Articles tagged with Viral Infections
Researchers at the University of North Carolina found that a common cancer drug can activate an Epstein-Barr virus infection, making cancer cells more susceptible to antiviral medications. This discovery may lead to new treatment strategies for EBV-related cancers.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute have created novel mouse models that accurately reflect the immune system's response to pathogens. The models use somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) to create mice from single T cells primed for toxoplasmosis, allowing for a more precise study of the immune system.
Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found that patients with hepatitis C infection were nearly twice as likely to develop kidney cancer as those without the disease. The study, published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, suggests a higher risk for younger HCV-positive patients.
A recent study reveals Toxoplasma gondii is prevalent among Iberian Lynx, with 81 of 129 sampled felids testing positive for antibodies. The parasite was also found in captive breeding centers, highlighting the need for prevention measures.
Researchers at the US Department of Agriculture's Animal Diseases Research Unit have discovered the viral life cycle of malignant catarrhal fever (MCF), a leading cause of disease in American bison. The virus undergoes several changes inside the animal's body, targeting specific cell types at different stages of its own life cycle.
Researchers at Michigan State University found a bacterium, Wolbachia, that can stop the dengue virus from replicating in mosquitoes, blocking disease transmission. The study provides new hope for controlling dengue fever, which affects 2.5 billion people worldwide.
A Johns Hopkins study found that more than half of donor kidneys infected with hepatitis C are discarded, despite the need among hepatitis C patients who may die waiting for an infection-free organ. The study suggests that using hepatitis C-positive kidneys could help those with hepatitis C and expand the organ supply.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered how specific proteins on cell surfaces bind to double-stranded RNA, triggering an immune response. This finding could lead to the development of targeted antiviral therapies with reduced side effects.
A new study identifies a protein pathway that protects blood vessels from hyper-inflammatory response to infection, reducing mortality rates in mouse models of avian flu and sepsis by up to 50%. The researchers found that activating the Robo4 pathway stabilizes blood vessels, preventing leakage and tissue damage.
A molecule called Rab35 acts as a switch to activate the fast-track recycling pathway, allowing cargo to be rapidly selected and transported. Defects in this trafficking pathway can lead to numerous diseases, including high cholesterol and neuropathies.
A study found that household discussions about influenza prevention reduced the risk of secondary cases by 40%. Transmission was rapid, with half of cases occurring within three days and nearly 90% within one week.
A study found that daily chlorhexidine bathing in a trauma center reduced the rate of MRSA colonization and treatment-resistant bacteria infections. Patients who received chlorhexidine baths were less likely to acquire catheter-related bloodstream infections and ventilator-associated pneumonia caused by MRSA.
Researchers have discovered exactly how one type of New World hemorrhagic fever virus latches onto and infects human cells, offering a much-needed lead toward new treatments. The finding identifies the apical domain of the transferrin receptor as an attractive target for drugs.
Researchers have identified genes that predispose people to gluten intolerance, which is linked to the human immune system and inflammations rather than gluten breakdown. The findings suggest a possible connection between virus infections and the onset of gluten intolerance.
Researchers have developed an experimental vaccine for chikungunya virus, which has already infected millions of people in Asia, Africa, and Europe. The vaccine, composed of virus-like particles, successfully protected monkeys from infection.
Scientists have discovered a new form of prion disease that causes brain artery damage, distinct from the typical sponge-like brain deterioration. The study may hold clues for treating Alzheimer's disease, as researchers found that removing a specific anchor from prion protein could prevent plaque accumulation and block fluid drainage.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a new gene-expression test that can detect Candida fungal infections in patients. The test measures how a patient's genes respond to the infection and has shown promising results in mice, indicating it could be an early detector of life-threatening candidemia.
Researchers at HZI have discovered a new adjuvant, c-di-IMP, that enhances immune responses and provides long-lasting protection. The molecule has been shown to stimulate important effector mechanisms in mice, making it a promising candidate for improving existing vaccines.
A new study suggests that mosquitoes, particularly Culex tarsalis, played a significant role in spreading West Nile virus across the US. The findings reveal that mosquitoes' flight patterns mimic the actual path of the virus's spread, contradicting previous assumptions that birds were primarily responsible.
A study by researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health suggests that mosquitoes played a primary role in spreading West Nile virus westward across the US. Genetic analysis detected widespread movement by Culex tarsalis populations, which were congruent with the pattern of West Nile virus infection across the country.
