-Pick C1 as critical protein for Ebola virus entry, paving the way for potential antiviral treatments. The discovery improves chances of developing drugs that directly combat Ebola infections.
A breakthrough discovery identifies a key gene, SIRT3, that exacerbates the development of metabolic syndrome, a condition linked to obesity, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance. The study suggests that increasing SIRT3 activity could help alleviate symptoms and develop new treatments for this growing health concern.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute have identified the small tumor protein (sT) as the oncoprotein that triggers Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC), a rare but deadly skin cancer. The discovery could improve diagnosis and understanding of MCC, potentially shedding light on other cancers.
North Carolina State University is leading a $25 million project to study human noroviruses across the food supply chain. The goal is to design effective control measures and reduce virus-caused food-borne illnesses, which affect over 5 million people in the US annually.
A new strain of bacteria infecting humans with ehrlichiosis has been found in Wisconsin and Minnesota, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The discovery highlights the importance of testing for tick-borne diseases in these states.
Researchers track both clinical cases of West Nile Virus and infected mosquito populations to identify 'danger zones' and predict outbreaks. They also analyze the virus's genetic types, dynamics, and mobility to better understand its migration patterns.
The Gladstone Institutes will explore the molecular basis of HIV latency and develop inhibitors against cellular proteins to potentially cure HIV-infected patients. The funding is part of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases' Martin Delaney Collaboratory initiative.
Inhibiting heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) prevents liver cancer in mice by reducing access to glucose and lipids, which are critical for tumor growth. This finding supports the idea that altering metabolism can be an effective cancer treatment.