International team discovers the ancient origins of deadly Lassa virus
The discovery sheds light on how the virus evolved and spread across West Africa, revealing that most cases are caused by spillover infections from wild rodents to humans.
Viral Infections
Articles tagged with Viral Infections
NIH-developed Epstein-Barr virus vaccine elicits potent neutralizing antibodies in animals
Researchers developed an EBV vaccine using nanoparticles that induce potent neutralizing antibodies in mice and nonhuman primates. This approach is promising for developing an effective EBV vaccine for humans.
Could flu someday be prevented without a vaccine?
Researchers have discovered a way to trigger a preventive response to flu infections by boosting the level of IFITM3 protein in cells, preventing cell infection. The method involves inhibiting NEDD4 enzyme, which degrades IFITM3, allowing for sustained production and enhanced resistance to flu viruses.
Vaccine protects against Ebola when administered 7 days ahead
A preclinical study found that a new Ebola vaccine, VSV-EBOV, provides complete protection against the disease when given 7 days before infection in macaques. The vaccine also induces a strong innate immune response, helping to limit virus replication and eventually clearing the virus.
The Lancet: Internet program to encourage handwashing reduces spread of cold and flu viruses
A web-based programme to encourage frequent handwashing reduces respiratory tract infections in UK households, with a 14% risk reduction and lower demand for consultations and antibiotic prescriptions. The study suggests PRIMIT could play an important role in reducing flu spread and strain on NHS services during winter months.
Urban ERs see high rates of hepatitis C infection
A study found that 10.3% of patients tested positive for HCV, with 70% confirmed as chronically infected, while only 24% had prior knowledge of the infection. Hepatitis C is a leading cause of end-stage liver disease and liver cancer.
Single dose Ebola vaccine is safe and effective in monkeys against outbreak strain
A single dose of the experimental Ebola virus (EBOV) vaccine VSV-EBOV has been shown to completely protect cynomolgus macaques against the current EBOV outbreak strain, EBOV-Makona. The vaccine triggers both innate and adaptive immunity, providing partial protection if given three days prior to exposure.
Brain infection study reveals how disease spreads from gut
Researchers at University of Edinburgh's Roslin Institute discovered that prions build up in Peyer's patches before spreading to the brain. This finding could enable earlier detection and treatment of prion diseases, including variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and bovine spongiform encephalopathy.
New approach for making vaccines for deadly diseases
Researchers have devised a new approach to vaccines that creates immunity without standard approaches, offering a rapid solution to deadly diseases like dengue fever. The DMAb platform produces antibodies that do not bind to cell receptors, eliminating the chance for infection and disease.
Researchers provide new details about sea stars' immunity
A University of Texas at Arlington study reveals that sea stars have an immune response characterized by various types of immunities, including the first melanin gene ever recorded in a sea star. The team also found changes in genes related to collagen and nervous system function, which may contribute to the disease's effects.
Why West Nile virus is more dangerous in the elderly
A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that older individuals are more susceptible to West Nile virus due to impaired immune responses. The researchers discovered that older mice had delayed antibody responses, reduced helper T cells, and lower chemokine levels, leading to higher viral loads and increased brain damage.
Antiviral compound protects nonhuman primates against Marburg virus
A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine reports that an experimental compound, AVI-7288, protected nonhuman primates against the deadly Marburg virus. The compound showed efficacy even when administered after exposure to the virus. Phase I clinical trial results also indicated safety and tolerability.
Soybean meal positively affects pigs with PRRSV
Researchers found that feeding high concentrations of soybean meal improved growth and immune response in pigs infected with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). The study suggests that isoflavones in soybean meal may have antiviral properties, helping to alleviate the effects of PRRSV.
Burden of dengue, chikungunya in India far worse than understood
A new study found that nearly all people in Chennai, India have been exposed to dengue and 44% to chikungunya, but only a small percentage report symptoms. The research highlights the need for better awareness and control measures to combat these mosquito-borne diseases.
Oxford Ebola vaccine study moves to next phase
The Oxford Vaccine Group is conducting a Phase II study of an Ebola vaccine regimen, recruiting over 600 healthy adult volunteers in the UK and France. The study aims to assess the safety and immunogenicity of the vaccine, as well as determine the best timing for each dose.
