Articles tagged with Viral Infections
Researchers discovered how viruses affect phytoplankton, like Emiliania huxleyi, altering global carbon cycle and marine food chain. Viruses rewire host lipid metabolism, diverting fixed carbon from traditional food web, with implications for ocean ecosystems.
Researchers discovered that trace amounts of HCV RNA in successfully treated patients can be infectious. The study used an animal model to show that blood from these patients could cause HCV infection, which may be hard to detect due to delayed onset of disease.
Scientists have discovered that Lassa virus uses a two-step process to enter cells, involving the transport of the virus to a lysosome and the binding to an interior cell receptor called LAMP1. This finding could lead to new approaches for preventing the disease.
A clinical study found that a certain group of genes and an immune cell ratio can predict tolerance to liver transplants in patients with hepatitis C. This could enable patients to stop taking immunosuppressants after a certain period, reducing the burden of chronic HCV infection.
The review explores how RNA viruses induce Type I and III interferons, which regulate virus replication and host survival. Different types of interferons have distinct antiviral properties, playing a critical role in maintaining an optimum equilibrium between virus replication and host survival.
Norovirus infections contribute substantially to the global burden of acute gastroenteritis, causing both severe and mild cases across all age groups. The virus is highly contagious and can be spread through contaminated food or water and contact with surfaces.
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch have developed a human monoclonal antibody, m102.4, that protects nonhuman primates from Nipah virus disease even five days after infection. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a therapeutic treatment for people infected with the deadly virus.
Scientists at USAMRIID have proposed a set of standards for sequencing viral genomes, providing a common 'language' among researchers. The standards will facilitate the analysis and application of genome sequences across various fields, including diagnostics, vaccine development, and therapeutics.
Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai found that mammals do not use RNAi to fight viruses, contrary to previous studies. Instead, they use microRNAs, which are part of a different defense system based on interferons, signaling proteins made by immune cells.
Research found that equine influenza viruses from the early 2000s can easily infect dog respiratory tracts, while those from the 1960s replicate poorly. The study suggests that canine and human influenza viruses can mix, generating new viruses that could pose a pandemic risk.
A new T cell therapy has been developed to protect immunodeficient patients from infections. The treatment involves transferring a few immune cells, which are then used to fight off specific pathogens, and has shown great potential in clinical trials.
Researchers mapped live poultry markets in China to predict H7N9 spread; dense clusters of markets facilitate emergence and transmission. Maps help target surveillance and contain outbreaks.
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch have identified a new mutation in the chikungunya virus that could lead to more efficient transmission and infection. The mutation, which emerged in the Indian Ocean Basin, has the potential to spread to temperate regions where the Asian tiger mosquito thrives.
A team of researchers has found a potential way to enhance the body's ability to sense and inhibit viral infections by boosting a naturally occurring protein called OASL. This discovery could lead to more effective treatments for viruses ranging from hepatitis C to the flu.
Researchers show that proliferation unlocks expression of Interleukin-10 in NK cells, a protein that moderates the immune system. This helps prevent hyperactivation of CD8 T cells, which can cause damage. The study provides another important role for lymphocyte proliferation and may help design vaccines.
A new study reveals that late-stage sepsis triggers the reactivation of dormant viruses in the body, leading to secondary infections. Researchers found that 43% of sepsis patients had multiple viruses detected in their blood or urine.
A fungal protein has been found to cross the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to infect the brain and cause deadly meningitis. This discovery opens up new avenues for treating brain infections and cancers by targeting the protein or using it as a drug delivery system.
Researchers have discovered a bird flu virus with pandemic potential, closely related to the 1918 Spanish flu. The virus, composed of eight gene segments, can cause flu-like symptoms in ferrets and has the potential to spread efficiently among humans if it acquires key mutations.
A new study from University College London reveals that certain human immune genes, known as APOBEC, can mutate DNA in response to HPV infection, leading to cancer. The research identified specific mutations in the PIK3CA gene, which is a common target for new cancer drugs.
Researchers have unraveled the mechanism of necroptosis, a type of cell death linked to various diseases. Understanding this process enables the development of targeted medications to block or stimulate necroptosis, potentially treating chronic and acute inflammatory and degenerative diseases.
Researchers have discovered how lemurs fight the Cryptosporidium parasite using next-generation sequencing technology. This breakthrough could aid in conservation efforts and develop new methods for detecting and treating the infection.
