The cell sentinel that neutralizes hepatitis B
A UNIGE team identified a three-step mechanism that allows our body to defend itself against hepatitis B. The complex detects the viral DNA, traps it, and inhibits the virus' chromosome.
Antivirals
Articles tagged with Antivirals
Life Sciences
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
447,757
articles
2542
topics
Health and Medicine
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
431,843
articles
751
topics
Social Sciences
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
260,756
articles
745
topics
Physical Sciences
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
257,913
articles
1552
topics
Applied Sciences and Engineering
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
225,386
articles
998
topics
Scientific Community
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
193,043
articles
157
topics
Space Sciences
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
29,662
articles
175
topics
Research Methods
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
21,889
articles
139
topics
Mathematics
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
3,023
articles
113
topics
New drug has potential to turn COVID-19 virus against itself
A new drug, NMT5, has shown promising results in blocking SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals. The drug coats the virus with chemicals that temporarily alter the human ACE2 receptor, preventing it from infecting cells. In cell culture experiments, the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 was prevented from attaching to human ACE2 receptors by 95%.
UK government media releases risk flouting regs on promotion of prescription only meds, warns DTB
Recent media releases from UK government agencies and NHS organizations lack objectivity and provide unbalanced information on prescription-only medicines. The Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin expresses concerns over the use of hyperbolic language and omission of key information about potential harms and benefits.
Remdesivir-resistant version of COVID-19 detected in organ transplant recipients
A new study identified a remdesivir-resistant version of COVID-19 in two kidney transplant patients treated with immunosuppressive drugs. The virus developed the V7921 gene mutation, which allows it to resist antiviral therapy, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and potential development of additional treatments.
Mucus-based lubricant proves highly effective against HIV and herpes
A synthetic prophylactic gel developed at KTH Royal Institute of Technology has shown promising results in lab tests, with a 70% effectiveness rate against HIV and an 80% effectiveness rate against herpes.
Cleveland Clinic researchers discover new signal for triggering human immune response
Researchers at Cleveland Clinic's FRIC found that cytoskeleton disruption is a key signal for the body to respond to viruses. This discovery has potential implications for developing new anti-viral vaccines and treatments.
How human cells become Zika virus factories
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered how Zika virus forces dendritic cells to churn out lipid molecules, allowing the virus to build copies of itself. This study provides a major step forward in developing antiviral therapies against multiple flavivirus infections.
New antiviral therapy may block COVID-19 transmission
Researchers developed a novel, single-dose, intranasal treatment that reduces symptoms and viral shedding of multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants. The therapeutic interfering particle (TIP) treatment effectively blocks COVID-19 transmission in animal models.
Promising anti-cancer drug also may function as COVID-19 antiviral therapy
Researchers found that RK-33 inhibits the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to replicate in host cells, making it a potential broad-spectrum antiviral agent. The study showed that RK-33's antiviral capability remains consistent across four SARS-CoV-2 variants.
UC Davis Health study reports on the safety, efficacy of tecovirimat in treating monkeypox
A UC Davis Health study found that tecovirimat appears to be safe and effective for treating monkeypox symptoms and skin lesions. The study, which included 25 patients with confirmed monkeypox infection, showed that 92% of patients had lesions in their genital or anal area, while 40% healed from their lesions within a week of treatment.
Metformin drastically reduces COVID hospitalization, study shows
A large, randomized trial found that metformin reduced serious COVID-19 outcomes by more than half in high-risk patients when started early. The study compared three medications and provided valuable insights into their effects on COVID-19.
New target structure against corona
Researchers at the University of Würzburg have found that fluoxetine and its analogue AKS466 can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus replication by trapping it in lysosomes and suppressing acid ceramidases, a new potential target for antiviral therapy.
Old drug, new trick: Researchers find combining antiviral drugs and antibody therapy could treat seasonal flu and help prevent next flu pandemic
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a combination of antiviral drugs and antibody therapies that is more effective than either approach alone. The combination boosts the virus-fighting properties of antibodies, which work by binding to infected cells and triggering the immune system to kill them.
Developing antivirals for pandemic-level viruses
The Midwest Antiviral Drug Discovery Center, led by the University of Minnesota, aims to discover effective responses to pandemics through basic, translational, and clinical research. Researchers at UIC are developing an antiviral therapy for filoviruses like Ebola with a potential drug ready for human testing within three to five years.
New drug screening tool to fight the next pandemic
Researchers at NTNU have developed a digital system called Drugvirus.info that can identify the most effective medicinal mix against viruses, reducing development time from years to months. This approach could lead to the creation of new treatments for 200 viral diseases, saving millions of euros and lives.
