Articles tagged with Viral Infections
Researchers discovered that the immune system can turn off cellular enzymes needed by the Influenza A virus, which could lead to new treatments for flu. The study found that PAI-1 protein plays a key role in this process, and its inhibitors may be used to combat viral infections.
Researchers found evidence of prior exposure to Ebola virus among patients with Lassa fever in Sierra Leone between 2011-2014. The discovery suggests that the deadly disease may have been circulating in the area for years before the 2014 outbreak, sparking hope for prevention and control strategies.
Researchers at Gilead Sciences and Beryllium published structural data on HCV polymerase during RNA replication, shedding light on the NS5B catalytic mechanism. This information will be useful in identifying replication inhibitors of other pathogenic viruses in the Flaviviridae family.
A new variant of the rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus is threatening the survival of the Iberian lynx, a predator that relies heavily on wild rabbits for prey. The study found a significant decline in rabbit populations and a notable drop in the number of Iberian lynx cubs born in the wild.
Research by Griffith University's Institute for Glycomics has made a significant breakthrough in tackling the human parainfluenza virus, which causes respiratory infections such as croup and pneumonia. The team has demonstrated how the virus engages specific sugars to spread and cause infection.
Researchers found that targeting a single protein, VP24, was sufficient to protect monkeys from Ebola virus infection. The medication, AVI-7537, also reduced viral load and liver/kidney damage in infected animals.
Scientists developed an antiviral compound targeting VP24, a key protein in the Ebola virus, which protected 75% of infected monkeys. The compound, AVI-7537, was found to be safe and well-tolerated, offering hope for developing effective therapies against the deadly disease.
Research suggests that immuosuppressives and anti-cancer drugs can reanimate hepatitis B in previously infected individuals, according to a study published in Hepatology. The study authors emphasize the importance of routine screening for HBV before starting treatment with immunosuppressives or anti-cancer drugs.
Researchers from Arizona State University and Georgia State University model the impact of timely diagnostic testing on Ebola's spread across populations. Early detection provides the opportunity to safely isolate and treat individuals before they become contagious, significantly reducing the number of infected individuals.
A new study found that humans carry fewer endogenous retroviruses in their genomes compared to other mammals. This decrease may be attributed to a less bloody evolutionary history, with reduced exposure to blood-borne viruses as humans transitioned from biting during conflicts and hunting.
Researchers found that blood tests can produce similar results for patients with Chikungunya virus and those with rheumatoid arthritis, highlighting the need for diagnostic tools. Detailed travel histories are crucial to distinguish between the two conditions.
A study found that canine distemper in lions is no longer primarily spread by domestic dogs but rather by multiple wild carnivore species. The virus can jump between species in natural ecosystems, threatening vulnerable populations.
Researchers at the University of Georgia have successfully tested a new treatment on mice that cures the disease even after the virus has spread to the brain. The new vaccine rescues mice much longer after infection than what was traditionally thought possible, with 50% of treated mice saved even after physical symptoms appear.
A new report reveals that H7 influenza viruses regularly shuffle combinations of genetic segments, each with its own history of travel among hosts and geographic places. The study uses genomic analysis to visualize the spread of H7 genes across vast distances, identifying transboundary and transcontinental transmission.
Researchers investigated Ebola's deadly nature, discovering that genetic changes enable the virus to become more severe with each transmission. The study sheds light on the evolutionary goal of Ebola virus to become more lethal, informing future treatment strategies.
The 2015 Louis-Jeantet Prize for Medicine was awarded to Emmanuelle Charpentier and Rudolf Zechner for their pioneering work on harnessing bacterial immunity to develop genome editing technology, known as CRISPR-Cas9. The prize also recognizes Zechner's contributions to understanding lipid metabolism and its role in various diseases.
Experts argue that widespread hepatitis C screening may not lead to net clinical benefit, citing potential harms and a lack of strong evidence. Many patients infected with hepatitis C will not develop end-stage liver disease, rendering unnecessary treatment.
A new study shows that cold atmospheric pressure plasma significantly reduced the number of virus particles in norovirus samples, making it a promising method for continuous disinfection of contaminated surfaces. The technology is environmentally friendly and effective against viruses with high tenacity, like noroviruses.
Researchers at Washington State University have found a brain protein called AcPb that helps regulate sleep and speeds up animal recovery from influenza. The study reveals that without this protein, animals develop more severe symptoms of infection and die at higher rates.
