Articles tagged with Viral Infections
A study published in the American Journal of Medical Genetics describes the physical and neurologic characteristics of congenital Zika syndrome in 83 Brazilian children. The findings show that microcephaly, joint immobility, and brain abnormalities are common features, with some cases having milder symptoms.
Researchers found that most dengue virus infections occur within neighborhoods and are transmitted by the same family of mosquitoes. The study suggests that large urban centers can spread dengue diversity, which can be dispersed to other areas.
Researchers found that inhibiting Toll-like receptor 4 activation can silence Ebola virus-infected macrophages, a potential treatment option. The study also suggests this approach could work for other hemorrhagic fever viruses.
Tom Hobman's lab has been awarded $500,000 to investigate how the Zika virus changes host cells during infection and develop antiviral therapies. The team aims to understand the virus's persistence in the body and potentially block it to prevent transmission.
New research examines the impact of Ebola virus proteins packaged in exosomes on the immune system, impairing its ability to fight off the infection. The study highlights the potential for exosomal VP40 to have a substantial impact on Ebola virus disease.
A Georgia State University researcher has received a five-year grant to develop a new drug targeting the Ebola virus. The goal is to find compounds that block the growth of Ebola virus by inhibiting its viral machinery.
A new strain of ranivirus is causing mass mortality in amphibian populations in Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Portugal. The virus also affects fish and reptiles, complicating the situation and requiring urgent optimization of conservation strategies.
A recent study found that pre-existing immunity to dengue virus modulates the magnitude and breadth of the immune system's T cell response to Zika. This shape the subsequent CD8+ T cell response to Zika in mice, with implications for vaccine development.
A novel vaccine developed by scientists at NIAID protected cattle from respiratory syncytial virus infection, with high levels of neutralizing antibodies and protection against viral replication. The vaccine's pre-F protein construct showed promise in a model that may be applied to human RSV vaccine development.
A Rutgers study found that doctors who schedule flu shots for patients are three times more likely to get vaccinated. Patients are more receptive when their physicians take a proactive stance, increasing vaccination rates.
Researchers discovered a molecular signaling receptor, type I Interferon receptor (IFNAR), that fuels production of pro-inflammatory cytokines during secondary inflammatory challenge, inducing preterm birth. Testing in mouse models and human tissues found that genetic deletion or inhibition of IFNAR prevents preterm birth.
A small case report suggests that Zika-linked birth defects may only be 'tip of the iceberg' when it comes to cardiovascular complications. Eight of nine patients developed dangerous arrhythmias and six experienced heart failure, with symptoms manifesting on average 10 days after initial complaints.
A study published in the Public Library of Science Pathogens found that Zika virus targets neuronal, lymph, joint, muscle and genital/urinary/reproductive tissues, persisting for at least 35 days. The research provides insights into the growth and distribution of the virus in human tissues.
Scientists have identified a previously unknown virus affecting parasitoid wasp species, reducing female offspring and extending lifespan. The discovery has implications for understanding viral transmission in insects.
Researchers studied 19 virus families and found that cross-species transmission has played a central role in their evolution. Co-divergence is relatively rare compared to cross-species jumps.
A recent study found that only a small percentage of baby boomers have been tested for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, despite the availability of treatments. The study suggests that increased awareness and innovative strategies, such as state-mandated testing, are needed to improve HCV testing rates among this demographic.
A mouse study found that suppressed immunity during pregnancy creates a window of opportunity for the H1N1 influenza virus to infect and mutate into more virulent strains. The researchers believe that pregnant women are more susceptible to severe flu infections due to their dampened immune system.
A new study found that Zika virus was as commonly confirmed as dengue in Canadian travellers returning from the Americas and Caribbean, but more severe. The study revealed 10% of cases with severe complications, including Guillain-Barré syndrome and congenital infection.
Researchers have discovered a unique protein in the Orsay virus, a nematode worm virus, that plays a crucial role in binding to cells and infecting them. The protein's molecular structure has potential antiviral applications, and its study could guide bioengineers in developing synthetic variations of the virus to target parasitic worms.
Researchers at Penn State are investigating the collection of viruses, known as the virome, in white-footed mice and black-legged ticks to better predict infectious disease outbreaks in humans. The team aims to identify new infectious viruses in these animals before they spill over into humans.
A new article published online by JAMA Dermatology estimates the global burden of skin disease, with dermatitis and acne vulgaris ranking among top causes. Skin diseases accounted for 1.79% of the global burden of disease in 2013, equivalent to 41.6 million DALYS.