Reinfection rates low after successful HCV treatment in people who inject drugs
A cohort study found that reinfection rates are low after successful hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment in people who inject drugs, suggesting a benefit of treatment in this population. The risk for reinfection was highest among those with ongoing injecting drug use and needle sharing.
University of Kent researchers help future-proof COVID-19 treatments
Researchers from the University of Kent have identified new combination therapies effective against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron and Delta viruses, which may reduce novel variant formation. The study suggests that interferon-beta combinations with antiviral drugs like molnupiravir and nirmatrelvir are more effective than current treatments.
Variant type and patient sex affect molnupiravir efficacy, study finds
Molnupiravir's efficacy is affected by SARS-CoV-2 variant type and biological sex of patients, according to the study. The drug showed variable results in dwarf hamsters infected with omicron, but was more effective in males than females.
Some antivirals used in nonsevere COVID-19 may reduce hospitalizations and deaths
Researchers found that nirmatrelvir–ritonavir and molnupiravir likely reduced the risk of hospital admission by 46.2 and 16.3 admissions per 1000, respectively. The findings have implications for health care systems and clinical guidelines.
Cellular protein identified as possible drug target to combat Lassa hemorrhagic fever
Researchers have identified 42 host cell proteins that contribute to the replication and spread of Lassa virus, a disease with high morbidity and mortality in Western Africa. One potential drug target, GSPT1, was found to be involved in viral-host interactions and showed antiviral activity against Lassa without cytotoxicity.
Severe acute hepatitis of unknown causes in children is on the rise: A pediatric investigation review probes deeper for insights
A rise in severe acute hepatitis of unknown causes (SAHUC) in children has been reported worldwide, with symptoms including jaundice, vomiting, and diarrhea. Diagnostic tests such as liver enzymes and biopsy reports can help identify the disease, but its etiology remains unclear.
Clever COVID-19
MU researchers have identified specific mutations in the Omicron variant's spike protein that help it evade existing antibodies from vaccines or previous COVID-19 infections. These findings can inform developers of COVID-19 treatments and vaccines, which may need to target different parts of the virus to produce effective outcomes.
Speeding up the search for the next COVID-19 antiviral
Researchers developed a new method to quickly screen large numbers of molecules for activity against the nsp13 protein, which is essential for viral replication. The approach identified six promising compounds as potential starting points for antiviral drug development.
Targeting a human protein to squash SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses
Researchers report that apratoxin S4, an anticancer drug candidate, can interfere with viral replication in human cells. The compound was effective against multiple viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, and Zika virus. Further studies are needed to confirm its potential as a broadly acting antiviral.
Common antiretroviral drug improves cognition in mouse model of Down syndrome
Researchers found that lamivudine improved cognition in a mouse model of Down syndrome, which could lead to new pharmacological treatments for cognitive impairment. The study highlights the potential of targeting retrotransposons, segments of DNA that contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.
Immune molecules from a llama could provide protection against a vast array of SARS-like viruses including COVID-19, researchers say
Researchers have discovered llama-derived immune particles that provide strong protection against a vast array of SARS-like viruses, including COVID-19. These 'super-immunity' molecules, known as nanobodies, could be used to develop a fast-acting, inhalable antiviral treatment or spray.
Chemically modified plant compounds work against hepatitis E virus
Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum have identified modified plant compounds that can effectively inhibit the replication of the hepatitis E virus. The study found that these compounds, known as rocaglates, have a stronger effect than natural ones, with some showing inhibition at concentrations as low as 0.5 nanomolar.
Rensselaer researchers receive $3.5 million grant for development of COVID antiviral drug
Rensselaer researchers will use a five-year grant to develop novel inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 virus's CLpro and PLpro proteases. The team aims to create an orally bioavailable drug that can be administered at home, with the potential for improved antiviral activity when combined with other drugs like remdesivir.
Oral antiviral drug effective against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) identified by Biomedical Sciences researchers
Researchers at Georgia State University have identified an oral antiviral drug, AVG-388, that effectively blocks RSV's RNA polymerase, a key target for replication. The study demonstrates potent antiviral activity in animal models and human airway epithelium organoid cultures.
Rensselaer researchers make virus-fighting face masks
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed an accessible way to make N95 face masks that can kill viruses and bacteria on contact. The antiviral masks use a simple process with widely available tools, reducing plastic waste by allowing for longer wear.
Chinese Medical Journal Review shines a light on the overlooked virus, hepatitis D
Researchers discuss Hepatitis D's life cycle and interactions with its host, exploring strategies for further research to combat this overlooked virus. HDV coinfects people with hepatitis B, rapidly progressing to liver cirrhosis and cancer if left untreated, with a review published in the Chinese Medical Journal.
