Articles tagged with Antivirals
Scientists screened 6,000 existing compounds for their effectiveness against Zika virus infections and identified two classes of promising drugs: neuroprotective and antiviral agents. Three drugs showed robust results, but further studies are needed to confirm their efficacy in humans.
Scientists have found genetic structures similar to other viruses in the Flaviviridae family in the Zika virus genome, which may serve as potential antiviral drug targets. The study identified seven G-quadruplexes shared with viral cousins and a unique structure consistent within the Zika virus strains.
Research suggests removing drug use barriers to effective hep C treatment for opioid-addicted patients. The elbasvir-grazoprevir treatment showed high sustained virologic response rates in a randomized trial. In contrast, lipid screening evidence is lacking for younger adults.
Researchers at UW-Madison and Purdue University have solved the atomic structure of rhinovirus C, a cold virus linked to severe asthma and respiratory infections in children. The findings provide a foundation for future antiviral drug and vaccine development against the virus.
A phase II clinical trial showed that GEN-003 immunotherapy significantly reduces genital herpes virus activity and recurrent outbreaks, lasting up to a year after treatment. This new approach may provide relief similar to daily antiviral medications but with improved convenience.
Scientists have successfully obtained a high-resolution image of the Zika virus helicase, a key target for antiviral development. The structural information will help researchers design and develop effective small-molecule inhibitors to stop viral replication and prevent disease.
Researchers have identified an experimental antiviral drug that slows down Zika virus development in mice. The study suggests the drug may provide protection against Zika-induced symptoms and microcephaly in pregnant women.
Researchers developed a high-throughput screening strategy that identified multiple compounds with potent antimicrobial activity against an antibiotic-resistant strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae. The study also showed the potential of these compounds as adjunctive treatments to restore the effectiveness of antibiotics.
Patients with compensated HCV cirrhosis who respond to antiviral therapies have similar survival rates as the general population, according to a new study. The study found that treatment should be given as early as possible to achieve maximum benefit.
A new analysis suggests invoking a little-known 'patent use' law to permit generic versions of patented drugs for government-sponsored insurance programs. This action could allow more patients to access effective drugs like those for hepatitis C at lower costs.
The study details the transmission of Zika virus through mosquitoes and human-to-human contact, as well as its association with neurological disorders and birth defects. Researchers emphasize the need for antiviral agents and vaccines to combat the outbreak.
A new study finds that generic direct-acting antiviral treatment for Hepatitis C can deliver high sustained virologic response rates comparable to branded treatments, but at a significantly lower price. The results suggest that generic DAAs could support access to treatment in many countries where it is currently unaffordable.
A recent study reveals that single mutations can inhibit HIV-1 replication using CRISPR/Cas9, but some also lead to unexpected resistance. Targeting multiple viral DNA regions may be necessary for the antiviral aspect of CRISPR/Cas9 to be effective.
Scientists at Stanford University have revived an abandoned drug that shows promise in fighting two disease-causing viruses, dengue and VEEV. The drug works by boosting the human body's ability to resist viruses rather than directly targeting them.
A multi-center trial will test the effectiveness of Harvoni in treating hepatitis C virus (HCV) in liver transplant patients. The $3.8M grant, funded by Gilead Sciences, aims to evaluate the drug's cure rate and compare it to existing treatments.
Scientists at University of Utah Health discovered that spironolactone, a medicine for heart failure, can also inhibit Epstein Barr virus by blocking a key step in viral infection. This finding has broader implications, suggesting that spironolactone could be developed into a new class of anti-herpesvirus drug.
A team of Dutch investigators has identified NS4B as a potential target for antiviral drug development against dengue virus. A metabolite of acetaminophen, AM404, inhibits replication of the virus. The researchers found that mutations in the viral NS4B protein render the virus insensitive to AM404.
A new study published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases found that early treatment with the influenza antiviral drug oseltamivir can shorten the time a pregnant woman spends in the hospital, especially for those with severe illness. Annual flu vaccination is also crucial to prevent complications and protect the newborn baby.
A mathematical model accurately predicted the results of a herpes drug study, pinpointing the most effective dose for treatment. The model considers the complex immune response against the virus, improving upon current methods that neglect this aspect.
Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München discover that Cistus incanus extracts prevent human immunodeficiency viruses from infecting cells and block Ebola- and Marburg viral envelope proteins. The study demonstrates broad antiviral activity of Ci extracts against various major human viral pathogens.
