Articles tagged with Viral Infections
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.
A major study reveals that only 23% of seasonal and pandemic flu infections caused noticeable symptoms, with a staggering 77% remaining asymptomatic. The research, published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, underscores the need for improved surveillance to accurately track disease burden.
Researchers found that patients with specific gene variants exhibited a significantly lower risk of experiencing relapse after treatment for chronic hepatitis C. The study, which involved over 300 patients, suggests that these variants may play a role in preventing the virus from becoming unstable and causing recurrence.
A global inventory of flu strains in birds has identified over 116 avian flu strains in wild birds, twice the number found in domestic birds. The study also reveals patterns of flu diversity in different bird hosts, with some strains specific to certain species.
Researchers will develop and test new vaccines and broad-spectrum treatments for Ebola and Marburg, which are considered high-risk bioterrorist pathogens. The grant aims to address the critical problem of no approved treatments or vaccines for these deadly viruses, with potential applications in post-exposure treatment.
A clinical trial found that low-dose oral interferon-alpha can prevent hepatitis C virus (HCV) relapse in patients with mild liver fibrosis. The study's results are significant for the optimal use of IFN in HCV treatment.
A multi-institutional team, led by Rachel Whitaker, studies host-viral interactions to understand how viruses can protect hosts from competitors and aid in survival. The research aims to develop a theoretical model of eco-evolutionary dynamics between viruses and microbes.
Researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of a small-molecule drug, BCX4430, in protecting nonhuman primates from the lethal Marburg virus. The drug protected cynomolgous macaques and guinea pigs from infection when administered by injection or inhalation.
Researchers found that feeding plant extracts to weanling pigs challenged with PRRS and E. coli reduced the frequency of diarrhea, improved feed efficiency, and altered gut morphology. The study suggests that these extracts may be used to alleviate disease symptoms in pigs.
Researchers at The Scripps Research Institute have mapped the severe immune overreaction known as a cytokine storm in flu virus infections. The study found that a potent new class of anti-inflammatory compounds can quiet this reaction, allowing infected hosts to mount an effective immune response.
A study has found that invading grey squirrels may pass a deadly virus to native red squirrels through their urine, parasites and faeces. The research also suggests the disease persists best in warm dry conditions and could be slowed by limiting contact between species.
Scientists have discovered a way to selectively degrade viral DNA in the cell nucleus of infected liver cells, opening up new treatment options for hepatitis B. This breakthrough may allow for the development of a treatment that can heal hepatitis B without damaging the host cell.
Researchers developed a vaccine against rodent skin papillomavirus that prevented benign and malignant skin tumors in vaccinated animals. The vaccine worked even when given to already infected animals and suppressed the virus in mice treated with immune-suppressive drugs.
A study found that newborn mice's lung dendritic cells respond differently to RSV infection, leading to impaired CD8+ T cell responses. This understanding can guide vaccine approaches for infants to promote adult-like immune responses.
A study by Penn microbiologists found that statins can lower cholesterol levels and make cells less susceptible to hantavirus infection. This could lead to potential treatments for the deadly virus, which causes flu-like symptoms and respiratory distress syndrome.
The study estimates cumulative healthcare expenditures and lost productivity due to WNV disease have been substantially underestimated. Hospitalized cases of WNV disease have cost a cumulative $778 million in health care expenditures and lost productivity.
A genetic variation near an area that encodes for interferon-lamda3 (IFNL3) is responsible for the differences between those who can and cannot effectively clear HCV. Individuals with a favorable IFNL3 genotype have a better outcome in fighting HCV.
Researchers have made a significant discovery that could lead to the development of an effective RSV vaccine, a major cause of infant mortality worldwide. The team designed artificial proteins capable of stimulating an immune response against RSV using a new software app.
Researchers identified four proteins involved in hantavirus entry into human host cells, all part of a protein complex regulating cholesterol production. Statins, commonly used to lower cholesterol, also showed promise in preventing viral infection.
A Chinese woman died from a new bird flu virus H10N8 after visiting a live poultry market, with the virus showing genetic characteristics allowing it to replicate efficiently in humans. The H10N8 strain has been previously isolated but never reported in humans before.
Researchers have developed a simple immune-based screening test for inclusion body disease (IBD) in snakes, a debilitating condition that affects boa constrictors and pythons. The test uses a monoclonal antibody to detect the presence of IBD in snakes, offering a potential solution for managing the spread of the disease.
