Research on viral diseases and the response to them. Covers Ebola and mpox, diagnostics, post-viral fatigue, and outbreak control strategies.
A new study reveals that a single gene can drive prostate differentiation in seminal vesicle epithelial cells, suggesting potential insights into prostate cancer development. The research found that inducing expression of the Nkx3.1 gene caused seminal vesicle cells to convert into a prostate-like state.
Researchers identified that West Nile virus may cause long-term neurological problems like memory loss by over-activating the immune system in the brain. The study suggests that intervening in this immune response may help prevent brain damage or aid recovery.
West Nile virus causes memory loss and mood disorders by sparking inflammation that prunes synapses, the connections between nerve cells. Researchers have identified potential new treatments for the mosquito-borne illness.
Researchers found that mosquito bites can facilitate viral replication and spread by triggering an inflammatory response in the skin. The study suggests new approaches for combating viruses, including using topical creams to suppress bite inflammation.
The National Institutes of Health has launched a multi-country study to investigate the health risks associated with Zika virus infection during pregnancy. The study aims to enroll up to 10,000 pregnant women across several locations affected by Zika outbreaks, followed throughout their pregnancies and into early childhood.
Researchers found that mosquito bites enhance the replication of viral infections like Zika and dengue by triggering an inflammatory response in the body. Anti-inflammatory medications may be effective in stopping this process and preventing severe illness.
The Zika virus outbreak has highlighted the need for new paradigms in child health, requiring mobilization by pediatricians and healthcare providers to address the growing number of cases. The article suggests revisiting the response to HIV/AIDS 30 years ago to inform a new approach.
Researchers have developed a method using tiny alpaca-derived nanobodies to identify and target specific proteins involved in viral infections. By using these molecules to perturb cellular processes, scientists can tease apart the roles individual proteins play in disease, leading to potential new treatments for infectious diseases.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have discovered that the Rift Valley fever virus uses the Wnt signaling pathway to hijack host machinery and cause infection. This mechanism offers a promising new target for developing therapeutics against this deadly virus, which can cause fatal hepatitis and hemorrhagic fever.
Researchers found that mosquito saliva increases endothelial permeability, enhances immune cell migration, and promotes the spread of dengue virus during antibody-dependent enhancement. This study suggests a critical role of mosquito saliva in exacerbating dengue disease severity.
Zika virus is likely transmitted through blood transfusions, prompting calls for evidence-based approach to protect the blood supply. Researchers recommend deferring donors with symptoms, developing better screening tests, and reducing pathogen transmission.
A virus has been found to use a 'stolen' CRISPR system to hijack its host's immune response, allowing it to fight off other viral infections. The Cyanophage N1 virus uses a CRISPR sequence typically used by bacteria to defend against viruses.
Researchers from Umeå University warn that parts of Southern Europe are at risk for Zika outbreaks between June and August. The study found that the presence of established Aedes-mosquito populations, warmer temperatures, and peak air traveler flows make Southern Europe a fertile ground for Zika transmission.
New research suggests that sexual transmission of Ebola could have a major impact on the dynamics of the disease. The study found that even small and short outbreaks with sexual transmission were larger and longer-lasting than those without it.
Researchers found that Zika virus infects about 20% of brain progenitor cells, which can become neurons, and continues to replicate for weeks without stimulating an immune response. The study provides insights into the severe neurological effects caused by Zika, such as microcephaly and impaired growth in infants.
Researchers predict a low risk of dengue infection among foreign visitors to the Rio Olympics, with estimates suggesting as few as three symptomatic cases and potentially no asymptomatic infections at all. The predictions are based on sophisticated mathematical modeling techniques and data from Brazil's Health Ministry.
A new study found that viral infections during pregnancy can lead to abnormal fetal brain development, increasing the risk of conditions like autism and schizophrenia. By manipulating serotonin levels, researchers were able to normalize fetal forebrain development and reduce this risk.
Researchers found that human activities drive disease distributions at local scales for diseases like West Nile virus and Lyme disease, while climate change impacts regional scales. The study highlights the importance of considering multiple spatial scales to understand human ecological impacts on biodiversity and disease emergence.
Researchers identified a type of skin cell as the target of the virus in humans and found that an FDA-approved drug can block viral infection. The study establishes a new way to investigate this type of oncogenic viral infection and provides hope for better treatments.
