A retrospective analysis of 198,846 hospitalizations in France from March to November 2020 reveals major changes in the age and sex of hospitalized patients during the pandemic. The probability of ICU admission and death varied substantially over time, with a decrease followed by an increase in both cases.
Scientists at Institut Pasteur have successfully visualized neural stem cell activation in adult zebrafish brains, demonstrating coordinated events in time and space. This breakthrough may improve understanding of regulation processes during brain tumor formation.
The UK variant B.1.1.7 is neutralized by 95% of serum samples from infected individuals, while the South African variant B.1.351 requires six times higher antibody concentrations to be neutralized effectively. Vaccinated individuals also show reduced efficacy against the South African variant.
Scientists visualized anti-CD20 antibody effects in tumors using innovative imaging, finding macrophages play a crucial role in therapy efficacy. The study suggests increasing macrophage presence could boost therapeutic antibody effectiveness.
Research reveals that an imbalance in gut bacteria can cause depressive-like behaviors by reducing essential lipid metabolites. Transferring healthy gut bacteria from one animal to another can restore normal brain function and alleviate depression.
Research reveals two gene mutations in nicotinic receptors may confer 'protection' against cocaine addiction by modulating an early phase in the addiction cycle. The mutations reduce voluntary intake of cocaine and slow transition from first use to signs of addiction.
Scientists developed four serological assays to detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and two for neutralizing antibodies, showing that antibody responses appear 5-6 days after symptoms, with neutralizing activity after 7-14 days. The assays were highly sensitive and specific, with varying levels of availability depending on equipment.
Scientists discovered human monoclonal antibodies specific to HBV surface antigens in natural controllers, which showed neutralizing ability and capabilities of blocking viral infection. The findings highlight a promising therapeutic tool for treating chronic HBV infection and may provide an alternative to existing treatments.
The emergence of artemisinin-resistant malaria parasites in Rwanda marks a major concern for global health. Significant proportions of parasites carrying the R561H mutation have been detected, indicating that these resistant strains can spread between locations and acquire resistance to partner drugs.
Researchers at Institut Pasteur found that immune cells can attack cancer cells remotely through soluble molecules like interferon-gamma. This discovery supports a key target for future immunotherapy approaches and may enable T lymphocytes to act on a large number of cancer cells.
Researchers have visualized a broadly neutralizing human monoclonal antibody, RVC20, which blocks the entry of the rabies virus into cells. The findings highlight new perspectives for prevention and treatment of the deadly disease.
Scientists at Institut Pasteur and CNRS identified molecules capable of inhibiting DNA methylation, killing even the most resistant Plasmodium falciparum parasites. The results showed significant activity comparable to chloroquine, with some inhibitors killing parasites in just 6 hours.
Researchers discovered a key factor, USF1, that inhibits p53 activity, promoting gastric cancer development. USF1 levels can indicate poor prognosis and help identify patients at higher risk of severe forms of gastric cancer.
Scientists from Institut Pasteur have identified a key protein associated with ageing, which is progressively depleted in cells leading to senescence. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms of senescence and its link to cellular ageing, paving the way for potential therapeutic targets.
A study published in PNAS found that gut microbiota imbalance promotes the onset of colorectal cancer. A non-invasive blood test has been developed to identify the epigenetic phenomenon associated with dysbiosis, which was validated in 1,000 individuals.
Researchers developed a novel genomic analysis method for classifying Yersinia strains, revealing unexpected biodiversity and new species. The tool enables accurate identification of pathogenicity, guiding patient monitoring and public health initiatives.
A vaccine for Lassa fever, a hemorrhagic disease causing up to 6,000 deaths annually, is set to enter human clinical trials. The measles platform-based vaccine demonstrated the best protection against the virus in preclinical tests.
Researchers at Institut Pasteur have identified GDF11 as a blood factor involved in weight loss and aging. The study shows that GDF11 mimics the benefits of calorie restriction, inducing metabolic changes and promoting neurogenesis in the brain.
Researchers at the Institut Pasteur successfully reprogrammed immune cells from individuals who naturally control HIV infection, granting them enhanced antiviral potency. This breakthrough could lead to novel treatments and potential cure options for those living with HIV, as previously described in a study published in Nature Metabolism.
A recent study has discovered that IgG antibodies can contribute to drug-induced anaphylactic shock by activating neutrophils, leading to high doses of vasodilating mediators. This finding explains up to 10-20% of previously unexplained cases and may help improve diagnosis and treatment for patients with this condition.
An observational study found that human contact was responsible for 90% of the spread of one species of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to new patients. However, the same level of transmission was not seen with another species, highlighting the need for multiple prevention strategies.
Research finds that adult cases with respiratory symptoms are more likely to transmit the virus, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions. Contacts exposed to respiratory secretions are also at higher risk, emphasizing the need for protective measures among spouses and caregivers.
Researchers estimated that bacterial infections resistant to antibiotics resulted in a 20% higher death rate and an additional €1100 hospital stay cost. Infections accounted for 12% of all hospitalizations, with the majority caused by E.coli, MRSA, and P.areuginosa.
The 2017 pneumonic plague outbreak in Madagascar was characterized by a dominance of the pneumonic form, which accounted for 78% of reported clinical cases. The number of confirmed cases doubled every five days after the initial stage of the outbreak.
Scientists have created a genetically engineered bacterium that can specifically kill multiple antibiotic-resistant bacteria without harming beneficial bacteria. The novel tool, based on the CRISPR-Cas9 system, has shown a minimal rate of emergence of new resistance and has potential applications in treating infectious diseases.