Current hepatitis B prevention and treatment strategies are inadequate to meet Ontario's targets
A University of Waterloo study found that current Hepatitis B vaccination, screening, and treatment strategies in Ontario would leave the province short of its goal to reduce preventable infections. The report's authors developed a computer model simulating long-term effects of existing strategies, which they found would only decrease ...
Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis publishes method for the fast detection of a key antiviral
Researchers developed a novel nanobody-based detection method for recombinant human interferon α2b (rhIFNα2b), which has a lower detection limit than existing methods. The assay's operation time was shortened from two days to a few minutes, making it suitable for rapid market counterfeit detection and early diagnosis of hepatitis.
Analysis finds additional clinical benefits of molnupiravir for nonhospitalized participants with COVID-19
A secondary analysis of the MOVe-OUT trial found molnupiravir-treated participants had a decreased need for respiratory interventions and fewer COVID-19-related acute care visits. Additionally, they showed faster normalization of biomarkers and were discharged earlier than placebo-treated patients.
Inequality is driving a black market for covid-19 antivirals that’s “putting patients’ health in jeopardy”
A global black market for COVID-19 antiviral drugs is emerging, putting patients' health in jeopardy due to unequal distribution and substandard products. The investigation found that patients are buying pills online without medical supervision, increasing the risk of birth defects and viral resistance.
Georgia State researchers awarded more than $6 million to fight emerging diseases with Midwest Antiviral Drug Discovery Center
Researchers at Georgia State University have been awarded over $6 million to develop antiviral drugs targeting COVID-19 and other viral threats. The funding will support the establishment of a new Midwest Antiviral Drug Discovery Center, which aims to build a pipeline of antiviral drugs.
THE LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES: Study reports first use of antivirals in monkeypox patients, highlighting challenges in understanding and treating this rare disease
A new retrospective study analyzed seven patients with monkeypox in the UK between 2018 and 2021, suggesting potential benefits of antiviral medications like tecovirimat. However, brincidofovir showed little clinical benefit and raised concerns about liver toxicity.
U of M receives NIAID grant to develop drug treatments for future viral pandemics
The University of Minnesota has received a $66 million grant from the NIAID to establish a center for developing antiviral drugs for pandemic-level viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. The Midwest Antiviral Drug Discovery Center will bring together investigators from the University and sixteen other institutions nationwide.
Epidemiologist and health security expert says clinicians should prepare for monkeypox
The current monkeypox outbreak is more widespread than previous ones outside of Africa, with significant cases reported in Europe, the UK, and North America. A notable increase in cases among men who have sex with men has been observed, although the cause remains unclear.
Repurposed antibiotic may be an effective therapeutic in COVID-19 infected mice
A study published in PLOS Pathogens suggests that the repurposed antibiotic clofoctol may be an effective therapeutic for SARS-CoV-2 infected mice, with decreased viral load, reduced inflammatory gene expression, and lowered pulmonary pathology. Further studies are needed to confirm its potential as a treatment for COVID-19 patients.
NIAID announces antiviral drug development awards
The NIAID has awarded $577 million to establish nine Antiviral Drug Discovery Centers to develop candidate COVID-19 antivirals. The centers will conduct innovative research to identify novel viral targets and develop small molecules and biotherapeutics to block viral targets.
Throwing drug resistance for a loop
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have developed a novel class of therapeutics called feedback disruptors that target viral proteins' negative feedback loops. These drugs break the genetic feedback circuits, causing infected cells to self-destruct and stopping infection in its tracks.
SARS-CoV-2 hijacks antiviral human proteins to enter human cells
Research found that SARS-CoV-2 relies on human transmembrane proteins, especially IFITM2, to replicate efficiently and produce infectious viruses. Antibodies targeting IFITM2 can protect lung cells from infection, suggesting a promising therapeutic approach by targeting host factors instead of viral ones.
Copper is effective against Sars-Cov-2 on surfaces – silver is not
Researchers found that copper-coated surfaces significantly reduced viral load after one hour, while silver-coated surfaces had no effect on infectivity. The team investigated the antiviral properties of various metal-based sacrificial anodes and discovered a clear antiviral effect of copper against Sars-Cov-2.
Resistance to COVID-19 drug detected in lab study
A laboratory study by Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers detected COVID-19 virus developing resistance to remdesivir through mutations in the polymerase enzyme. The study highlights the importance of monitoring for resistance and developing combination therapies.
