Articles tagged with Viral Infections
A Brazilian research team discovered a cellular signaling pathway involved in both the immune response to Zika and neurogenesis, a process of new neuron formation. The study found that peptides from the renin-angiotensin system played a key role in this pathway.
A team of scientists discovered that beneficial viruses can integrate into bacteria carrying restriction-modification systems, which protect them from lethal infections. The study showed that these systems offer a temporary respite, allowing bacterial populations to grow and increasing the chances of acquiring beneficial viruses.
A study published in Science Immunology suggests that Zika virus triggers an immune response that can cause abnormal placental development and restricted fetal growth. Researchers found that the immune system's antiviral proteins, known as type I interferons, can be detrimental to fetal development if present in excess.
Researchers have discovered a way to prevent the Ebola virus from spreading by inhibiting a specific enzyme that allows it to copy itself. By blocking this enzyme, the virus's ability to produce more infection is reduced, suggesting potential breakthrough in treatment.
Researchers found that Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes exhibited reduced dengue virus transmission potential by up to 50% compared to uninfected mosquitoes. Laboratory conditions underestimated this effect, suggesting improved vaccines and disease management approaches are needed.
The Zika pandemic has infected millions of people across over 80 countries, leaving many babies with birth defects. Researchers are working toward treatments and a preventive vaccine, but experts warn that the virus may reemerge more aggressively.
Researchers at University of Utah Health have found a way for cells to destroy viruses without harming themselves. The study reveals how the protein Dicer, which is part of normal cell function, uses a different mechanism to process viral dsRNA.
A new test measures RNA or protein molecules in human cells to identify viral infections, potentially replacing current methods for respiratory viral illnesses. The test was found to predict respiratory viral infection with 97% accuracy and could help diagnose patients more quickly and accurately.
A large cohort study found that 25% of chikungunya-infected individuals experienced chronic joint pain two years after initial infection. The researchers also identified several predictors of persistent joint pain, including being a college graduate and having severe initial symptoms.
Researchers have identified an antibody that can block entry to the host cell, providing a basis for safe and broad-spectrum anti-dengue therapy. The study also revealed the structural basis of the antibody binding to individual dengue viruses, which could help explain why some vaccines may not work.
New research reveals that viruses can transfer genes to organisms from different superkingdoms, including bacteria and complex organisms like plants and animals. This discovery suggests that viruses may have originated from primitive cells and could be a source of new genes for cellular organisms.
Researchers found that Ebola survivors' immune systems may provide some protection against future infection. The study, led by UCLA, located 14 survivors of the 1976 outbreak who still lived in the same remote villages.
Researchers developed a mouse model to study PRV's pathogenesis, virulence, and treatment efficacy. The model showed that the lung was the primary target organ for replication and demonstrated protective effects of antiserum and non-lethal doses.
A study found that lactic acid bacteria can protect against different subtypes of influenza A virus, resulting in reduced weight loss and lower amounts of virus replication in the lungs. The researchers used a heat-killed strain of Lactobacillus casei DK128 to pretreat mice before infecting them with the virus.
A Canadian academic investigated the claim of man flu, suggesting adult men have a higher risk of hospital admission and influenza-associated deaths compared to women. Men also exhibit higher rates of complications and mortality from acute respiratory diseases due to their less robust immune system.
A new animal model has been developed at Texas Biomedical Research Institute to mimic key features of the Zika virus infection, including lingering presence in bodily fluids. The marmoset model is useful for testing new drugs and vaccines, and may help identify places where transmission can be blocked.
Dr Catherine Bell suggests that exposure to Peppa Pig may encourage patients to seek unnecessary medical attention and visits. She analyzes three case studies, highlighting the potential impact of the show on patient behavior and primary care services.
Researchers at Osaka University identify a compound effective against drug-resistant HCV, inhibiting its maturation process. The dibenzoazepine structure is responsible for its effectiveness, allowing for potential modifications to combat other diseases.
A study published in mBio reveals a strong connection between the onset and severity of acute infectious mononucleosis (mono or 'kissing disease') and the T-cell population, specifically those that react to both EBV and influenza A virus. Individuals with severe cases of mono have higher levels of cross-reactive T-cells, while those wi...
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that men infected with one type of HPV are 20 times more likely to be reinfected within a year. Vaccination before sexual contact is crucial in preventing initial infection, while vaccinating previously infected men could also reduce reinfection risk.