Researchers have discovered a compound that induces genes to control infection in several known viruses, including West Nile and Ebola. The findings show promising evidence for creating a broad-spectrum antiviral that can suppress a range of RNA viruses.
Researchers found that flaviviruses target peroxisomes to subvert the body's early antiviral defenses. The degradation of protein Pex19 leads to a loss of interferon production, making cells more vulnerable to viral infection.
Novel antiviral therapies for hepatitis C have transformed treatment, effectively reducing HCV in over 90% of cases. Enhanced screening and treatment efforts could virtually eliminate the disease within a decade by increasing treatment rates four-fold.
The article reviews the use of antivirals in managing retrovirus-infected cats, with a focus on feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV). Best practice recommendations are presented for treatment regimens that may include zidovudine, plerixafor, or feline interferon omega.
A new study found that gamma interferon, an FDA-approved drug, completely protects mice from death when given either before or up to 24 hours after exposure to Ebola. The treatment targets macrophages and blocks the infection of those initial cell targets, preventing a second round of infection.
Favipiravir successfully treats Lassa virus infection in guinea pigs, with high-dose treatment offering complete protection. The antiviral drug outperforms ribavirin, which can cause severe disease after treatment ends.
A Yale University study found that nearly one in four patients with chronic hepatitis C are denied initial approval for a drug therapy. The finding reveals factors beyond disease state and medical necessity affecting treatment access, including public insurance status and advanced liver disease.
A case-series of eight British healthcare workers who received antiviral-based therapies after possible accidental exposure to Ebola virus in Sierra Leone did not develop the disease. The study suggests that post-exposure prophylaxis may be effective in preventing Ebola infection, and authors call for standardised guidelines to be deve...
Researchers discovered that lentiviruses closely related to HIV have infected primates in Africa as far back as 16 million years. The TRIM5 protein, an antiviral gene, has evolved to protect host cells from infection and provides insight into the evolution of viruses.
Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital tested a new drug that prevents blood vessels from leaking into the lungs, reducing mortality rates in mice infected with influenza. The treatment, Vasculotide, was effective against multiple strains of flu and worked when administered days after infection began.
The FDA has published a paper highlighting its scientific approaches and regulatory processes for approving promising hepatitis C drugs. The agency emphasizes flexibility in considering innovative trial designs without compromising efficacy standards.
A prospective study found that telbivudine prevented perinatal transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in pregnant women with high viral loads. The study showed a significant reduction in HBV transmission in infants whose mothers received telbivudine, with almost no positive tests after six months.
The HCV-TARGET study shows all-oral direct-acting antiviral therapy is highly effective and well tolerated in patients with decompensated cirrhosis, with SVR rates of 75%, 77% and 81%. Liver function markers also improve during short-term follow-up.
San Diego State University researchers have developed a platform to identify drugs that interrupt viral proliferation, using dengue virus as an example. A novel drug, Thiostrepton, was identified which may someday be used to combat the disease.
Lorne Tyrrell, a renowned virologist, has been awarded the 2015 Killam Prize for Health Sciences for his groundbreaking work on viral hepatitis. His research has led to the development of an effective treatment for hepatitis B and is being continued in efforts to create a vaccine for hepatitis C.
A Review article discusses how existing drugs like Viagra can reduce the activity of a specific chaperone protein, HSPA5/Dna K, which may lead to anti-tumor and anti-Alzheimer's disease effects. The study also reveals potential applications in treating antibiotic-resistant infections and chemotherapy-resistant cancers.
The NIH-led ASCEND study assesses the effectiveness of primary care physicians and nurse practitioners in treating people with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The trial aims to determine whether these medications are similarly effective when administered in an urban, community-based setting.
New American Gastroenterological Association guidelines provide guidance on managing HBV reactivation in patients undergoing long-term immunosuppressive therapy. The guidelines recommend screening for HBV in patients at moderate or high risk, and consider prophylaxis with anti-hepatitis B therapeutics.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that Tamiflu significantly shortens the duration of flu symptoms by about one day and reduces respiratory infections by 44%., Researchers analyzed data from over 4,300 patients and found the drug also decreased hospital admissions by 63%.
Researchers found a class of compounds that could be effective in combating infections caused by enterovirus D68, which has been linked to polio-like symptoms. The study used X-ray crystallography to learn the structure of the virus and an anti-viral compound called pleconaril.