Researchers develop aerosolized vaccine that protects primates against Ebola
A collaborative team from UTMB and NIH develop an inhalable vaccine that protects primates against Ebola. The aerosol delivery method has shown promising results, with a single vaccination providing protection against the severe disease and death caused by lethal Ebola infection.
Cells help viruses during cell entry
Researchers found that adenoviruses use ceramide lipids to trigger an infection by creating small pores in the cell membrane. The virus then multiplies in the nucleus and infects other cells. This discovery could lead to new anti-viral agents for gene therapy and vaccination.
Vanderbilt researchers develop antibodies to fight chikungunya virus
Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers have developed a large panel of antibody treatments against chikungunya, a flu-like illness with debilitating joint pain. The antibodies can be used to treat infected individuals early in the infection, potentially preventing severe symptoms.
NIH-funded vaccine for West Nile Virus enters human clinical trials
A new investigational vaccine designed to protect against West Nile Virus infection is being tested in a Phase 1 clinical trial. The vaccine was developed with a novel, hydrogen peroxide-based process that renders the virus inactive while maintaining key immune-system triggering surface structures.
Study explains how dengue virus adapts as it travels, increasing chances for outbreaks
Researchers discovered that dengue virus adapts by interacting with host RNA and proteins, allowing it to bypass the immune response. This finding explains the 1994 Puerto Rico epidemic and may help predict future outbreaks.
Vanderbilt research could lead to vaccines and treatment for dengue virus
Researchers have determined the structure of a human monoclonal antibody that strongly neutralizes a type of the potentially lethal dengue virus in an animal model. This finding could lead to effective therapies and vaccines against dengue, a complex of four distinct mosquito-borne viruses causing illness and death in the tropics.
Mosquito-borne viruses subject of $4 million in federal grants to Pitt vaccine researchers
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh Center for Vaccine Research are developing vaccines and therapies against deadly mosquito-borne diseases, including eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) and alphavirus. The research aims to limit brain entry by these viruses and identify biological markers of disease severity.
Rope-chewing technique an easy way to screen monkeys for disease
A new method is being used to screen primates in remote locations without invasive sampling techniques. Saliva from discarded ropes is collected and tested for viral diseases, providing valuable information on zoonotic pathogens.
Found: Antibody that zaps resilient dengue serotype
A team led by Associate Professor Shee-Mei Lok at Duke-NUS Medical School discovered an antibody that neutralizes dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV-2), making it harder to kill. The finding could help develop dengue therapeutics and is a significant step towards addressing the global dengue pandemic.
Avian flu: $1.35 million grant to fund effort to better predict deadly outbreaks
A $1.35 million grant will fund research on predicting deadly avian flu outbreaks by understanding the influenza virus's transmission from birds to humans. The team, led by Lukas Tamm of the University of Virginia School of Medicine, aims to develop a new tool for predicting outbreak risk based on viral envelope changes.
Hantaviruses are highly dependent on cell membrane cholesterol to infect humans
Researchers found that hantaviruses are highly dependent on cholesterol in cell membranes to gain access into cells. Disrupting the S1P pathway reduced their ability to infect cells, suggesting potential therapeutic targets. However, further studies are needed to fully understand the viruses' dependence on cholesterol.
TSRI and biotech partners find new antibody weapons against Marburg virus
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute identify new immune molecules that protect against deadly Marburg virus, a relative of Ebola virus. The study provides ingredients needed to develop treatments for future Marburg outbreaks.
A single mutation helped last year's flu virus gain an advantage over the vaccine
A single mutation in the H3N2 virus helped it evade the immune system's defenses, making last year's flu vaccine less effective. Researchers have identified this mutation as a key factor in the mismatch between the vaccine strain and circulating strains.
Wistar scientists pinpoint mutations responsible for ineffective 2014-2015 flu vaccine
Researchers at The Wistar Institute identified specific mutations in H3N2 viruses that made the 2014-2015 flu vaccine less effective. Antigenic drift, a phenomenon where viruses accumulate mutations to evade immune response, was found to be a key factor.
