Research on viral diseases and the response to them. Covers Ebola and mpox, diagnostics, post-viral fatigue, and outbreak control strategies.
A suspected case of sexual Ebola transmission was confirmed using genomic analysis, providing evidence of direct transmission between an EVD survivor and his partner. The study also shows the persistence of infectious EBOV in semen for over 179 days after disease onset.
Favipiravir successfully treats Lassa virus infection in guinea pigs, with high-dose treatment offering complete protection. The antiviral drug outperforms ribavirin, which can cause severe disease after treatment ends.
A comprehensive genomic analysis suggests that dengue fever can persist year-round in southern China, posing a significant threat to public health. The study found a complex mix of viral subtypes, increasing the risk of epidemic outbreaks when new variants emerge and infect people with no prior exposure.
Researchers highlight key areas for cervical cancer prevention, including elearning programs and HPV infection studies. The Pan American Health Organization reports 36,000 deaths due to cervical cancer in the Americas, mostly in Latin America.
Researchers identify that activation of normally protective immune responses causes nerve cell death by affecting mitochondria function. SARM1 protein is responsible, providing a potential target for therapy.
Researchers discovered that the Dengue virus NS1 protein binds to the host enzyme Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), increasing its glycolytic activity to support viral replication. This finding suggests that GAPDH is a crucial target for developing new treatments against dengue.
A recent study published in Neurology suggests that children who have suffered from recent infections or are not up-to-date on their vaccinations are at a higher risk of stroke. The study, which analyzed data from over 350 children, found that 18% of those who experienced strokes had recently contracted an infection.
A recent animal study broadens understanding of the flu virus's impact on the immune system, revealing a more dynamic process that engages multiple biological pathways. This research may lead to the development of more effective vaccines against influenza and other viruses.
Researchers found that infants infected with rhinovirus had lower respiratory microbiota diversity, while asymptomatic infections did not. Frequent early-life viral infections were also associated with reduced overall microbiota diversity.
A team at University of California - Santa Cruz developed chip-based technology for reliable Ebola detection, combining microfluidic and optofluidic chips. The system achieved comparable sensitivity to PCR analysis with excellent specificity.
A recent study by international researchers has developed a predictive tool to assess the likely impact of a new influenza pandemic. By analyzing clinical episode data from military personnel, they estimated key parameters such as transmissibility and severity, enabling early mitigation strategies.
Researchers at University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich develop new treatment methods for rare brain disease PML. A vaccine against the disease could be developed using specific antibodies that recognize the most important mutants of the JC virus.
Researchers discovered the soft palate plays a key site for flu virus emergence and transmission, binding preferentially to mammalian-type SA, which is associated with airborne transmission. The finding may aid efforts to define properties governing flu virus transmissibility and predict pandemic potential.
Researchers discovered that flu viruses gain ability to spread through air by adapting to bind to specific human receptors, with the soft palate playing a key role in this process. The findings provide insight into how flu viruses evolve airborne transmissibility and can help identify viruses with potential to cause global outbreaks.
A breakthrough genetic testing method called VirCapSeq-VERT has been developed to detect and sequence viral infections. The platform enables simultaneous testing for hundreds of different viruses and provides near-complete genome sequencing.
Researchers at NIAID can detect infectious prion protein in mouse brains within a week of inoculation, surpassing prior detection times of six weeks. The study found that the protein was generated outside blood vessels in a specific brain region where drug treatment could be targeted.
A virulent strain of BVDV-2c virus affected over 5,000 cattle in Germany, causing severe symptoms and significant economic losses. The study suggests that farmers and people who visit farms should take biosecurity measures to prevent disease transmission.
Researchers found significant antigenic difference within each dengue serotype, suggesting individuals infected with one type may not be protected against different strains. The study's findings have implications for vaccine design and understanding of the virus's evolution.
Researchers analyzed breast tissue from 239 women, comparing samples with and without breast cancer for the presence of bovine leukemia virus. They found a significant association between BLV infection and an increased risk of breast cancer, with odds ratio higher than obesity, alcohol consumption, and post-menopausal hormone use.
Genetic mutations in Ebola virus appear to block antibody-based treatments from warding off infection. The mutations, or 'escape variants,' have implications for the continued development of therapeutics to treat Ebola virus disease, which has claimed over 11,000 lives in West Africa.
Scientists created a detailed model of the NS3 helicase enzyme, which facilitates viral replication. The study provides insights into how this protein interacts with RNA and could lead to the development of new treatments that target only the hepatitis C virus without harming human cells.
Researchers have discovered that the dengue virus NS1 protein acts as a toxin, similar to bacterial cell wall products. This finding allows them to re-purpose existing drugs for a potential dengue treatment.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have identified nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) as a key culprit responsible for fluid loss and resulting shock in severe dengue virus infections. Blocking this protein in mice protected them from lethal effects, suggesting it could be a prime target for drugs and vaccines.
A new study reveals how immune cells, such as neutrophils and T cells, coordinate their efforts to fight infections. By understanding this teamwork, scientists hope to develop new ways to control and improve the body's response to illnesses like multiple sclerosis and lupus.
Leptospirosis is a poorly understood and often misdiagnosed bacterial disease with a high case fatality rate. The researchers aim to develop an inexpensive, sensitive, and efficient diagnostic test for leptospirosis, which could lead to improved clinical outcomes and reduced mortality.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified a critical difference in how cells respond to DNA breaks versus viral infections. The discovery reveals that cells can selectively neutralize viral DNA without triggering a global response, which could lead to the development of new cancer-selective viral therapies.
A team of researchers from Pitt, Drexel, and NIH found that the Ebola virus can survive in detectable concentrations in wastewater for at least a week or longer. The study suggests that procedures for disposing of contaminated liquid waste might underestimate the virus' ability to persist.
Scientists have discovered a new virus in seals that is closely related to human hepatitis A virus, raising concerns about the emergence of hepatitis A. The researchers found the virus in harbor seals off the coast of New England and suggest it may be present in other wildlife species.
Researchers identified a new virus, phopivirus, in seals genetically similar to hepatitis A, suggesting it may have originated in animals. The discovery provides clues on the emergence of hepatitis A and highlights the importance of studying wildlife reservoirs of zoonotic viruses.
A recent study found that labeling a child's symptoms as 'pink eye' can mislead parents into wanting antibiotics, even when they're not necessary. The study suggests that physicians should be aware of the effect of words on parents' expectations for treatment.
Research detects RSV on personal clothing and high-touch areas of NICU, highlighting the need for frequent cleaning and visitor screening. Hand hygiene practices are crucial in mitigating transmission of respiratory viruses like RSV.
Scientists discovered that helper T cells boost killer cell reproduction and provide memory, enabling them to remember previous infections. This understanding could lead to the development of new vaccines that activate killer cells with harmless fragments of disease pathogens.
SLU researchers suggest approach to fight common virus in immunosuppressed patients by targeting Type 1 interferon pathway. The study found that disrupting the STAT2 gene in Syrian hamsters resulted in 100-1,000 times more virus replication compared to wild-type control animals.
Researchers created a vomiting device to study the aerosolization of virus particles similar to human norovirus. They found that only 0.02% of the total virus in the vomit was aerosolized, but this can still amount to thousands of infectious particles.
A new genomic catalog of nearly 200 viral genomes provides insight into the origins and transmission of Lassa virus. The data set confirms rodent-to-human transmission as the primary mode of infection.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.