Stephanie Stanford, Ph.D., has been awarded a $1.6 million grant by the American Diabetes Association to investigate the genetic and environmental causes of type 1 diabetes. The grant will support her research on the PTPN22 gene mutation that significantly increases the risk of type 1 diabetes.
A 24-week course of sofosbuvir and ribavirin prevents HCV recurrence after liver transplantation, with positive outcomes for short- and long-term health. The therapy is effective in 70% of patients, including those with advanced disease.
Researchers found that even minimal mutations in viral RNA can make it too bulky for the capsid, preventing replication. The study used computer simulations and verified previous research on optimized RNA packing.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that RSV infection may increase the risk of pneumococcal pneumonia, especially in infants. High RSV activity was associated with significant increases in pneumococcal disease among children under one year old.
A new system between the gut and nervous system may be more direct than hormone release in signaling fullness. The connection also suggests a potential pathway for foodborne viruses to infect the brain.
Researchers have advanced understanding of rotavirus's attack on human cells through carbohydrate receptors, providing clues for anti-rotaviral drugs. The discovery has implications for childhood susceptibility to rotavirus disease and offers potential for new vaccine development strategies.
In a Hong Kong hospital, proactive infection control measures implemented since March 2013 successfully controlled the spread of Avian flu (A H7N9), with only two patient cases and no staff infections reported. The integrated approach utilized active surveillance, rapid molecular diagnostic testing, and hand hygiene protocols.
A study published in EMBO Molecular Medicine suggests that contact between humans and virus-infected bats may have originated the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. The researchers found no evidence of larger wildlife being the source of infection, expanding the range of possible Ebola virus sources to insectivorous free-tailed bats.
Researchers at Aarhus University have found that genetic variations in the interferon lambda 4 protein impact treatment effectiveness for hepatitis C. This discovery suggests that personalized medicine targeting specific genetic variants could lead to better treatment outcomes for patients.
Many HCV patients are lost in healthcare due to inadequate screening, testing, and treatment. A new study found that up to 70% of those with acute infection have no symptoms until years later.
Researchers identified 53 existing drugs that can hinder Ebola virus entry into human cells, including cancer drugs and antibiotics. This study may lead to rapid development of treatments against Ebola infection.
Simple screenings of organ donors can help minimize the risk of Ebola transmission through organ donation. Experts recommend excluding individuals who have recently traveled to or worked in countries where Ebola is active for a 21-day period before they can donate organs.
Researchers at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have developed a potential cure for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The new treatment, birinapant, triggers the breakdown of proteins that prevent infected cells from self-destructing, allowing infected cells to die.
New studies suggest that MERS-CoV is unlikely to reach epidemic status due to effective infection control measures. The virus exhibits a high mortality rate, but hospital-acquired infections dominate the epidemiology. Prolonged infection control measures are crucial in severely ill patients with MERS-CoV.
A new study has shown that a simeprevir-based therapy is as effective as the standard of care in treating chronic Hepatitis C virus infection, with fewer adverse events. The study found that simeprevir was well-tolerated and could be a viable alternative for patients who cannot access or afford newer treatment options.
Researchers from Mainz and Würzburg have developed new active substances for treating the dengue virus, showing a high effectiveness rate even at low concentrations. The new inhibitors target only dengue viruses without affecting similar Hepatitis C viruses.
Ebola virus disease is a febrile illness with severe gastrointestinal symptoms that can cause profound water and electrolyte depletion leading to circulatory collapse and death. Implementing practical protocols for managing fluids and electrolytes has not been given sufficient priority, which could substantially reduce the death rate.
Scientists discovered that SPLUNC1 binds to pulmonary lipids to fight lung infection, keeping airways flexible and hydrated. This finding brings the protein closer to becoming a viable therapy for asthma and COPD patients.
The authors of a Transfusion commentary argue that forgoing routine lab tests may compromise patients' health more than any reduction in the risk of transmission. Experts recommend implementing well-characterized infection prevention and control recommendations to provide a safe environment for both patients and employees.
Medical experts call for radical improvements in UK liver disease treatment and detection, citing a 'postcode lottery' for patients. The commission recommends increasing specialist centers and improving primary care services to address excessive alcohol use and obesity.
Scientists have developed protective human antibodies using DNA-vaccinated cows, which showed potent neutralizing activity against two types of hantaviruses. The antibodies protected hamsters from lethal disease caused by these viruses, with seven out of eight treated animals surviving without symptoms.