New research published in Frontiers in Microbiology finds that higher temperatures and temperature fluctuations accelerate the growth of the dengue virus in mosquitoes, making them more infectious. This could help prevent outbreaks during warm periods by reducing mosquito numbers or controlling exposure.
A decade-long study on hundreds of HPV vaccine recipients found the vaccine to be safe and effective in preventing the most virulent strains of the virus. The quadrivalent vaccine was virtually 100% effective in preventing disease in young individuals.
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a method to shield piglets from the devastating porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus. The technique relies on eliminating the CD163 protein in pregnant sows, which acts as the virus's receptor.
A large study found that testing for fever, high pulse rate, crackly breath sounds, and low oxygen levels could help distinguish pneumonia from less serious infections. The researchers suggest using these four measures to identify patients who need treatment with antibiotics, while reducing unnecessary prescriptions.
Scientists developed an enterovirus vaccine that protects against virus-induced diabetes in a mouse model for Type 1 diabetes. The study suggests the potential role of enteroviruses in human Type 1 diabetes and offers a new preventative treatment option.
A Yale study finds that Zika infection triggers immune cells to attack neurons, causing paralysis and death in mice models lacking antiviral response. Suppressing the immune response might be an approach to treating Guillain-Barré syndrome, a condition affecting some people infected with Zika.
A new study by Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute found that chloroquine, an anti-malarial drug, reduces the transmission of Zika virus from mother to fetus. The research suggests that chloroquine may be effective in treating and preventing Zika infections.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center discovered that some women who develop symptom-free Zika infections may acquire immunity that protects them from future infections and their offspring. This finding suggests the possibility of developing diagnostic tests to identify naturally immune women, which could help pr...
Scientists from the German Center for Infection Research found that the Zika virus has a high seroprevalence rate in Salvador, northeastern Brazil, suggesting that further outbreaks are unlikely. The study linked this finding to increased population immunity and socioeconomic factors such as poverty.
Scientists have identified two biomarkers that accurately predict patient survival in Ebola cases. The study analyzed blood samples from survivors and fatal cases, revealing distinct metabolic responses and immune-related molecules. These findings could improve treatment allocation and patient outcomes.
Prior Zika infection protects against reinfection during pregnancy in mice, according to new research published in PLOS Pathogens. Protective antibodies from previous infection defend against reinfection, reducing Zika RNA levels and fetal risk.
A QUT study has identified social factors such as overseas arrivals, rainwater tanks, and economic status as potential dengue risk factors. The study suggests increasing surveillance and monitoring of travellers arriving in Australia to control the importation and transmission of dengue virus.
A recent study by La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology reveals that dengue immunity can confer protection against Zika virus. Cytotoxic T-cells have been identified as crucial in defending against both viruses, suggesting that vaccines targeting either dengue or Zika could be effective.
Scientists have characterized the infection mechanism of Rift Valley fever virus by inserting an envelope protein into host cell membranes. The study also reveals a shared recognition pocket with other human pathogenic viruses, paving the way for new therapeutic agents.
Researchers developed a high-throughput system to study individual cells infected with a virus, revealing that the antiviral drug is most effective against growing viruses. The study's findings could lead to smarter design of new antiviral drugs by identifying specific factors responsible for different treatment outcomes.
The study reveals that a human protein called TRIM25 acts as an early defense mechanism, recognizing the unique structure of the flu virus and preventing its replication. However, the NS1 protein produced by the flu virus blocks this function, enabling the virus to evade the immune response.
Researchers discovered that a second blood feeding significantly increases the Asian tiger mosquito's ability to transmit Zika viruses, potentially underestimating its role in disease outbreaks. The study found that this 'aggressive biter' mosquito can produce many infectious mosquitoes quickly after additional feedings.
A 10-year study found that West Nile virus victims, including those with mild symptoms or none, showed evidence of brain damage years after the original infection. Brain scans revealed damage or thinning in different parts of the cerebral cortex, as well as degeneration or atrophy in several regions.
Researchers at Texas Biomedical Research Institute tested a new drug for hepatitis B virus infection, which uses RNA interference to reduce surface antigens. The therapy has shown safety and effectiveness in human trials, offering hope for a potential cure.
Researchers found norovirus in healthy Indonesian volunteers with no symptoms, suggesting they are a source of outbreaks. The virus was also detected in recombinant variations, indicating high infection rates among asymptomatic individuals.