Researchers tracked real-time virus replication and drug clearance in HCV patients, revealing a lag between liver and blood viral decay. The findings suggest the need for tailored therapy to achieve viral eradication and may inform vaccine development.
The USPSTF recommends screening for hepatitis B virus (HBV) in nonpregnant high-risk adolescents and adults, as well as postnatal immunoprophylaxis to prevent maternal transmission. Studies have shown that these interventions can reduce mortality and hospital readmissions related to heart failure.
A team of scientists has identified a previously unknown form of lymphocyte that protects against intracellular infection, providing important insights into the human immune system. The discovery of these 'precursor cells' could lead to the development of new vaccination strategies to prevent intracellular infections.
A new drug, GS-5806, has been shown to safely reduce viral load and clinical illness in healthy adult volunteers infected with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The Phase 2a challenge study achieved primary and secondary endpoints, suggesting potential for clinical trials in naturally infected patients.
Researchers found that 69% of healthy Americans are infected with one or more of 109 HPV strains, most of which appear harmless. The study highlights the complexities of the HPV viral biome and the need for broader diagnostic tests to accurately assess infection status.
A study found that people enrolled in methadone treatment programs are receptive to HCV education and treatment. The research suggests that these facilities can provide sustained HCV treatment by linking care to substance abuse treatment, leading to improved adherence.
Scientists have developed an early warning system to predict dengue infections for Brazil's 553 microregions during the football World Cup. The system estimates little risk of dengue outbreaks in southern and central capitals, but predicts a moderate risk in Rio de Janeiro and Salvador.
The US prison population has a high prevalence of hepatitis C infection and is readily reachable for testing and treatment. The researchers argue that targeting prisoners could cure the greatest number of people infected with the virus, benefiting society in the long run.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that IL-27 balances the immune response to influenza, reducing lung damage and improving recovery. The researchers discovered that well-timed IL-27 treatment can be beneficial for mice infected with a highly pathogenic influenza strain.
Researchers at NIH's NIAID have developed a monkey model of human hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, allowing them to study the disease's progression and potential treatments. The study found that the virus triggers a life-threatening immune response nearly two weeks after infection, providing a potential target for early diagnosis.
Researchers identified a novel antiviral agent that blocks influenza infection in cell culture without developing resistance. The study suggests the potential of small molecule MK2206 as an effective treatment option for Tamiflu-resistant pH1N1 virus infections.
Dr. Richard Plemper is developing novel therapeutics against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection. He aims to identify an anti-RSV drug and at least one distinct alternative compound to address the unmet clinical need for RSV therapeutics.
Researchers are mapping norovirus occurrences in pubs, restaurants, and hotels across the North West and South East of England. The study aims to reduce infections by collecting swabs from work surfaces and investigating virus strains in high-risk foods like oysters and berries.
Researchers from Inserm and the Institut Pasteur have identified a new variant of the Ebola virus in Guinea. The virus is highly contagious and has a high mortality rate, with symptoms including fever, severe diarrhea, and vomiting. The discovery highlights the need for increased measures to prevent transmission from wild fauna to humans.
Research by Sang-Moo Kang of Georgia State University found that ginseng can improve survival rates of human lung epithelial cells infected with the influenza A virus. Red ginseng extract also reduced inflammation and improved immune response. Additionally, Korean red ginseng extract inhibited RSV replication and suppressed inflammator...
Deaths from viral hepatitis have surpassed HIV/AIDS as a preventable cause of death in Australia, with an estimated 1,500 liver cancer deaths per year. Chronic viral hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated, but access to effective care and treatment can reduce these risks.
International research group recognizes UTMB professors Frederick A. Murphy and Thomas G. Ksiazek for their groundbreaking work on filoviruses, including Ebola and Marburg viruses. The award acknowledges their decades-long efforts to develop vaccines and treatments for these deadly diseases.
Hepatitis C virus infects liver cells' energy centers, damaging mitochondria and recruiting proteins to eliminate damaged area. This process helps the virus persist in the body, making mitochondrial operations a potential therapeutic target.
Researchers at Aalto University have successfully developed a novel nanocrystalline cellulose that effectively inhibits alphavirus infection in cells. The compound was found to prevent viral spread in 88-100% of cases, with no negative effects on cell viability.