AASLD updates guidance for use of hepatitis C drugs
The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) has updated its guidance on testing, managing, and treating hepatitis C virus (HCV). The new recommendations focus on direct-acting antiviral drugs, which have shown high efficacy in curing HCV. With these updates, millions of Americans living with chronic HCV may now hav...
Generic heart disease medications offer promise for Ebola treatment
Researchers report that statins and angiotensin receptor blockers, commonly used for heart disease, can stabilize endothelial cells lining blood vessels in Ebola patients. This approach may improve survival rates in infected individuals by bolstering the immune system.
Shining a stochastic spotlight on Ebola
Engineers at Lehigh University are developing stochastic models to study the dynamics of Ebola virus infection in bats and its potential human transmission. The goal is to quantify the risk associated with the virus's spread and provide a basis for resource allocation and epidemic response strategies.
The presence of roseola virus in chromosomes triples the risk of angina
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that people with roseola virus DNA in their chromosomes are three times more likely to suffer from angina. The virus's genetic material can be transmitted like human genes, and its presence may lead to premature aging and inflammation.
A viral protein that helps EBV-infected B cells to escape human killer T cells
Researchers found that EBV-infected B cells evade immune system using the viral protein LMP2A. The protein interferes with recognition by CD8+ T cells, allowing infected cells to escape detection and elimination.
West African Ebola virus strain less virulent than prototype 1976 strain
A new study by NIH researchers compares the Makona strain of Ebola virus to the original 1976 Mayinga strain, revealing a decreased ability to cause disease in West Africa, with liver damage and rash appearing two days later than in the 1976 strain.
Your complete viral history revealed by VirScan
Researchers developed a new technology called VirScan to identify all viruses an individual has been exposed to over their life. The study found that people are exposed to around 10 viral species on average, but some individuals encountered up to 84 different viral species.
Schiff receives NIH Pioneer Award
Dr. Steven Schiff aims to reduce infant mortality from neonatal sepsis by identifying infection causes and developing predictive models for optimal antimicrobial treatment. His research seeks to apply engineering control principles to prevent infections, with potential applications worldwide.
Researchers discover two new groups of viruses
Scientists at the University of Bonn discovered two new groups of viruses, Jonchet and Ferak, which are believed to have originated from insect viruses. The researchers found that these viruses are phylogenetically independent and do not multiply above 32 degrees Celsius, making human infection unlikely.
Drug prevents passage of HBV during pregnancy
A prospective study found that telbivudine prevented perinatal transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in pregnant women with high viral loads. The study showed a significant reduction in HBV transmission in infants whose mothers received telbivudine, with almost no positive tests after six months.
Study identifies Ebola virus's Achilles' heel
Scientists discovered the molecular lock of Ebola virus's cellular entry, which could lead to the development of antiviral drugs blocking its interaction with Niemann-Pick C1. The study found mice lacking NPC1 gene were completely resistant to infection, suggesting a potential treatment for Ebola.
Vaccines developed for H5N1, H7N9 avian influenza strains
Researchers developed vaccines for H5N1 and H7N9 avian influenza strains using a recombinant virus approach, protecting chickens against both strains. This method may lead to rapid vaccine development for emerging strains and new influenza vaccines for pigs, sheep, and other livestock.
EBV co-infection may boost malaria mortality in childhood
Co-infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may make a survivable malaria parasite infection lethal, according to experimental results with mice. EBV infection can suppress the immune system, allowing malaria parasites to take hold.
Antiviral compound may protect brain from pathogens, West Nile virus study shows
Researchers discovered that an antiviral compound called interferon-lambda can tighten the blood-brain barrier, making it harder for viruses like West Nile to invade the brain. This finding holds promise for treating deadly neurological conditions caused by viral infections.
Genomics laboratory capability in Liberia supports Ebola virus outbreak response
A new genomics laboratory in Liberia enables fast tracking of Ebola virus changes, which could impact diagnostics and therapeutics. The lab provides critical viral genomic information to support public health efforts.
Starved T cells allow hepatitis B to silently infect liver
Researchers at University College London have found that hepatitis B virus can persist in the liver by exploiting starved T cells. The study suggests that boosting the immune system and counteracting the liver's suppressive effect could potentially clear the infection.