A study by researchers at the University of Edinburgh reveals that parasites can hide their genetic material inside 'vesicles' that mimic natural cellular functions, suppressing the immune response. This discovery could inform new strategies for treating diseases caused by parasitic worms, as well as allergies like hayfever.
Researchers discovered that a key Ebola virus protein can trigger an excessive immune response, leading to massive inflammation and increased vascular permeability. This finding suggests a potential new target for reducing the severity of Ebola disease.
Scientists have determined the complete structure of the influenza virus polymerase, a key machine that makes copies of the virus' genetic material and reads out instructions. The high-resolution structure reveals how the polymerase works as a whole, providing new insights into its function and potential targets for drug design.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health found that infection with a common virus helped mice repair damaged intestinal tissue and restore their immune defenses. The study suggests that the virome, or natural presence of viruses in the gut, plays a crucial role in maintaining health and fighting infections.
Radiologists have issued a special report on radiology preparedness for handling cases of Ebola virus, outlining protocols and recommendations for healthcare administrators. The report emphasizes the importance of clear communication, proper equipment use, and specialized isolation units to prevent infection of medical personnel.
A cell study has uncovered a gene mutation that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the body, leading to diseases like Lupus and Motor Neurone Disease. Researchers found that a defect in an alarm system protects the body from viruses and other infections.
A study found that flu viruses expressing specific avian hemagglutinins led to fatal infections in mice and caused significant cell damage in human lung cells. These findings suggest that certain hemagglutinins may induce programmed cell death, leading to enhanced disease severity.
Researchers created a 24-atom protein assembly that self-assembles into a porous molecular cube. This breakthrough could lead to the development of synthetic vaccines and targeted medicine delivery inside human cells. The discovery was made by UCLA biochemists led by Todd Yeates.
Researchers have created a new mouse model that allows them to study human glia in live animals, enabling the development of potential treatments for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The study found that the JC virus targets astrocytes, leading to inflammation and cell death, which can trigger PML.
The ferret genome sequencing study provides insights into the effects of pandemic flu and cystic fibrosis on respiratory tissues. The analysis shows distinct responses in the trachea and lungs to different viruses, shedding light on the course of infection.
A new study published in the British journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B suggests that increased genetic diversity can limit the spread and severity of viral infections in livestock and endangered species. Researchers found that viruses replicated more slowly and caused less severe disease when transmitted through genetically di...
A new study found that black children are less likely to be diagnosed with and receive broad-spectrum antibiotics for ear infections compared to white children. This disparity may be due to overtreatment and overdiagnosis in white children, and undertreatment and underdiagnosis in black children.
A mathematical model predicts that around 10 of 29 people with Ebola are likely to be detected at airport screening when trying to travel from West Africa to the UK and US by the end of the year.
For the first time, clinicians have successfully provided hemodialysis to a patient with Ebola virus disease, resulting in recovery of kidney function. The protocol involved careful measures to maximize safety and minimize risk of secondary transmission, demonstrating that renal replacement therapies can be provided safely.
Researchers have developed a self-repairing software called A3 that detects and eradicates malware, repairing damage and preventing re-infection. The software can repair complex security vulnerabilities in minutes without taking servers down.
A study found that patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection and advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis who attain SVR have survival rates comparable to those of the general population. However, patients without SVR experience reduced overall survival.
A new study has identified genetic material that recognizes early stages of infection in patients with hemorrhagic fevers, such as Lassa and Marburg viruses. This discovery could lead to the development of better diagnostics and improved treatment outcomes.
A new therapy to eradicate liver cells infected with hepatitis B virus has shown promising results in pre-clinical research. The treatment aims to clear patients of the disease, offering hope for those with chronic HBV infection. Dr Greg Ebert's work could lead to significant improvements in health outcomes for Australians and worldwide.
Researchers have discovered a way to grow a human norovirus by identifying a cell it targets in the intestine, enabling the study of its replication and potential treatments. The virus targets B cells, rather than intestinal epithelial cells, and is aided by gut bacteria in its infection process.
Researchers analyzed the host range of canine parvovirus (CPV) and found that viruses in domestic dogs and raccoons could infect a wider range of wild carnivores than previously thought. The study identified specific genetic changes associated with host adaptation, suggesting that these mutations can overcome barriers to infection.