Researchers found that tall palm trees with debris should be targeted for Chagas disease surveillance and control. They suggest simple environmental management practices like removing organic debris can reduce the risk of vector-human contact.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have found that disrupting the SDF-1/CXCR4 interaction can prevent the recruitment of vasculogenic cells to the tumor site, blocking postirradiation development of functional tumor vasculature and tumor regrowth. This approach may be applicable to treating glioblastoma multiforme.
Researchers at UF's College of Veterinary Medicine have discovered that dolphins can harbor multiple infections of apillomaviruses, which are linked to cervical cancer in humans. The study suggests that dolphins may be an ideal model for studying human cervical cancer due to their genetic similarity to humans.
Researchers used population genetics approaches to identify gene variants that increase or decrease susceptibility to viral infections, finding 139 human genes with this effect. The study suggests these variants could be targeted for novel therapeutic approaches and vaccines.
Research reveals that flu-induced stress response is critical for resistance to secondary infection, involving increased production of glucocorticoids to control inflammation. The study found that mice without GCs were better able to suppress secondary bacterial infections, but lacking GCs led to a lethal excessive inflammatory response.
A Johns Hopkins Hospital campaign made seasonal flu vaccinations free and convenient, resulting in a double national average vaccine rate of 71.3% among staff. The hospital's policy requiring employees to wear face masks if not vaccinated also encouraged vaccination.
A new screening system for hepatitis C has been developed by Texas A&M University researchers, allowing for the study of all aspects of the virus's life cycle. The system enables the discovery of small, low-cost molecules that block the HCV life cycle, which could lead to more effective and affordable therapies.
Researchers identified specific mutations that enable a common plant virus to infect new species, shedding light on the viral-host interface. The study's findings could inform strategies for breeding resistant crops and understanding animal disease emergence.
Researchers have proven that subneutralizing levels of dengue virus antibodies exacerbate the disease, contradicting the normal function of antibodies. This finding has major implications for developing a vaccine against dengue virus, which annually infects 50-100 million people worldwide.
A study found that HBV genotype C is independently associated with a higher risk of cirrhosis in community-based residents in Eastern China. Logistic regression models identified age, sex, and viral load as major risk factors for probable cirrhosis.
Researchers found that two Lactobacillus strains improved Helicobacter pylori-infected gastritis by exhibiting anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. The study suggests using probiotics as an alternative to antibiotics for treating H. pylori-associated diseases.
Scientists successfully produced plant-based monoclonal antibodies that effectively combat West Nile virus infections, rivaling their mammalian cell counterparts. The production technique holds promise for making life-saving treatments more affordable in resource-constrained regions.
A targeted preventive approach using Tamiflu and strict hand hygiene measures contained the outbreak of H1N1 influenza among 171 campers. The plan, developed by Dr. David Kimberlin and implemented in 2009, successfully prevented illness in all campers, including those at high risk.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a plant-based therapeutic that effectively combats West Nile virus infection. The treatment, derived from tobacco plants, neutralizes the virus by binding to its surface protein, offering a promising alternative to existing treatments.
A common plant virus attracts aphids by elevating the odor cue of infected plants without changing it. The insects transmit the disease efficiently despite leaving quickly, implying a persistent mode of transmission beyond agriculture.
Researchers at National Jewish Health have discovered how Listeria monocytogenes triggers an endogenous pathway that dampens the host's own immune response. The bacteria makes infected immune cells release interferon-αβ, which reduces immune resistance to infection and causes food poisoning. This finding highlights the crosstalk betwee...
A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals that type I interferons are essential for combating Chikungunya virus infection. The unexpected finding is that fibroblasts, not immune cells, produce the virus-fighting proteins during infection.
Scientists have developed an experimental VLP vaccine that protects macaques and mice against chikungunya virus, a debilitating disease with no current treatment. The vaccine, using non-infectious virus-like particles, elicits immune responses and provides complete protection from infection.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have discovered a potential new way to stimulate the immune system to prevent or clear a viral infection by blocking a key protein in mouse immune systems. This approach may enhance the effectiveness of human vaccines designed to prevent viral infections.
The viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV) has been detected in fish from Lake Superior, Paradise, and Skanee in Michigan, and St. Louis Bay and Superior Bay in Wisconsin. The presence of the virus in all Great Lakes poses a significant threat to New York's $1.4 billion annual sport-fishing industry.
