Research on viral diseases and the response to them. Covers Ebola and mpox, diagnostics, post-viral fatigue, and outbreak control strategies.
Researchers at Virginia Tech discovered genes for cellular metabolic cycles in the genomes of giant viruses, challenging traditional views on viral life. These genes suggest that giant viruses can alter their hosts' metabolism, shifting nutrient balances and influencing aquatic biogeochemistry.
Researchers have developed a chemically modified phage capsid that perfectly fits influenza viruses, preventing them from infecting lung cells. The new approach shows promise for treating seasonal and avian flus.
Researchers suggest that infectious agents may play a role in Alzheimer's disease, challenging the current amyloid hypothesis. Recent studies have linked certain viruses and bacteria to AD pathology, sparking fresh interest in this unorthodox approach.
A study found that fall precipitation is linked to increased curly top disease in New Mexico crops, allowing farmers to predict and manage the disease. The research also shows that good weed control methods can reduce beet leafhopper numbers, leading to improved crop yields.
A Brazilian study found that consuming contaminated water with saxitoxin worsens Zika neurotoxicity, tripling cell mortality and causing microcephaly-like malformations. This research highlights the public health problem of low water quality in the Northeast region, exacerbating the effects of arbovirus diseases.
The disease-causing virus BYDV manipulates its host plant and aphid vector to create warmer regions for feeding, increasing the vector's heat tolerance. This allows certain aphids to thrive in warmer conditions, posing implications for crop health as the global climate warms.
A European research network is funding a study to investigate how biological diversity influences chains of infection for mosquito-borne diseases. The project aims to develop reliable risk assessments and identify the impact of biodiversity, landscape diversity, and socio-economic conditions on disease transmission.
Researchers at Princeton University identified key factors essential for chronic hepatitis B infection. The study found that five human proteins are necessary for the repair process of HBV DNA, and targeting these factors could potentially prevent the infection.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health discovered a cell defense mechanism that uses tiny, protein-coated packages called exosomes to bind to and neutralize bacterial toxins. This 'soaking up' of toxins helps keep cells safe from infection.
Perturbation of gut microbiota by influenza virus promotes secondary bacterial superinfection in mice. Treatment with acetate corrects this sensitivity.
A new study finds that obesity promotes the virulence of the influenza virus by impairing interferon defense responses and allowing for viral diversity. This correlation may explain why yearly influenza vaccines are needed, as obese individuals shed more virus and have delayed antiviral responses.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a mathematical theory that takes into account evolutionary changes in pathogens or information. This theory was tested against thousands of computer-simulated epidemics and found to be more accurate than traditional models.
A new technology developed at Northwestern University offers precise measurements of proteins down to their atoms, enabling better understanding of disease and the design of vaccines. This approach, called individual ion mass spectrometry, can determine the exact mass of a huge range of intact proteins.
Research found fever, cold-like symptoms, and miscarriage threats during pregnancy are associated with congenital CMV infection in newborns. Blood tests may not be effective in predicting the likelihood of congenital CMV infection, highlighting the need for clinical factors to identify at-risk pregnancies.
A team of complexity scientists have developed a 'meme' model for multiple diseases, revealing that interacting contagious diseases follow the same complex spreading patterns as social trends. The study found that even one more contagion can dramatically shift dynamics and trigger macroscopic jumps in epidemic size.
A study estimates that Pakistan needs a significant investment of $3.9 billion to achieve the World Health Organization's target for eliminating Hepatitis C virus (HCV) by 2030. This would involve screening or re-screening 36 million people annually and treating 660,000 each year, with regular follow-ups to identify new infections.
A Zika virus strain in northeastern Brazil was particularly damaging to the developing brain, causing microcephaly in over 80% of cases. Researchers found that this strain led to neurodegeneration and smaller brains, but other factors such as environmental viruses may have also played a role.
Researchers discovered that potato plants are most susceptible to infection during the first three weeks of the growing season, leading to reduced tuber yield and quality. This age-related resistance mechanism suggests that management programs should focus on early stages of potato development to protect crops.
Researchers discover how Ebola virus interacts with human lipids and how disrupting this interaction can inhibit infection in cell culture. Two FDA-approved drugs show promise in blocking virus replication and spread.
Researchers found that the influenza NS1 protein can bind to the cell's RIG-I protein, quelling the alarm that activates the cellular innate immunity defense against infection. This newly described mechanism increases viral survival and highlights the need for better vaccines and antivirals.