A study found that entecavir significantly reduced the incidence of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatitis and HBV reactivation among patients receiving rituximab-based chemotherapy. The rates were lower in the entecavir group compared to the lamivudine group, with significant reductions in HBV-related complications.
A study published in eLife has found that favipiravir is effective at lowering norovirus levels in the body, which may help reduce disease severity and prevent onward transmission. The experimental drug works by causing the virus to self-destruct through a process called lethal mutagenesis.
New anti-viral drugs and vaccines are urgently needed to combat Human parainfluenza virus, a leading cause of respiratory tract disease in young children. Researchers have identified potent inhibitors that block both cell entry and virion release, offering hope for treatment and prevention.
Researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine identified how Ebola dodges antiviral defenses by hijacking a host protein's ability to carry an important immune signal. This finding could lead to new therapies targeting the virus's deadliness.
A study of 6,800 outpatients found antiviral therapy was given to only 19% of those at high risk for complications, while antibiotics were prescribed to 30%. The findings suggest a need for increased education on appropriate use in outpatient settings.
Scientists discovered a new pathway the dengue virus takes to suppress the human immune system, deepening understanding of the virus and its potential for more effective treatments. The study reveals how sfRNA interacts with proteins in the cell to evade antiviral defenses.
Researchers have identified a type I interferon marker that can predict patients with an increased risk of HCV relapse after antiviral therapy. Patients who maintain a strong type I interferon response are more likely to remain HCV-free.
Researchers found that triple-negative breast cancer tumors rely on an antiviral pathway driving inflammation, which can be treated with JAK inhibitors. Patients missing both p53 and ARF genes may benefit from these anti-inflammatory drugs.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have found a major clue to the mystery of hemorrhagic fever syndromes, linking them to the body's antiviral response and identifying Interferon Type I proteins as key drivers of disease. Blocking IFN-I signaling may be a good therapeutic strategy against hemorrhagic fevers.
Researchers at UBC have discovered a key enzyme, MMP12, that plays a crucial role in deploying the antiviral protein Interferon alpha. The team has developed a new drug that blocks this enzyme, keeping Interferon alpha levels high and boosting the immune system's response to viral infections.
Scientists have discovered how hepatitis C virus proteins interact within human cells, revealing a better understanding of viral replication and pathogenesis. This knowledge paves the way for developing new antiviral substances with low cellular toxicity.
Researchers developed a novel antiviral drug to combat measles by reducing virus levels in animals. The drug also prevented animals from dying of the disease and boosted their immunity against the virus. While promising, additional research is needed before its use in humans.
Scientists at The University of Texas at Austin have discovered that the influenza A virus uses a protein called NS1 to outwit the body's natural defense mechanism DDX21, which blocks viral replication. By targeting NS1, researchers may be able to develop new antiviral drugs to combat the flu.
A new study finds that shingles significantly increases the risk of stroke in the first six months after symptoms appear. However, patients treated with oral antiviral medication for their shingles may experience lower stroke risks compared to those not treated.
A large meta-analysis involving over 29,000 patients from 38 countries found that antiviral drugs like Tamiflu reduced the risk of death from H1N1 influenza by 25% in adults hospitalized. Treatment within 48 hours of symptom onset was associated with a halved risk of death compared to later treatment or no treatment.
A UCLA-led team of researchers has found evidence that photosensitizing a virus's membrane covering can inhibit its ability to enter cells. This process could lead to the development of stronger, cheaper medications to fight a host of tough viruses.
A commonly-used HIV drug has been shown to kill-off the human papilloma virus (HPV) that leads to cervical cancer. The study found a high proportion of women diagnosed with HPV positive high-grade disease returned to normal following a short course of the new treatment.
Researchers found that HCV antiviral therapy reduces risks of kidney disease, stroke, and cardiovascular diseases in diabetic patients. The study also linked diabetes with chronic HCV infection, suggesting a potential association between the two conditions.
Mount Sinai researchers found that a drug-resistant H7N9 virus retained its ability to replicate and cause severe illness in humans, even after becoming resistant to Tamiflu. The study suggests that flu viruses can develop drug-resistant mutations without suffering a penalty in terms of their fitness.
Researchers at Umea University found that Tamiflu's active metabolite can contaminate river water in Japan, making the virus resistant to antiviral medications. The team aims to develop a national knowledge center on antiviral drug effects and improve wastewater treatment to prevent pandemics.