1918 and 2009 H1N1 flu probably not spread by birds
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.
Viral Infections
Articles tagged with Viral Infections
Iowa State University researcher discovers Ebola's deadly secret
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.
Appendicitis may be related to viral infections
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.
Treatment for chronic hepatitis C: A phase II study
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.
An etiological role for H. pylori in autoimmune gastritis
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 ...
The viruses within -- and what keeps them there
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.
Mosquito hunters invent better, cheaper, DIY disease weapon
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.
Scientists create early warning system to defend rare Jersey cows from continental disease
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.
Natural compound blocks hepatitis C infection
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.
Scripps Florida scientists show 'lifeless' prions capable of evolutionary change and adaptation
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.
Severity of H1N1 influenza linked to presence of Streptococcus pneumoniae
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.
Children more likely to catch swine flu, says new research
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.
Short-term school closures may worsen flu pandemics, Pitt study finds
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.
Researchers find new patterns in H1N1 deaths
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.
Compound found to safely counter deadly bird flu
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.
How flu succeeds
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.
Naturally occurring lipid blocks RSV infection in lungs
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.
Researchers find human protein that prevents H1N1 influenza infection
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.
Studies generate hundreds of leads in the fight against the H1N1 pandemic
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.
New biological route for swine flu to human infections
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have identified a new genetic mutation in the H1N1 flu virus that enables it to replicate in humans. The SR polymorphism mutation enhances polymerase activity and potentially pathogenesis of the virus in humans.
Scripps Research scientists reveal key structure from ebola virus
Scripps Research scientists have determined the structure of the Ebola virus's critical protein VP35, which blocks the human immune system. The discovery may lead to new drug therapies and vaccines for Ebola infection.
Fast, accurate urine test for pneumonia possible, study finds
Researchers at UC Davis have developed a fast and accurate urine test for pneumonia using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The test identifies a unique chemical 'fingerprint' in the urine of patients infected with Streptococcus pneumoniae, distinguishing it from other types of pneumonia and noninfectious lung diseases.
West Nile virus infection may persist in kidneys years after initial infection
A new study finds that West Nile virus can remain in the kidneys of infected individuals for years, potentially causing chronic symptoms and kidney failure. Researchers collected urine samples from patients with severe initial infections and detected viral RNA for at least six years following infection.
Grooving down the helix
Researchers discovered that proteins locate genetic information in DNA by sliding down the double helix, like traveling along a screw. This finding validates a recent theory and could lead to new ways to alter DNA-binding protein behavior.
Species down, disease up
New research suggests that biodiversity loss and habitat destruction can increase the incidence and distribution of infectious diseases in humans. Studies show that extinction of plant and animal species can lead to a rise in new diseases, such as West Nile Virus, and even re-emergence of diseases thought to be in decline, like malaria.
Panel of multiple sclerosis experts provides best practice treatment recommendations for Tysabri
A panel of MS experts provides comprehensive recommendations for selecting and managing patients with MS receiving TYSABRI. The guidelines emphasize the need to weigh treatment benefits against potential risks, including PML and serious adverse events.
Etiologic factors of gastric cardiac adenocarcinoma among men in Taiwan
Research in Taiwan found working after meals and H. pylori infection increase GCA risk, while healthy diet may reduce it. Healthy dietary habits and eradication of H. pylori are crucial for prevention.
Alarming trend -- antiviral therapy to treat hepatitis C is declining in the US
Research suggests that only half of Americans with hepatitis C virus infection are aware of their diagnosis, leading to a decline in antiviral therapy treatment rates. By 2030, less than 15% of liver-related deaths from HCV will be prevented by antiviral therapy if the trend continues.
Amid the flu epidemic, don't forget RSV in young children
A study by Boston Children's Hospital reveals that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes significantly more acute respiratory illnesses, ED visits, and hospitalizations among young children compared to seasonal flu. RSV-related illnesses lead to increased missed workdays for parents.
On the trail of a vaccine for Lyme disease: Yale researchers target tick saliva
Yale researchers have discovered that a protein found in tick saliva helps protect mice from developing Lyme disease. The findings may spur development of a new vaccine against infection from Lyme disease, which is spread through tick bites.