Researchers at Colorado State University have discovered how a viral protein regulates genome replication in viruses like West Nile and Zika. The study found that the protein acts as a brake during unwinding, and mutations can affect replication efficiency.
A teenage girl's symptoms improved with treatment, but further testing revealed no evidence of infection, highlighting the potential health risks of vaping. The case report suggests that e-cigarettes may be a plausible cause of subacute epiglottitis, a life-threatening condition.
A phase I clinical trial has confirmed the safety and effectiveness of a monoclonal antibody in neutralizing henipaviruses, which have pandemic potential. The antibody, m102.4, was found to be well-tolerated in healthy volunteers, with no serious adverse events reported.
Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum München developed a novel therapeutic approach to cure chronic hepatitis B infection. By knocking down the expression of the virus' proteins, they enabled successful vaccination with TherVacB, a novel therapeutic vaccine. The therapy aims to cure existing chronic diseases by activating immune cells.
Researchers have identified a potential vaccine to prevent respiratory infections in humans by understanding how the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) hides from the immune system. A mutated form of HMPV was created, which triggers a stronger innate immune response, effectively preventing infection and promoting an adaptive immune response.
US Army scientists develop an experimental antibody cocktail that protects animals from Sudan virus, a closely related to Ebola. The treatment boosts the body's immune system to fight infection and provides protection in rhesus macaques.
A team of international scientists has created a global map of dengue transmission intensity and predicted that releasing infected mosquitoes with Wolbachia could reduce cases by up to 90%. The study also suggests that the Sanofi Pasteur dengue vaccine could reduce cases by up to 30%.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports reveals that Zika virus infection causes damage to astrocytes, leading to oxidative stress, DNA breakage, and permanent mutations. This damage can contribute to brain malformations like microcephaly and potentially other neurological disorders.
Scientists detected Marburg virus in Egyptian rousette fruit bats in Sierra Leone, highlighting the risk of human exposure. The presence of Marburg virus means people living nearby could be at risk for becoming infected without reported cases of illness.
Researchers found that West Nile virus (WNV) inhibits autophagy to induce protein aggregation, leading to cell death and brain inflammation. A drug inducing autophagy can prevent cell death and reduce inflammation.
A skin cream used to treat warts and skin cancer has been found to prevent infection from viral diseases like Zika and dengue when applied after a mosquito bite. The cream works by activating the skin's immune response, preventing the virus from spreading throughout the body.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science devise a new image analysis method that reveals how giant viruses infect amoebae and how the host reacts. The study uses time-lapse microscopy to track changes in cellular behavior, providing new insights into the life cycle of giant viruses and their impact on eukaryotes.
Brazilian scientists led by Rodrigo Ramos Catharino found that Zika virus inhibits tumor cell proliferation in prostate cancer cells, even when inactivated. The study, supported by FAPESP, used a human prostate adenocarcinoma cell line and identified markers of metabolic changes caused by the virus.
A new study reveals genetically engineered mosquitoes that are refractory to all four types of dengue virus, providing a promising approach for controlling the spread of this mosquito-borne disease. The mosquitoes express an anti-DENV gene that prevents them from being infected or transmitting the virus.
UC San Diego researchers identified αvβ5 integrin as the key contributor to Zika virus' ability to infect brain cells. Blocking this integrin with antibodies or small molecule inhibitors effectively prevents Zika virus from infecting both normal brain stem cells and cancer stem cells.
Researchers found that changes in RNA splicing and protein Lark affect the production of messenger RNA, crucial for fighting gut infections. Genetic variants also modulate gene expression levels in response to infection.
The researchers have created a robust cell culture model for the hepatitis E virus, producing approximately 100 times more infectious virus particles than previous models. This allows for extensive studies on the virus and its impact on human liver cells, enabling the identification of key genes involved in the infection.
New research found that after recovery from a respiratory infection, particular cells in the innate immune system in the lung are more effective, offering extra protection against new infections. This heightened immunity is due to the production of cytokines by lung macrophages, which cause inflammation and help fight pathogens.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have developed a decoy molecule called Arenacept that can neutralize a range of viruses, including arenaviruses. The molecule is based on a rodent receptor and has been shown to be highly effective in binding strongly to viruses and recruiting the immune system to mount an attack.
