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How Omicron escapes from antibodies

A computational study finds that Omicron's spike protein has evolved to evade multiple classes of antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2, even those from vaccinated individuals and monoclonal antibody treatments. The study suggests vaccines still offer protection due to the development of T cell immunity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

mRNA vaccines highly effective at preventing death from COVID-19, less effective at preventing infection

Researchers found that mRNA vaccines were highly effective (86%) in preventing SARS-CoV-2-related deaths among vaccinated individuals, especially in the elderly population. However, vaccine effectiveness against infection was lower (69%) and decreased with increasing age and comorbidity burden.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 20, 2021

A longer-lasting COVID vaccine? UCLA study points the way

Researchers at UCLA have identified rare T cells capable of targeting a protein found in SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses. By adding a fragment of this protein to vaccines, they hope to create a longer-lasting immune response and increase protection against new variants. This breakthrough could lead to more effective COVID-19 vaccines.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Protein region on COVID’s viral spike senses temperature, drives seasonal mutation patterns

Researchers identify a molecular culprit for COVID-19's seasonal nature, finding a galectin-like structure on the spike protein that responds to external seasonal patterns. This discovery could help predict future mutations and potentially pave the way for new therapeutics or vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalMethods of Microbiology and Molecular Biology·DateDec 8, 2021

The number of SARS-CoV-2 infections among vaccinated people could be overestimated unless appropriate diagnostic tests are used, says ISGlobal study

Research team discovered mRNA vaccines induce antibodies recognizing Spike and N protein fragments, potentially leading to misclassified breakthrough infections. The study suggests using multiple viral antigens for accurate detection of vaccine effectiveness.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalTranslational Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 18, 2021

Machine learning IDs mammal species with the potential to spread SARS-CoV-2

A new study used machine learning to predict the zoonotic capacity of 5,400 mammal species, identifying those at high risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2. The model, which combined data on biological traits with ACE2 receptor information, predicted 72% accuracy and identified numerous additional species with potential to transmit the virus.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 16, 2021

New target for COVID-19 vaccines identified

Researchers have discovered a new target for COVID-19 vaccines that could complement existing vaccines by inducing an immune response against 'replication proteins', essential for the viral cycle. The approach may lead to the creation of a pan-coronaviruses vaccine protecting against SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2021

Change in vaccination strategy averted outbreak of urban yellow fever in São Paulo State, scientists say

An updated vaccination strategy is credited with averting an outbreak of urban yellow fever in São Paulo State, according to research published in Scientific Reports. The study found that the virus spread rapidly, reaching cities never affected before, and that a high number of cases were reported in areas with low vaccination coverage.

Needle-free COVID-19 vaccine shows promise

Researchers at University of Queensland successfully protected mice from COVID-19 using a US-developed vaccine candidate delivered via a pocket-sized, pain-free applicator. The vaccine produced strong immune responses and neutralized multiple variants, including UK and South Africa variants.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 29, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists create device that uses ‘light tweezers’ to trap and move viruses

Researchers developed a device that uses light to manipulate and isolate individual viruses, enabling precise diagnosis, treatment, and study of viruses. The device has the potential to aid in vaccine development and research on SARS-CoV-2 virus, allowing for targeted analysis of specific virus mutants.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021

Mathematical constructions of COVID virus activity could provide new insight for vaccines, treatment

Researchers developed a mathematical model to study the action of SARS-CoV-2, enabling the examination of individual virus particles and their spikes. This analysis can help fine-tune prevention and treatment by providing insights into viral load, spike distribution, and cell infection potential.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Mathematical Analysis and Applications·DateSep 23, 2021

Discovery of a universal system for transporting nucleic acids into cells

A team of researchers from IOCB Prague has discovered a new type of nanoparticles capable of safely transporting various types of nucleic acids used for therapeutic purposes into cells. The universal nature of their system sets it apart from existing solutions, allowing for efficient transport of mRNA and other RNA molecules into cells.

HPV vaccine safety concerns of parents

Increasing concerns about HPV vaccine safety among parents are linked to misinformation and a lack of understanding of the vaccine's benefits. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence supporting its safety, survey results indicate a growing number of parents are hesitant to vaccinate their children.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 17, 2021

As more US adults intend to have covid vaccine, national study also finds more people feel it’s not needed

A national study of 75,000 US adults found a near 18 percentage point increase in those willing to get vaccinated, but also a rise in skepticism among certain groups. Disparities persist in vaccine confidence, particularly among younger adults, non-Hispanic Black or multiple races, and lower socioeconomic status.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAnnals of Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 6, 2021

A step toward a universal flu vaccine

A new study describes a vaccine that triggers an immune response against an influenza protein segment rarely mutated by the virus, raising the possibility of effective protection against seasonal and pandemic strains. The vaccine uses nanoparticles coated with flu proteins to train the immune system to create desired antibodies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Systems·DateOct 7, 2020

Investigational breast cancer vaccine plus immune therapy work well in tandem

A new vaccine targeting HER2-positive breast cancers has been shown to work effectively in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors, resulting in pronounced tumor reduction and long-term tumor-free survival. The study found that the vaccine primes the immune system, allowing the checkpoint inhibitor to rally T-cells to action.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJul 30, 2020

Detection of oral HPV DNA in teen, young adult females

Researchers detected oral HPV DNA in 6.2% of teen and young adult female participants, with detection decreasing over time since becoming sexually active. The study suggests that the HPV vaccine is less effective against certain types of oral HPV in vaccinated individuals compared to those who are fully unvaccinated.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 25, 2019

Exciting new vaccine targets killer disease TB

Researchers have developed a new type of vaccine targeting tuberculosis, providing substantial protection against the deadly disease. The early-stage vaccine was shown to be effective in pre-clinical laboratory settings and demonstrated its ability to stimulate the immune response in the lungs.

SourceCentenary Institute·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 23, 2019