New research helps explain why bird flu has not caused a pandemic
Bird flu viruses require two simultaneous genetic mutations to infect humans, making human-to-human transmission unlikely. The study suggests that H5N1's high mortality rate in humans is due to its inability to infect the right cells, increasing the odds of it being less likely to cause a pandemic.
Toward explaining why hepatitis B hits men harder than women
Researchers found abnormal forms of apolipoprotein A-I proteins in the livers and blood of infected male mice, but not females. These proteins may provide important markers for tracking hepatitis B progression and help explain the gender disparity in the disease's severity.
La Jolla Institute finds previous seasonal flu infections may provide some level of H1N1 immunity
Researchers at the La Jolla Institute found that previous influenza infections can provide some level of immunity to the H1N1 'swine' flu. The study suggests that this pre-existing immunity may make the disease less severe in the general population, reducing its impact.
Immune system of healthy adults may be better prepared than expected to fight 2009 H1N1 influenza
A new study found that healthy adults have a level of protective immune memory against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. This immunity can blunt the severity of infection and provide some protection. The findings may explain why younger children are more severely affected by the pandemic.
Study shows link between influenza virus and fever
A study by University of Bonn researchers has found a link between the influenza virus and fever, revealing that the immune system's RIG-I protein plays a key role in triggering high temperatures. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating severe viral infections.
£7.5 million ($12.6 million) collaborations lead UK research community's response to H1N1 pandemic
The UK research community has secured £7.5 million in funding to study the development and spread of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009. The projects aim to understand how the virus mutates, jumps species barriers, and causes disease in humans and pigs.
Grant awarded to improve the security of mobile devices and cellular networks
Researchers at Georgia Tech are developing methods to identify and remotely repair infected mobile devices and improve the security of cellular networks. They plan to investigate whether service providers can detect infected devices on their networks and will build a test bed to simulate how devices communicate over a network.
Newly discovered fat molecule: An undersea killer with an upside
Scientists at Rutgers University and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution discover a previously unknown lipid that causes rapid death of phytoplankton in the North Atlantic. The lipid may also hold promise in cancer research by inducing programmed cell death in healthy cells.
NIAID announces new human immunology research awards to help fight emerging infectious diseases
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has awarded approximately $208 million to two programs that support research on the human immune response to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. This funding aims to identify new vaccines and drug targets, with a focus on developing prevention tools and therapeutics.
Report on H1N1 cases in California shows hospitalization can occur at all ages, with many severe
The study found that hospitalization and death from H1N1 can occur at any age, with severe cases reported in 30% of hospitalized patients over 50. The median age of all cases was 27 years, and underlying conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia were common among severe cases.
Immune therapy can protect against or treat later lymphoma
Researchers developed an immune system cell therapy that targets Epstein-Barr virus, providing long-term protection to patients with severely compromised immune systems. The therapy, effective for up to nine years, was found to prevent lymphomas associated with EBV infection in over 100 patients.
Breakthrough in fight against Hendra virus
A breakthrough in the fight against Hendra virus has been achieved with the development of a treatment that shows great potential to save lives. The treatment, administered after exposure to Nipah virus, protected animals from disease in a model.
Modified crops reveal hidden cost of resistance
Researchers found genetically modified squash are more susceptible to bacterial wilt disease due to increased feeding by cucumber beetles. The study suggests that the fitness advantage of virus-resistant crops comes at a price, with unintended consequences for biodiversity.
Rethinking the antibody-dependent enhancement dengue hemorrhagic fever model
A new study published in PLoS Medicine reexamines the development of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), contradicting the long-held antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) model. Researchers found that maternal antibodies protect infants from full-spectrum dengue disease, and a higher weight-for-age is associated with DHF risk.
Will genomics help prevent the next pandemic?
The PLOS collection explores how genomics can provide insights into emerging infectious diseases. Genomics research has the potential to track the spread of disease agents, develop vaccines, and combat pathogens more effectively. This could lead to a better preparedness for and response to biological threats.
UC Davis researchers identify dominant chemical that attracts mosquitoes to humans
Researchers at UC Davis have identified nonanal as the dominant odor naturally produced in humans and birds that attracts Culex mosquitoes, a key step towards controlling mosquito-borne diseases. The study also found that combining nonanal with carbon dioxide increases trap captures by over 50%.