A recent study by University of Oxford researchers has found a strong link between maternal malnutrition and the severity of Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS), a devastating condition caused by Zika virus infection. The study suggests that poor diets, particularly those lacking in protein, can exacerbate the effects of CZS, highlighting t...
Viral mutations can cause influenza viruses to mutate so that they can better latch onto and infect bird cells, making the immune system less effective. Cell-based vaccines offer an alternative using canine kidney cells, which are more similar to humans, increasing their effectiveness.
Researchers found genetic signs of Borna disease virus in brain tissue from patients with unknown cause of encephalitis, indicating a potential link to severe and deadly cases. The study suggests clinicians should test for BoDV-1 more often in patients with rapidly evolving central or peripheral nervous system disorders.
A new study reveals that human noroviruses infect small intestine cells by piggybacking on endocytosis, a normal process used to acquire materials from the environment. Bile acids and ceramide play a crucial role in this process.
Researchers discovered that DHCR7 inhibitors and intermediate cholesterol metabolite 7-DHC promote IFN-I production and an antiviral response by activating AKT3 and IRF3. This may aid in the development of new drugs to treat viral infections.
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology found no evidence linking CD4 T cells to severe dengue hemorrhagic fever. Instead, they discovered a novel T cell response that may help counteract inflammation, suggesting a new direction for developing effective vaccines.
Research finds that exposure to one subtype of flu virus in childhood can grant extra protection against future infections, but not if the second strain is from a different group. This explains why some people fare better than others when infected with the same strain.
A team led by Professor Patrick Labonté identified the role of autophagy in the replication cycle of Hepatitis D virus, which infects only people with hepatitis B. The discovery could lead to a targeted treatment, but raises concerns about long-term effects on cellular function.
An experimental Zika DNA vaccine VRC5283 reduced virus levels and improved fetal outcomes in pregnant rhesus macaques. The results suggest the vaccine may prevent transmission to humans as well.
A newly discovered protein called Mib1 has been identified as key to successful viral DNA uncoating, enabling adenoviruses to infect cells. The protein's presence is necessary for viral infection, and its inhibition could lead to the development of new anti-viral therapies.
A study by Princeton University researchers found that climate change could lead to more frequent and earlier outbreaks of RSV respiratory infection in North America. The virus' spread is influenced by humidity and rainfall, which are expected to shift northward due to changing weather patterns.
In 2018, Salmonella was responsible for nearly one-third of foodborne outbreaks in the European Union, affecting 48,365 people. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the European Food Safety Authority report that these outbreaks were mainly linked to eggs.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have made significant progress in developing a novel Zika virus vaccine that prevents infection in pre-clinical models. The vaccine's effectiveness has been demonstrated in mouse models, offering a promising solution to prevent congenital effects in infants born to infected mothers.
A study by Max Delbrück Center researchers explains that avian influenza A viruses are unable to transform infected human cells into effective virus factories due to a lack of the matrix protein M1. The virus requires this protein to export its genetic material from the cell nucleus, which is necessary for building new viruses.
A study found that glioblastoma patients with a history of Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection had a significantly shorter survival rate, highlighting the potential use of HCMV testing to predict treatment outcomes. The presence of HCMV antibodies was linked to a four-month reduction in life expectancy.
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have elucidated the structure of a key component of respiratory syncytial virus and human metapneumovirus, two closely related viruses causing severe respiratory diseases. The team's findings provide new targets for designing antiviral molecules.
A new study found that an existing antiviral treatment is effective against both the hepatitis C virus and potentially fatal complications such as reduced liver functioning and cirrhosis. The treatment also improves cognitive function, with patients experiencing improved reaction times.
A new study published in the UEG Journal found that young patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at a higher risk of developing severe viral infections. Clinically active IBD and immunomodulators used to treat the condition are identified as main drivers of infection, with thiopurines increasing the risk by six times.
Researchers developed a new tool to predict the global spread of dengue, analyzing travel data and dengue incidence rates. The tool identifies the country of origin for imported cases and forecasts absolute numbers of dengue importations at a global level.
Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä have discovered that host cell calpain proteases can process enterovirus polyprotein in vitro. This finding sheds light on the mechanism behind the inhibitory effect of calpain protease inhibition on enterovirus infection.
Dr. John V. Williams is recognized for his leading research in respiratory virus biology, particularly human metapneumovirus (HMPV), and significant contributions to pediatric science. He has published molecular epidemiology studies establishing the importance of HMPV and developed candidate vaccines and monoclonal antibodies.