A new tool by Japanese researchers predicts the risk of Zika virus importation and local transmission for 189 countries, identifying subtropical and tropical nations as high-risk. Countries with a history of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases face the greatest risk of infection.
Researchers found that Zika virus can infect human placental macrophages, known as Hofbauer cells, which have direct access to fetal blood vessels. This infection may allow the virus to cross the placental barrier and enter the fetal circulation, posing a risk to fetal development.
A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology identified risk factors for ophthalmoscopic findings in infants born with microcephaly and presumed Zika virus infection. Infants with smaller head diameters at birth and those whose mothers reported symptoms during the first trimester were more likely to have ocular involvement.
A dengue vaccine has the potential to substantially reduce disease burden if it induces long-lasting immunity. Researchers found that a durable vaccine, with booster doses, can reduce annual dengue incidence by up to 80% within five years.
A new study has found that the Zika virus is linked to a range of eye problems in Brazilian babies born with microcephaly. The researchers observed retinal lesions, hemorrhaging, and abnormal blood vessel development in three infants, which could result in severe visual impairment if left untreated.
Researchers at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center are working to develop a vaccine for the Zika virus, using their experience with West Nile virus. They aim to identify specific parts of the virus that can be targeted by the immune system, and have received $230,000 in NIH funding for their research.
A team of scientists analyzed multiple studies on three well-known viral families to understand how viruses evolve and increase their genetic diversity. They found that segmented RNA viruses can replicate with a single parental line, but reassortment between viruses is limited by physical and molecular constraints.
A new tool helps guide resource allocation for Zika virus interventions by analyzing health impact and costs. The tool suggests that proposed funds to combat Zika in the US and other countries would be cost-effective, particularly for measures reducing Zika infections.
Scientists have successfully obtained a high-resolution image of the Zika virus helicase, a key target for antiviral development. The structural information will help researchers design and develop effective small-molecule inhibitors to stop viral replication and prevent disease.
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have developed a strategy to create the first broad-spectrum antiviral drug, which could provide protection against seven deadly viruses, including Nipah and Ebola. By targeting a single gene, the approach boosts immunity against viral infections.
A simple paper sheet can remove resistant viruses from water, improving access to safe drinking water for millions. The mille-feuille filter uses cellulose nanofibers and has a unique layered internal architecture.
Researchers found that a mutation in the protein shell of the John Cunningham polyomavirus can affect the immune system's response to the infection, leading to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. This discovery may help prevent the disease in autoimmune patients on immunosuppressant therapies.
Researchers have identified an experimental antiviral drug that slows down Zika virus development in mice. The study suggests the drug may provide protection against Zika-induced symptoms and microcephaly in pregnant women.
Researchers genetically engineered a Zika virus infectious cDNA clone, enabling rapid vaccine development and exploration of the virus's evolution and transmission. The study unlocks insights into why the Zika virus causes severe diseases and epidemics.
A review article by J. David Beckham highlights Zika virus's impact on global health, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to develop a viable vaccine and treatment options. The article notes that exposure avoidance through insect repellent and protective measures is currently the best approach to prevent complications.
Researchers identified two existing compounds effective against the Chikungunya virus in an animal model, bringing a potential treatment within reach. The findings also suggest that these compounds may be useful for broadly acting antivirals against emerging viruses.
Researchers at Umea University have discovered that mosquito larvae in the Västerbotten region carry viruses that can cause infectious disease, including Sindbis virus and Inkoo virus. These findings indicate that the viruses can be transferred from female mosquitoes to their eggs.
Researchers have developed mouse models of Zika infection in pregnancy, revealing that the virus causes significant damage to the placenta and leads to fetal demise or stunted growth. High levels of viral genetic material were found in placentas, highlighting the importance of understanding how Zika affects pregnant women.
Researchers developed mouse models to study Zika virus infection during pregnancy, revealing fetal brain damage and potential for long-term neurological problems. The studies also showed the importance of understanding how the virus latches onto the placenta to prevent transmission.
Researchers in China report that fetal mice infected with the Asian Zika virus strain display characteristic features of microcephaly. The study found that neural progenitor cells were initially infected, followed by neurons, and that almost all cell death occurred in neurons, not progenitor cells.
Researchers have provided direct experimental proof that the Brazilian Zika virus strain can cause severe birth defects, including microcephaly and neurological diseases. The study used mouse models, human stem cells, and cerebral organoids to demonstrate the causal effect of the Brazilian virus on health.