A study published in JAMA Dermatology ranks the top 10 most disabling skin diseases globally, with dermatitis and acne at the top. The research also highlights the disproportionate impact of non-cancer skin conditions on global health.
Researchers found Zika virus alters host cell cytoskeletal architecture to build replication factories, potentially targeting with existing chemotherapy drugs. This study suggests a new approach to treating Zika-related disorders like microcephaly and neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers have determined the atomic structure of African swine fever virus enzyme AsfvPolX, revealing a unique binding pocket and high error rate. This could lead to the development of targeted treatments by blocking the binding pocket with drugs.
Researchers at Cardiff University discovered a genetic link between Ifitm3 and the immune system's inflammatory response. The study found that individuals with a specific gene variant may experience an overactive immune response to viral infections, making anti-inflammatory drugs a potential treatment option.
A combination of two cancer drugs has been found to inhibit both dengue and Ebola virus infections in mice, with efficacy also shown against West Nile and Zika viruses. The study identified a molecular mechanism by which the drugs disrupt RNA viruses' genetic material.
A new study aims to improve detection of viral pathogens in water resources by developing more accurate DNA sequencing methods. The research has the potential to enhance public health and safety, particularly in areas where conventional methods are limited due to viral diversity.
Researchers from Vanderbilt University have identified specific genes that make Wolbachia, a parasitic bacterium, effective in controlling mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika. The 'super-Wolbachia' gene can be used to genetically engineer insects to spread the bacteria more rapidly.
Researchers developed a forecasting model to predict WNV outbreaks, generating accurate forecasts for mosquito infection rates and human cases up to nine weeks prior. This method could give public health officials more time to plan for mosquito control efforts, potentially reducing the number of cases and deaths.
Scientists have produced gene-edited pigs with a modified CD163 gene, showing complete resistance to infection with both major subtypes of the Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome virus. The change is introduced using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and should not affect their ability to fight off other infections.
Scientists have developed a new mouse model with a healthy immune system to study the Zika virus. The model allows researchers to investigate the immune response to Zika, which could lead to advances in vaccine development and treatment strategies.
Duke researchers have identified a group of proteins detected in specific quantities in the mucous, which are 86 percent accurate in confirming the infection is from a cold or flu virus. The discovery aims to develop a quick, noninvasive test to determine the cause of upper respiratory illness and appropriate treatment.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System found that asthma drugs Accolate and Singulair may prevent severe pneumonia by blocking the infection of alveolar air sacs. Early treatment with these drugs could potentially reduce mortality rates from influenza pneumonia, which can be deadly.
The first Iberian lynx infected with the pseudorabies virus has been identified, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. The study found that the virus can have a negative impact on wild Iberian lynxes under threat of extinction, and researchers suggest vaccination as a potential strategy.
A new mouse model reveals that the Zika virus can cross the placenta and lead to high percentages of miscarriages and thin brain tissue in babies. The study's findings suggest a mechanism by which the virus may be evading antiviral proteins, highlighting potential targets for treatment or vaccine development.
A new study investigated the potential role of North American animals as hosts for Zika virus. Researchers tested common animal species, including goats, pigeons, raccoons, and ducks, for infectious virus presence and antibodies. The findings suggest that these animals may serve as an unseen reservoir for Zika virus in urban environments.
A recent study found that using a rabbit virus, myxoma virus, reduced tumor burden in preclinical studies and led to complete eradication of disease in a quarter of animals. The treatment elicited a strong immune response, suggesting its potential as a novel therapy for multiple myeloma.
The NIH is conducting a Phase 1 clinical trial to test an investigational vaccine called AGS-v, designed to trigger an immune response to mosquito saliva. The goal is to provide broad protection against mosquito-transmitted diseases such as Zika, malaria, and dengue fever.
A new model developed by Georgia Tech professor Eva Lee recommends response strategies for infectious diseases like Zika, with a focus on early intervention and containment methods. The model suggests that 20% compliance rate can reduce total infections by half in Brazil during the Zika outbreak.
Researchers have successfully protected mice against Zika by injecting synthetic messenger RNA that encodes for virus proteins into the animals. The vaccine triggers an immune response and prevents viral replication in 95% of the mice.