WHO strongly recommends antiviral drug for patients with non-severe COVID-19
The World Health Organization recommends Pfizer's nirmatrelvir/ritonavir for non-severe COVID-19 patients at highest risk of hospitalization, reducing hospital admissions by 84 per 1,000 patients. The guideline also suggests using remdesivir for high-risk patients and acknowledges cost and resource implications.
Can nanotechnology help fight viruses?
Recent advances in nanomaterial-based antiviral strategies have generated promising results, including antiviral nanodrugs, drug nanocarriers, and nanovaccines. These nano-sized particles can be useful for targeted delivery of antiviral treatments, leading to improved efficacy and reduced systemic toxicity.
Scientists develop indoor-active photocatalyst for antiviral coating against various variant types of novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2
Researchers developed a solid-state photocatalyst using TiO2 and CuO nanoclusters to inactivate various variants of SARS-CoV-2. The material is effective under both darkness and indoor light, making it suitable for reducing COVID-19 infection risk in indoor environments.
New COVID-19 nasal spray outperforms current antibody treatments in mice
Researchers developed a protein-based antiviral nasal spray that thwarts infection by interfering with the virus' ability to enter cells. The treatment neutralizes all tested SARS-CoV-2 variants, including omicron subvariants, and is more cost-effective and self-administerable than current antibody therapies.
Immunologists unravel battle plans of deadly coronaviruses
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have discovered how SARS and MERS coronaviruses block the induction of antiviral proteins, preventing a strong immune response. This finding has potential implications for developing new therapeutic options to treat COVID-19 and future deadly coronaviruses.
Deciphering insect-borne viruses
Scientists are working on understanding the interplay between flaviviruses and mitochondria in hopes of finding new treatment options. By deciphering this process, researchers may be able to find broad-spectrum therapeutic targets for diseases like Zika, dengue, and West Nile.
New analysis of investigational COVID antiviral drug molnupiravir shows it appears to clear virus equally well in immunocompromised patients and those who are immunocompetent
A new analysis of data on molnupiravir shows the drug effectively clears active SARS-CoV-2 virus in both immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised patients. The study found similar reductions in viral replication and no infectious virus detected after treatment, indicating equal efficacy in both groups.
Data from investigational COVID-19 antiviral drug molnupiravir suggest better outcomes for most COVID-related symptoms than placebo
An analysis of patient-reported data on molnupiravir suggests improved outcomes for most COVID-related symptoms, including loss of smell and fatigue. The drug also showed reduced symptom progression in non-hospitalized patients with high-risk conditions.
New virology data shows the investigational COVID antiviral drug molnupiravir eliminates actively infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus by day 3 of starting therapy
New data from the MOVe-OUT trial reveals that molnupiravir significantly reduces SARS-CoV-2 infection within three days of treatment. In contrast, those receiving a placebo took up to five days to clear the virus. The study confirms molnupiravir's effectiveness in accelerating viral RNA decline and eliminating infectious virus.
Alpaca nanobodies potently neutralize SARS-CoV-2 variants
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have developed a novel strategy to identify potent miniature antibodies, so-called nanobodies, against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. The approach led to the discovery of multiple nanobodies that effectively blocked infection with different SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Yale researchers identify remdesivir-resistant variant of SARS-CoV-2 virus in immunocompromised patient
Researchers at Yale have identified a remdesivir-resistant variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in an immunocompromised patient. The discovery raises concerns about drug resistance in COVID-19 patients, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
Chemical found in leafy greens shown to slow growth of COVID-19 and common cold viruses
Researchers found that sulforaphane inhibits replication of SARS-CoV-2 and HCoV-OC43 coronaviruses in cells and mice, reducing viral burden by up to 50%. Sulforaphane also helps control immune response and protects against lung injury.
Study shows effectiveness of pill form of remdesivir to treat COVID-19 in mice
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have developed a new oral compound that is as effective as molnupiravir in reducing disease in mice, showing promise for treating COVID-19. The pill form of remdesivir could make it accessible for early treatment and reduce hospitalization rates.
BioAge’s oral drug prevents death from COVID-19 in old mice by reversing immune aging
BGE-175 effectively prevents death in a mouse model of COVID-19 by reversing immune aging, suggesting its potential to protect elderly patients hospitalized with COVID-19. The drug restores the immune system to a more youthful state by blocking the PGD2-DP1 pathway.
Sponges, not just their microbes, make biologically potent compounds
Researchers have discovered that sea sponges themselves produce biologically active compounds, including terpenes with potential malaria-fighting properties. This finding represents a 'fundamental shift' in the field and opens up new avenues for drug discovery using animals as vessels.