Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Cause of viral infection of the brain mapped out

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine has identified a genetic defect in the immune system that can lead to fatal brain inflammation in some people infected with the herpes virus. The discovery may also shed light on other types of viral infections, such as meningitis and influenza.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateOct 20, 2015

Liquid DNA behind virus attacks

Researchers at Lund University have discovered that viruses can convert their solid DNA to a liquid form, making it easier to infect cells. This temperature-dependent phase transition could lead to the development of new medicines targeting virus DNA, potentially reducing infection capability and spreading.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 2014

Healthy humans make nice homes for viruses

A recent study found that healthy individuals carry an average of five types of viruses on their bodies, with some individuals harboring up to 15 viruses. The researchers discovered seven families of viruses, including strains of herpes viruses not associated with sexually transmitted infections.

Link between ritual circumcision procedure and herpes infection in infants examined

A literature review found that metzitzah b'peh, a Jewish circumcision procedure involving oral suction, is likely a source of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) transmissions in infants. The practice has been linked to severe morbidity and potentially death in newborns, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateJul 24, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Dec. 3, 2013 -- 'Overweight and healthy' is a myth

The American College of Physicians recommends that individuals with heart disease should only receive red blood cell transfusions if they have severe anemia. Additionally, researchers found that the concept of 'healthy and overweight' is a myth, as individuals in the same BMI category can have varied metabolic features. The study's fin...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 2, 2013

Key mechanism behind herpes revealed

Biochemist Alex Evilevitch measures internal pressure of HSV-1, revealing key mechanism behind herpes infection and paving way for new medicine development. The discovery could lead to universal treatment for various viral infections, including cancer-linked viruses.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 2, 2013

Cold sore linked to mutation in gene, study suggests

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have found a link between cold sore susceptibility and a mutated gene, revealing why some people are more prone to the virus that causes them. The study identifies IL28b as the affected gene, which plays a crucial role in mounting an immune response against the herpes simplex virus.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 16, 2013

Carnegie Mellon biophysicist obtains first experimental evidence of pressure inside the herpes virus

Researchers discovered a high internal pressure within the human herpes simplex virus 1 that enables it to eject its DNA into a host cell's nucleus. This pressure is a key mechanism for viral infection across organisms and presents new opportunities for broad-based, mutation-resistant antiviral treatments.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 24, 2013

How herpesvirus invades nervous system

Researchers at Northwestern University identified a viral protein, VP1/2, that allows herpesvirus to interact with cellular motors and speed through the nervous system. This breakthrough enables the virus to move unobstructed from skin nerves to neuron nuclei, outcompeting most other viruses.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 27, 2013