Researchers at UTMB have discovered that the Asian lineage of the Zika virus halts brain stem cell proliferation and hinders their ability to develop into brain nerve cells. This finding provides insight into the mechanisms behind Zika-induced microcephaly, a serious birth defect characterized by small brain and head development.
Researchers discovered a single mutation, T198F, that increases accessibility of a hidden protein region to antibodies, reducing West Nile virus infectivity and disease severity. This finding may pave the way for new vaccines and antiviral drugs.
A mouse study has identified granzyme A as a protein that promotes arthritic inflammation after chikungunya virus infection. The study suggests that granzyme A could serve as a potential target for new drugs to treat chikungunya-related arthritis in humans.
Researchers at the University of Kent have found that Ebolaviruses require fewer than five mutations to adapt to new host species, including rodents. This finding highlights the potential for these viruses to spread beyond their natural range and increase the risk to humans.
A previously unknown mechanism involved in the immune response has been identified, which could provide an alternative therapy target for lupus patients. Oxidative stress in cells triggers the clustering of a protein that normally signals an immune system pathway during viral infections.
Scientists have developed a new system to aid identification of potential drug targets and treatments for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The system uses genetic engineering techniques to quickly test the effects of chemicals on viral growth, identifying compounds that can block HPV replication.
A recent study published in Immunity reveals how killer cells coordinate with dendritic cells to create an army of immune cells. The research, conducted by the University of Bonn, found that killer cells form a team and trigger chemical signals to recruit other cell types, leading to a coordinated and strong immune response.
Researchers discovered that human umbilical endothelial cells are more susceptible to Zika infection, allowing it to access the fetal bloodstream. The virus uses a cell surface molecule called AXL to exploit a secret passage, enabling it to cause birth defects such as microcephaly and eye damage.
Researchers developed a new scale to predict patient outcomes, finding that malaria co-infection, age extremes, and delayed healthcare seeking behavior are key predictors of mortality. The scoring system achieved high accuracy rates of 91% at triage and 97% after triage.
A novel mRNA vaccine has shown promise in protecting mice and monkeys against Zika virus infection. The vaccine, which uses messenger RNA to produce Zika virus proteins, was found to be highly effective in preventing the virus in both animal models.
Researchers investigated using two approved autoimmune drugs to reduce joint swelling in mice infected with Chikungunya virus, a mosquito-borne illness with no known therapies. Fingolimid and Abatacept showed promise in stopping T cell trafficking and inflammation, potentially paving the way for new treatments.
A combination of a rheumatoid arthritis drug and an antiviral targeting the chikungunya virus eliminates signs of arthritis in mice at its earliest stage. The treatment shows promise for patients with no existing treatment options, with further studies planned to investigate human efficacy.
Researchers found a peptide called STAT6-IP can reduce inflammation and 'twitchy' airways in mice infected with RSV. The treatment, administered at neonatal stage, significantly reduced asthma-like responses upon adult re-infection.
A team at Rockefeller University has discovered an antibody signature that may increase the risk of severe secondary dengue infections. The study found that patients with more serious disease have high levels of antibodies whose Fc regions lack a particular sugar, which strongly activate immune cells and lead to bleeding disorders.
Enteroviruses cause millions of infections worldwide, with infant fatality rates approaching 20 percent. A new study uses a miniature gut model to reveal how these viruses enter the intestine, targeting specific cells and facilitating bloodstream entry.
A recent study has provided the first details of how enteroviruses, which cause millions of infections worldwide annually, may enter the body through the intestine. The researchers used a mini-gut model to demonstrate that echovirus 11 induced significant damage to intestinal cells, facilitating passage into the bloodstream.
A recent surge of human A(H7N9) cases in China has raised concerns among EU citizens, particularly those living or visiting affected areas. People traveling to China are advised to avoid direct exposure to poultry and live markets, while those presenting with respiratory symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
Research highlights the role of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in regulating immune responses to viral infections. These cells have been shown to directly alter the viral infectious process, posing challenges for developing antiviral therapies.
Researchers at MIT have developed sensors that can detect single protein molecules, enabling the tracking of viral infection, monitoring cellular manufacturing of proteins, and revealing food contamination. The sensors utilize chemically modified carbon nanotubes coated with DNA aptamers, which can bind to specific target proteins.
Researchers discovered a reduction in brain tissue and increased fluid accumulation in the upper brain of Zika-infected fetuses. The study, which included 7 cases, found a significant difference in total brain volume and intracranial volume between Zika-exposed fetuses and healthy controls.