Important new novel 2009 H1N1 flu advisory for cardiopulmonary transplantation
The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation issues an advisory for cardiopulmonary transplantation programs to address novel 2009 H1N1 influenza. The advisory provides guidelines for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of H1N1 flu in transplant recipients and donors.
The bowels of infection
Researchers found that latent CMV infection exacerbated intestinal inflammation and increased immune responses to normally harmless bacteria, contributing to IBD severity. Latent CMV infection may modulate mucosal immunity and predispose individuals to developing severe acute colitis and subsequently IBD.
Widely used virus assay shown unreliable when compared to other methods
A widely used virus assay has been shown to be inaccurate in detecting and measuring replicating viral RNA. Researchers at Virginia Tech developed a novel assay that detects anti-genomic copies of the viral genome, which is more accurate than existing methods.
Major swine flu outbreak at US Air Force Academy, unique opportunity to study virus behavior
A recent large-scale swine flu outbreak at the US Air Force Academy provided valuable insights into the natural behavior of the nH1N1 virus, including shedding patterns. The study found that viable virus shedding occurred in about one quarter of confirmed patients and persisted even after symptom-free periods.
Treatment for inflammatory bowel disease increases the risk of infection-related cancers
A cohort study of 19,486 patients with inflammatory bowel disease found a significant increased risk of lymphoma associated with thiopurine use. The absolute cumulative risk remains low in young patients, but elderly patients and prolonged treatment periods warrant further investigation.
MedImmune to present data on RSV and influenza at 2009 AAP National Conference and Exhibition
MedImmune will present four abstracts on RSV and influenza, including research on the burden of RSV on pediatric health and innovative solutions to prevent illness. The presentations focus on high-risk populations, such as children with congenital heart disease and late-preterm infants.
JCI online early table of contents: Oct. 12, 2009
Researchers have identified a counterbalancing role for the phosphorylation of alpha-synuclein amino acid 125 in nerve cell protection against alpha-synuclein-mediated toxicity. Higher levels of this phosphorylated form were found to decrease toxic soluble oligomers and protect against Parkinson's disease symptoms.
Immune cells predict outcome of West Nile virus infection
Researchers found that high Treg levels protect against severe West Nile virus disease in humans and mice. Tregs suppress the function of other immune cells, preventing lethal infection.
UBC researchers identify key behavior of immune response to Listeria
A UBC research team has identified dendritic cells as a crucial part of the immune system's defense against bacterial infections. The study reveals that dendritic cells use cross-presentation to activate the immune system, and deactivating this process can lead to severe compromise in fighting Listeria infections.
Keeping hepatitis C virus at bay after a liver transplant
Researchers at Hiroshima University developed a method to temporarily control HCV levels in patients receiving new livers. Activated immune cells from donor livers were infused into patients, reducing viral activity despite immunosuppressive treatment. Further studies aim to improve this approach.
Parasite bacteria may help fight spread of mosquito-borne diseases
Infecting mosquitoes with Wolbachia parasite wMelPop reduces transmission of lymphatic filariasis by up to 85% and boosts mosquito immune system. Researchers aim to introduce this strain into other mosquito species to combat diseases such as malaria.
LSUHSC researcher identifies new target to prevent fatal flu lung complication
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have identified interleukin-17 (IL-17) as a potential therapeutic target to prevent acute lung injury from influenza infection. Blocking IL-17 signaling may reduce inflammation and lung damage, offering new hope for flu-related complications.
DARPA awards Duke $19.5 million to detect viral infection before symptoms appear
Researchers at Duke University have made significant progress in developing a portable, easy-to-use diagnostic device that can reveal who is infected with an upper respiratory virus before symptoms appear. The device uses advanced genomic and statistical tools to detect changes in gene expression, known as a 'signature' of infection.
UH Manoa researcher examines possible implications of daily commute and mosquito-borne diseases
Daily commuting patterns in mega-cities may contribute to the resurgence of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever. Researchers suggest looking beyond traditional transmission clusters and considering novel ways to control community transmission.