Researchers found that skin cells from people with type 1 diabetes display elevated calcium levels when exposed to cytokines or fat, suggesting a link between environmental stimuli and genetic predisposition. This discovery may help identify susceptible individuals before disease onset.
Researchers detect Tobacco Ringspot Virus in honeybees, suggesting a link to their decline. The study reveals that infected bees can transmit the virus to each other and even their queen mother.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute develop new drug discovery technique to quickly and cheaply identify antibodies that protect human cells from viral infections. The technique successfully identifies two antibodies that prevent cold virus-induced cell death, highlighting its potential for treating various diseases.
New research conducted at Kansas State University's Biosecurity Research Institute shows promise in fighting the deadly H7N9 influenza virus. The study reveals that Alferon N can inhibit the replication of wild type and Tamiflu-resistant H7N9 virus strains, providing a potential treatment option.
A novel study suggests that monitoring inactive chronic hepatitis B (HBV) carriers is a cost-effective strategy for China. The M&T strategy, which includes twice-yearly assessment of HBV and ALT levels, would result in significant health benefits at the population level, including reduced liver cancer and mortality rates.
Researchers have developed a safe and effective combination treatment for hepatitis C using oral antiviral drugs daclatasvir and sofosbuvir. The therapy was found to cure 98% of patients with genotype 1, and showed promise in treating genotypes 2 and 3, with minimal side effects.
Researchers at McGill University have identified the cIAP2 enzyme as a key player in resisting flu infections by protecting lung tissue from damage. By enhancing body resistance to the virus, this discovery opens up new possibilities for controlling and treating influenza.
A new study reveals that hepatitis C infection rates vary significantly among Hispanic groups in the US, with Puerto Rican individuals facing the highest risk. The study, which analyzed data from over 11,000 individuals, found that infection rates range from less than 1% to 11.6% among different ethnic groups.
Researchers developed a technique to study RSV's structure and activity in living cells, which could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs and a vaccine. The imaging technology uses probes that quickly attach to RNA within cells, allowing scientists to visualize the virus's entry, assembly, and replication.
Researchers analyzed 29 strains of the parasite and found that some South American or atypical North American strains provoke strong inflammation in infected cells, leading to tissue damage. The study suggests that host immune responses may be causing most of the damage rather than the parasite itself.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a unique immune avoidance mechanism used by a deadly mosquito-borne virus to suppress human immunity. The discovery could lead to the development of vaccines and treatments for eastern equine encephalitis virus, which has a 30-70% fatality rate.
Researchers have identified diverse strains of Wolbachia bacteria that offer strong antiviral protection against diseases like dengue, but may come with a cost to the host's lifespan. The study found that certain strains replicate more quickly and reach higher concentrations in flies, potentially reducing their lifespan.
Researchers discovered a temporary tube-shaped structure in the phiX174 virus to deliver its DNA during infection. The tube attaches to host cell membranes and contains amino acids ideal for DNA transfer. This finding may be crucial for efficient genome translocation.
Research found that reducing glucose metabolism weakens the ability of influenza viruses to infect mammalian cells in lab cultures. The study suggests that altering glucose metabolism may be a potential new approach to inhibit influenza viral infection.
Researchers at UTMB have discovered a way to block disease pathways that could defeat devastating human infections. A new candidate drug inhibiting Epac has been shown to protect normal mice from fatal rickettsial infection and may also be effective against some viral infections.
Researchers found that HCV antiviral therapy reduces risks of kidney disease, stroke, and cardiovascular diseases in diabetic patients. The study also linked diabetes with chronic HCV infection, suggesting a potential association between the two conditions.
Researchers identified weak points in capsids and inferred spontaneous assembly processes, discovering each shell is made of protein 'tiles' that spontaneously join up like Lego pieces.
Mount Sinai researchers found that a drug-resistant H7N9 virus retained its ability to replicate and cause severe illness in humans, even after becoming resistant to Tamiflu. The study suggests that flu viruses can develop drug-resistant mutations without suffering a penalty in terms of their fitness.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that crop-infecting viruses use aphids as pawns to spread infection to healthy vegetation. By altering plant biochemistry, these viruses repel visiting aphids and force them to move to healthier plants, unwittingly transporting and spreading the virus.
A recent study by TSRI scientists has found that the emerging bird flu strain H7N9 is still mainly adapted for infecting birds, not humans. The researchers analyzed virus samples from the Chinese outbreak and found that H7N9 viruses do not yet seem well adapted for binding to human receptors.