A new T-cell therapy approach is being tested to help fight active viral infections in children with severe immune deficiencies. The therapy uses 'viral specific' T-cells that are engineered to target three common and potentially toxic viruses: EBV, CMV, and adenovirus.
A record 1.76 million people with hepatitis C were treated in 2016, but most countries are running out of patients to treat due to low diagnosis rates. Countries must boost diagnosis rates to achieve elimination targets by 2030.
Nine countries are making progress towards eliminating hepatitis C, thanks to innovative approaches and increased funding. Brazil, Egypt, Australia, and Georgia are leading the way with mass screenings, vaccination campaigns, and risk-sharing agreements.
The UK is struggling to find undiagnosed hepatitis C patients due to lack of awareness about deadly virus and new treatment drugs. Experts estimate that at least 100,000 people remain undiagnosed, threatening the country's goal to eliminate the disease by 2030.
Researchers have created artificial codes to regulate viral assembly, outperforming natural codes in efficiency. The new understanding of viral self-assembly codes could lead to breakthroughs in cancer therapy and immunization.
Researchers discovered that Zika virus is transmitted from mother to fetus by infected microglia cells, which later develop into the brain's defense system. The finding suggests a potential therapeutic target for reducing Zika transmission and offers hope for preventing devastating neurological damage.
Scientists have identified a new player in viral infection, revealing how certain long noncoding RNAs can aid viruses in hijacking host cells. The discovery highlights the importance of understanding host-virus interactions to develop effective antiviral strategies.
Researchers discovered a virus-like particle vaccine can prime the immune response and prevent severe respiratory disease caused by RSV vaccine. The study found immunizing mice with RSV fusion proteins before administering the FI-RSV vaccine prevented lung inflammation and eosinophil invasion.
Researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham have solved the last unknown protein structure of HIV-1, which helps understand how the virus infects human cells and assembles progeny viruses. The cytoplasmic tail of gp41 protein plays a crucial role in virus assembly and replication.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have successfully characterized a highly pathogenic avian virus that is both lethal and transmissible in ferrets. The study suggests that this virus strain could become a potential public health threat if it undergoes further mutations, making it resistant to existing treatments.
A multidisciplinary team has developed a novel platform to diagnose infectious diseases at the point-of-care using a smartphone and credit card-sized test kit. The system achieves detection limits comparable to laboratory-based methods in about 30 minutes, enabling rapid diagnosis and improved disease control.
Researchers identified a link between lower levels of defective viral RNA molecules and increased flu severity. The findings suggest that these molecules could serve as a general marker for predicting disease severity in influenza A virus-infected patients.
Scientists found that H7N9 avian flu viruses can spread among ferrets via respiratory droplets and are minimally responsive to commonly used antiviral drugs. The study also shows that these viruses have a high potential for pandemic due to their efficient replication in human airway cells and the lungs of animal models.
Researchers have identified key pathways and mechanisms underlying viruses and infections, opening new avenues for treatment. The studies found that targeting the Hedgehog pathway may reduce severity of flu symptoms and could lead to effective treatments for anthrax infection.
The UMass Amherst TickReport service is expanding its public health mission with a recent NIH grant and collaboration with L2 Diagnostics to study Borrelia miyamotoi, a tick-transmitted bacterium causing infection and disease in the US, Europe, and Asia. Researchers will conduct human testing on people who submitted B. miyamotoi-positi...
A study published in JAMA found a strong association between Zika virus infection and Guillain-Barré syndrome in Puerto Rico. The study identified acute Zika virus infection as a significant risk factor for GBS, highlighting the need for further investigation into the pathophysiology of Zika virus infection.
Researchers have developed a novel reagent to detect rare B cells indicating successful vaccination in veterinary animals. The method will be widely applicable for demonstrating immunity to other veterinary pathogens.
A new meta-analysis shows that procalcitonin reduces relative mortality by 14% and antibiotic side effects by 25% in patients with respiratory infections. This biomarker can help medical experts diagnose infectious diseases and tailor treatment strategies.
Researchers discovered 96 transcription regulatory sequences (TRSs) used by arterivirus Simian hemorrhagic fever virus to produce subgenomic messenger RNAs, exceeding the previously reported nine TRSs. The study found that multiple TRSs are involved in producing structural proteins and alternative reading frames.
After a 10-year absence, Usutu virus has reemerged in both blackbirds and humans, particularly in Austria and Hungary. Genetic analysis reveals that the viruses circulating in these regions are closely related to those found in Italy, demonstrating inter-country transmission of viral strains.