Scientists at the Institut Pasteur have identified a cellular protein that can degrade hepatitis B virus DNA, potentially leading to a 'Trojan horse' approach to target infected liver cells. This discovery offers new hope for developing curative treatments for chronic HBV infection.
Scientists visualized CAR T cells fighting blood cancer for the first time, revealing key interactions and behaviors. The study showed that CAR T cells can directly kill tumor cells within minutes, but their effectiveness is hindered by aggregation and infiltration issues.
Scientists at Institut Pasteur and Inserm have found that an immune response generated when solid food is introduced in mice prevents inflammatory disorders. The reaction involves regulatory T cells and balances the immune system, leading to lower susceptibility to allergies, colitis, autoimmune diseases, and cancer.
Scientists discover Zika virus has been circulating in Thailand since at least 2002, defying South American pattern of viral strain similarity. The finding highlights the need for effective long-term surveillance systems to monitor the virus's activity.
Researchers found genetic evidence of malaria's emergence in Sub-Saharan Africa dating back to at least 20,000 years ago. The study challenges the long-held assumption that agriculture led to the spread of malaria.
Scientists have successfully restored auditory synapse function and hearing thresholds to a near-normal level in adult mice with DFNB9 deafness. The breakthrough uses an AAV-based gene therapy approach that can be used to produce otoferlin and durably correct the profound deafness phenotype in mice.
Researchers discovered that most tunneling nanotubes are composed of multiple smaller tubes and have thin wires connecting them, allowing for organelle transport. This discovery challenges the dogma of cells as individual units, showing they can exchange materials without a membrane barrier.
Researchers at Institut Pasteur have identified CD4 T lymphocytes as a key target for HIV infection and developed a new approach to eliminate infected cells. By blocking the virus's energy production, scientists can destroy infected reservoirs, potentially leading to remission.
Scientists visualize immune system's action on tumor development, revealing its impact on cancer cell heterogeneity. The study highlights the potential for optimizing therapeutic combinations and sequences to improve immunotherapy outcomes.
Scientists discovered a genetic mutation in the CHRNA5 gene that contributes to nicotine dependence and relapse. The study found that this mutation increases nicotine consumption and rates of relapse, offering hope for developing new therapies to combat tobacco addiction.
A recent study by scientists at the Institut Pasteur has demonstrated that tiger mosquitoes (Aedes albopictus) can transmit the yellow fever virus. The research found that the virus can adapt to this species, which is widely present in urban and forest areas, posing a major public health threat.
Lyme borreliosis is a vector-borne disease in Europe caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. A recent study found that infection can occur within 24 hours of an adult tick bite and as soon as 12 hours for nymph bites, highlighting the importance of prompt removal of infected ticks.
Researchers identified a unique microbial signature in the guts of malnourished children, characterized by widespread presence of bacteria normally found in noses and mouths. The study, part of the Afribiota project, aims to improve treatment and diagnosis of chronic malnutrition.
The ANRS CLEAC study found that early antiretroviral therapy in infants reduces the risk of death in early childhood and decreases the viral reservoir, promoting a healthier immune system. This benefit persists into late childhood and even adulthood, marking a significant milestone in HIV treatment.
Researchers discovered bacterial aggregates behave like a thick liquid, facilitating meningococcal infection progression and highlighting the importance of type IV pili in aggregate formation. The study's findings provide new insights into the mechanisms governing disease development.
Scientists analyzed 182 Candida albicans genome strains to understand its reproductive methods and genetic diversification. The study confirmed clonal reproduction but also found evidence of parasexual reproduction contributing to the pathogen's ability to adapt and evolve.
Scientists have discovered over 100 different cell types in the sea anemone, including complex neuronal diversity. This finding adds to discussions on cell evolution and development, providing insights into the fundamental rules governing cell function across animals.
A collaborative development of a dengue vaccine candidate has been announced by Institut Pasteur, BioNet-Asia and In-Cell-Art. The project aims to develop a single injection containing diverse antigens that vary in key positions to induce immune responses with unprecedented breadth and potency.
Scientists from Institut Pasteur and partners have developed a cellular test to verify the safety of live vaccines like yellow fever vaccine. The 3D culture model, BBB-Minibrain, detects rare mutant particles with neuroinvasive properties, paving the way for reduced animal testing in quality control.
A team of scientists developed a mathematical model to analyze antibody levels in Thai patients, identifying a 'window of risk' for individuals who are more susceptible to severe forms of the disease. The study's findings offer new insights into dengue infection and may lead to closer monitoring and vaccination strategies.
Researchers found that IgG antibodies play a key role in the severity of anaphylactic shock by activating blood platelets. Platelet activation may be behind the process, leading to a drop in body temperature and reduced circulating platelet count.
10% of patients infected with the rising European strain experience abdominal pain, a symptom often overlooked by doctors. The study's findings highlight the need to consider this atypical form of meningococcal disease in medical diagnosis.
A genomics study in Africa discovered that the genetic diversity and admixture of pygmies and Bantu-speaking farmers affected deleterious mutations. The researchers found similar burdens of mutations in both groups, despite different lifestyles.
A new bacterial species, Listeria costaricensis, has been identified in Costa Rica, increasing the knowledge of Listeria's pathogenic potential. The discovery was made through a three-year research project that sampled water from an industrial drainage area, revealing the biodiversity of Costa Rican soils.
A novel point-of-care Hepatitis C assay has been developed to diagnose chronic cases in asymptomatic patients, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The assay detects HCV RNA reliably, faster than existing methods, and can be used at the point of care, reducing the need for centralized laboratories.