Researchers have established mouse models of Zika virus transmission from a pregnant mouse to her fetus, demonstrating viral invasion and damage to the placenta. The studies reveal that Zika virus can cause congenital problems, including fetal death, by breaching the placental barrier.
The Brazilian Zika virus strain causes significant damage to mouse fetuses, leading to cell death and impaired growth. In vitro experiments confirm the virus's lethal effects on human nervous system cells, mirroring the development of congenital malformations like microcephaly.
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that excessive alcohol use can accelerate liver damage in people living with hepatitis C. The research suggests that comprehensive approaches to care are needed for these patients, including increased diagnosis and effective interventions to reduce alcohol use.
Researchers at Harvard University developed a rapid and portable test for Zika virus that can detect the virus in serum or saliva samples at lower concentrations than previously possible. The test has the potential to improve upon key limitations of currently available options and enable mass monitoring of outbreaks.
Researchers have discovered how Zika virus blunts brain development by hijacking the human immune system. The study found that activating a specific protein called TLR3 triggers genes that block stem cell differentiation and lead to increased cell suicide.
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases describes a suitable small animal model for testing ZIKV interventions. The A129 mouse model accumulates virus in the brain and other tissues, exhibiting symptoms similar to those in humans.
A study by Helmholtz Munich researchers found that viral respiratory tract disorders during the first six months of life significantly increase the risk of children developing type 1 diabetes. The infection localization and timing were key factors in determining the increased risk.
A new USC study has found that mother's hepatitis B can support chronic infection in children, leading to a potential cure. The research, published in Immunity journal, suggests that removing 'traitor' cells from the liver's immune system may be key to clearing the virus.
A study suggests that current vaccines provide only partial protection against the G5 strain of Japanese encephalitis virus, and natural infection with a different strain may not offer protection. The findings indicate that an emerging crisis in South-East Asia is possible, warranting further research on vaccines.
A study of 295,420 infants in Bavaria found increased T1D risk associated with respiratory tract infections between 2-9 months and 3-5.9 months of age. Early exposure to viral infections may impair immune system response, suggesting a crucial first half-year of life for autoimmunity development.
Researchers found swollen posterior cervical or axillary lymph nodes, fatigue, and enlarged spleen to be effective predictors of mono. Persistent symptoms lasting three to four weeks also characterize the illness, according to Dr. Mark Ebell.
Genomic analysis of Ebola virus samples from Liberia in June 2015 indicates a re-emergence of a persistently infected source, highlighting the risk of disease flare-ups even after an outbreak is declared over. The study's findings suggest that the virus replicates at a lower rate during persistent infections.
Researchers found that topoisomerase 1 inhibitors suppress inflammation in mice, potentially treating sepsis and other immune disorders. These drugs have shown promise in rescuing mice from a lethal inflammatory response caused by bacterial infections, suggesting a new approach to controlling acute infections.
A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens identifies a host gene involved in the formation of Hepatitis C virus particles. The gene, ABHD5, regulates the efficiency of virus assembly and release from human host cells. High levels of ABHD5 expression lead to fewer lipid droplets, while lower levels result in their accumulation.
The study details the transmission of Zika virus through mosquitoes and human-to-human contact, as well as its association with neurological disorders and birth defects. Researchers emphasize the need for antiviral agents and vaccines to combat the outbreak.
New research confirms Zika virus was present in Haiti and possibly earlier, contradicting early theories on its spread in the Americas. The discovery sheds light on the virus's history and suggests a more complex spread than initially thought.
Scientists at TGen tracked the likely origins and dispersal of Valley Fever using genomic analysis technologies, revealing a history spanning 2 million years. The study identifies two distinct species of the fungus Coccidioides and estimates their divergence dates, providing insights into future outbreak tracking.
Brain-region-specific organoids were used to model Zika virus exposure, showing the virus prefers to infect neural stem cells and causing cell death. The technology has potential as a preclinical testing ground for therapies against Zika.
Research at the University of Bristol reveals that plant viruses can alter leaf surface properties to attract insects like greenfly. Infected leaves reflect less polarized light, making them more visible to bugs.
Research finds that infants develop strong antibody responses to RSV F and G proteins after infection, while adult immunity weakens over time. The study suggests that future vaccines should include G proteins to boost anti-G responses.