A new study suggests that flu can increase susceptibility to secondary bacterial super-infections, which can lead to high mortality rates. The research found a lethal synergy between the influenza virus and Haemophilus influenzae, mediated by innate immunity, and highlights the need for early antiviral and antibiotic treatment.
Scientists tested 2009 and 1918 H1N1 virus strains on chickens and ducks without causing disease or symptoms. The results suggest that birds played no role in the spread of these pandemic viruses.
Researchers discovered that the Ebola virus uses a protein called VP35 to mask its RNA, evading the host cell's immune response. This unique mechanism makes Ebola highly deadly and difficult to treat.
A new study by UT Southwestern Medical Center suggests that appendicitis may be caused by undetermined viral infection or infections. The researchers evaluated data over a 36-year period and found seasonal variations and clustering of cases, supporting the theory that appendicitis may be a viral disease.
A phase II study found that adding ketoprofen to pegylated-interferon (PEG-IFN) with or without ribavirin improves viral kinetics and early activation of the IFNa signaling pathway. This combination therapy shows promise for treating genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C.
Research by Dr. L Veijola and colleagues suggests H. pylori infection may trigger autoimmune gastritis, a condition that requires lifelong vitamin B12 supplementation. The study confirms previous findings that serum markers of autoimmune gastritis appear in patients with H. pylori, highlighting the potential for eradication therapy to ...
Researchers found that a master regulatory protein called KAP1 orchestrates silencing of viral sequences, preventing harm to the host. The discovery provides insights into evolution and suggests potential new therapies for fighting AIDS.
Researchers at Emory University have developed the Prokopack mosquito aspirator, a low-cost, efficient tool for monitoring adult mosquitoes and the diseases they carry. The device outperforms current gold standards in field and lab tests, providing insights into mosquito ecology and behavior.
Researchers have developed an early warning system to defend rare Jersey cows against the spread of bluetongue disease. By analyzing meteorological data and midge activity, the team can predict when the disease-carrying midges are likely to reach the UK and Channel Islands.
Researchers have identified two cellular proteins that are important factors in hepatitis C virus infection. The natural compound Quercetin inhibits the synthesis of these proteins, significantly inhibiting viral infection in tissue culture. A Phase I clinical trial will be launched to determine if the compound is safe and effective.
Prions, infectious protein particles devoid of DNA, can develop mutations and adapt through natural selection, leading to drug resistance. The study suggests that normal prion proteins may be more effective therapeutic targets than their abnormal forms, offering new hope for treating deadly neurodegenerative diseases.
A study found a strong correlation between the presence of Streptococcus pneumoniae and increased risk for severe H1N1 pandemic influenza virus infections. The bacteria were present in most severe cases, with a 125-fold increased risk of severe disease among individuals aged 6-55.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that young people under 18 are more susceptible to catching swine flu from an infected person in their household. However, the risk of transmission does not vary by age, with household contacts over 50 being the least likely to get infected.
A new study from the University of Pittsburgh suggests that short-term school closures can increase infection rates and prolong an epidemic. The research found that sustaining closures for at least eight weeks is crucial in decreasing the spread of infection.
Brazilian researchers have identified three distinct lung damage patterns and found that underlying medical conditions significantly contribute to fatal outcomes. The study highlights the importance of monitoring patients with pre-existing conditions, as they are at a higher risk of developing severe H1N1 infections.
A new compound, T-705, has been found to be effective and safe against H5N1 virus, a highly pathogenic bird flu virus, even three days after infection. The compound works by targeting the viral polymerase enzyme, making it a promising front-line drug for treating influenza.
Investigators at Burnham Institute for Medical Research identified 295 human cell factors that influenza A strains must harness to infect a cell. The team also found small molecule compounds that act on several of these factors and inhibit viral replication, pointing to new ways to treat flu.
Researchers discovered that a naturally occurring lung lipid, POPG, can prevent RSV infection and inhibit its spread. In cell-culture studies, POPG was shown to block RSV infection, while in mice, it reduced the infection rate by 1700 times.
A team of researchers has identified a human protein called IFITM3 that blocks the replication of H1N1 influenza virus and other viruses. The discovery could lead to the development of more effective antiviral drugs, including prophylactic drugs to slow influenza transmission.
Researchers have developed a comprehensive understanding of the interaction between H1N1 strains and human cells, revealing new targets for therapy and potential tools to speed vaccine production. The studies also identified key proteins involved in viral replication and host response.