SBEL1, a compound isolated from Chinese herbal medicines, has been found to inhibit hepatitis C virus (HCV) activity by approximately 90%. It blocks virus entry and inhibits IRES-mediated translation, reducing HCV protein production and RNA replication.
A phase III study found that simeprevir-based regimens achieved high SVR12 rates in HCV genotype 4-infected patients. The study showed that response-guided therapy criteria were met by most treatment-naïve and prior-relapser patients, resulting in high SVR12 rates.
Researchers have discovered that the bicolored shrew acts as a 'pathogen reservoir' for the Borna virus, transmitting it to horses. The virus is not directly contagious and requires an intermediate host to spread, highlighting the importance of keeping shrews away from stables to prevent transmission.
A recent study found that mortality from viral hepatitis is significantly higher than from HIV/AIDS across EU countries. In 2010, there were nearly 90,000 deaths due to hepatitis C and nearly 31,000 deaths due to hepatitis B, compared to just over 8,000 deaths from HIV/AIDS.
A recent study has identified five essential mutations allowing the H5N1 bird flu virus to spread through the air between ferrets. These findings could provide crucial insights for future surveillance and early warning systems, potentially preventing future pandemics.
Scientists at The University of Texas at Austin have discovered that the influenza A virus uses a protein called NS1 to outwit the body's natural defense mechanism DDX21, which blocks viral replication. By targeting NS1, researchers may be able to develop new antiviral drugs to combat the flu.
Researchers have discovered a potential new therapy for influenza by targeting the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) molecule. This molecule is found to play a crucial role in antiviral immunity and is inhibited by a compound that increases survival rates in mice infected with the H1N1 flu virus.
University of Montreal scientists discovered how Epstein Barr (EBV) virus takes over gene regulating machinery to replicate itself. The viruses trick the human defense systems by mimicking components, allowing them to survive and cause diseases like infectious mononucleosis and lymphoma.
The European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) has published online recommendations for managing hepatitis C, which reflect the approval of three new direct-acting antivirals. The guidelines provide best practice on key areas, including treatment indications, available drugs, and measures to improve treatment adherence. Wit...
Researchers at the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal have discovered how the immune system kills abnormal blood cells. The study found that EAT-2 and SAP molecules work together to activate natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in protecting against viruses and cancer cells.
A USGS and CDC study found that Northern sea otters off Washington state's coast were infected with the pandemic 2009 H1N1 flu virus. The presence of antibodies in 70% of the sea otters suggests they were previously exposed to influenza, highlighting their susceptibility to the virus.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have identified a specific RSV-encoded non-structural protein (NS2) as the genetic trigger for severe lung infections in infants. The discovery could lead to new diagnostic tools and treatments, reducing hospitalizations caused by RSV infection.
Researchers used cryo-Electron Microscopy to visualize dynamic activities of rotaviruses, revealing internal features that changed with levels of viral messenger RNA production. This study provides new insights into the mechanics of rotavirus RNA synthesis and potential targets for treatment.
Frail elderly people living in residential care facilities are at increased risk of severe illness or death from viral gastroenteritis. Prompt notification of outbreaks to public health units led to a shorter outbreak duration.
A team of researchers has developed a new generation of therapeutics against West Nile virus using tobacco plants. The monoclonal antibodies were shown to be effective in protecting mice from lethal doses even up to 4 days after infection.
Researchers found that rotavirus infection accelerates type 1 diabetes development through a bystander effect, where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. The study suggests that treatments targeting this immune response could be beneficial for preventing type 1 diabetes in children at risk.
Researchers found that rotavirus infection activates specific immune cells, including dendritic cells and T cells, which can recognize and destroy insulin-producing islet cells. This 'bystander activation' contributes to the acceleration of autoimmune diabetes in a mouse model.
Researchers found detectable JC virus DNA in at least one cell subtype of 26 out of 49 patients with MS starting natalizumab therapy. This study suggests that ongoing studies are needed to investigate the mechanism behind PML in natalizumab-treated MS patients.
Quail and chickens are likely sources of infection for the H7N9 influenza virus, according to a study published in the Journal of Virology. The research found that quail efficiently transmitted the virus, while other poultry species were resistant or did not become infected.
A new bioinsecticide has been developed using a baculovirus to control a pest of banana plantations. The treatment is more effective than traditional methods and poses fewer environmental hazards.