Damming and damning hemorrhagic diseases
Scientists at the University of Montreal discover that a protein in the Rift Valley fever virus mimics human DNA repair factors, making it vulnerable to drug therapy. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for deadly tropical infections such as Ebola.
Changes in placenta's protective ability during pregnancy linked to transporter proteins
A study published in The American Journal of Pathology found that bacterial and viral infections differentially influence placental transporter proteins, reducing their expression in early pregnancy. This decrease may expose the embryo/fetus to harmful substances during a critical time in development.
Biting back: Scientists aim to forecast West Nile outbreaks
A new study by NCAR and CDC researchers finds strong correlations between warmer temperatures and higher rates of West Nile virus disease in the US. Precipitation also influences disease outbreaks, but with varying regional impacts. The study aims to develop a system to forecast outbreaks weeks or months in advance.
Studies show effectiveness of combo treatment for HCV patients with, without cirrhosis
Studies found that daclatasvir, asunaprevir, and beclabuvir regimens achieved high sustained virologic response (SVR) rates in patients with HCV genotype 1 infection. The UNITY-1 study reported an SVR rate of 91.3% among treatment-naive patients, while the UNITY-2 study showed a similar success rate for treatment-experienced patients. ...
Viruses responsible for 50 percent of gastroenteritis cases can spread by air
A new study by Université Laval researchers found that noroviruses responsible for 50% of global gastroenteritis cases can spread through the air up to several meters from an infected person. The discovery suggests that existing measures in hospitals may be insufficient to contain these infections.
Optimizing treatment protocols when diagnostics are costly
Researchers develop a mathematical platform to compute optimal diagnostic-guided vs. pro-active treatment strategies, showing that pro-active strategies may be worthwhile in resource-constrained settings. The study challenges current treatment paradigms and provides a framework for future research.
UTMB study shows that augmenting a gas naturally in our bodies fights RSV infection
A UTMB study shows that augmenting a gas naturally in our bodies, hydrogen sulfide, can reduce the severity of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. The researchers found that providing a drug that triggers a steady release of this gas blocks RSV viral replication and inflammation.
A CRISPR antiviral tool
Emory scientists have adapted the CRISPR genetic defense system to target the RNA of the hepatitis C virus in human cells. This approach could potentially prevent viral infections and has implications for biotechnology applications, including the prevention of viral infections in transgenic animals and plants.
Hepatitis C screening essential to help catch patients with advanced liver fibrosis
A study reveals that individuals with undiagnosed hepatitis C infection have a similar risk of developing advanced liver fibrosis as those who are diagnosed. The findings support the importance of regular screening for HCV, especially in high-risk groups.
Preliminary safety findings: IFN-free DAA combination in chronic HCV patients
The RUBY-1 study evaluates ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir in patients with stage 4 or 5 CKD and HCV GT1 infection, revealing a well-tolerated combination with rapid viral load suppression.
Sofosbuvir/daclatasvir combination effective treatment for difficult-to-treat hep C patients
The study found that the Sofosbuvir/daclatasvir combination achieved an 81.6% SVR4 rate after 12 weeks of treatment and a 93.9% SVR4 rate after 24 weeks, with a 100% SVR4 rate when combined with ribavirin. The treatment was effective in both cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic patients.
Ledipasvir-sofosbuvir combination proves effective in subset of patients with chronic hepatitis C
The study demonstrated that ledipasvir-sofosbuvir achieves high sustained virologic response rates in patients with chronic genotype 4 and 5 HCV infection. The treatment was found to be effective in both treatment-naive and treatment-experienced patients, with similar SVR12 rates across all patient types.
Many European countries ill-prepared to prevent and control the spread of viral hepatitis
Many European countries lack national strategies to manage chronic viral hepatitis disease surveillance, burden assessment, and intervention impact. Governments need support for developing plans, estimating the national burden, and improving surveillance systems.
New survey shows that half of people with hepatitis suffer from discrimination
A new survey found that nearly half of people with viral hepatitis have suffered some kind of discrimination, affecting their daily lives. The study highlights the devastating impact of stigma and discrimination on quality of life, particularly in family relationships and workplaces.
Hepatitis C infection linked to increased risk of heart disease
A new study reveals that chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. The study found significant increases in the cost of care and length of time in hospital for patients with HCV infections.