Articles tagged with Viral Infections
Researchers at the Trudeau Institute have identified a single protein, omega-1, secreted from schistosome eggs that induces a specific immune response. This discovery may lead to new treatments and therapies for schistosomiasis, one of the most important neglected tropical diseases.
A new study from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia has found that eliminating a specific cell receptor, CAR, prevents infection by a common virus that causes serious diseases in humans. The researchers used genetically engineered mice to demonstrate the critical role of CAR in coxsackievirus infections.
A large study comparing widely used treatments for chronic hepatitis C infection found similar safety and efficacy in achieving long-term viral eradication. However, subgroup analysis revealed that certain approaches may be better suited for women and minorities, with some treatments showing higher success rates in these groups.
A review of past epidemics suggests that early and prolonged school closure can reduce the number of cases at the peak of a flu pandemic, but has limited impact on total cases. School closures are associated with significant social and economic costs, including disruption to healthcare systems and key services.
Researchers from the Helmholtz Center for Infection Research found that Beta-Interferon facilitates faster immune reactions against microbial and viral threats by regulating antigen presentation. Low levels of Beta-Interferon before infection can lead to a stronger immune response, known as priming.
Montana State University researchers study Sulfolobus turreted icosahedral virus (STIV) and its effects on host cells. The virus forms pyramid-like projections on the surface of infected cells, releasing progeny in a previously unknown manner.
Researchers found a negative correlation between birth rates and the timing of rotavirus epidemics. With declining birth rates, outbreaks occur later in the year, particularly in California.
Researchers say a standard calculation for estimating flu deaths may not accurately reflect true figures due to factors like underreporting and varying disease severity. The study highlights the need for more sophisticated data collection and analysis methods to provide healthcare planners with accurate predictions.
Researchers found A/H1N1 virus infectious to pigs and spreading rapidly in a trial pig population. The virus can pass from humans to pigs but not from pigs to other animals.
A team from MIT and the CDC discovered that the new H1N1 strain's surface protein binds to human receptors less effectively than other flu viruses. This restricted binding along with a genetic variation in an H1N1 polymerase enzyme explains why the virus has not spread as efficiently as seasonal flu.
A large meta-analysis found certain HBV DNA mutations associated with HCC development and more prevalent in chronic HBV infection progression. The study may help predict liver cancer risk in patients with HBV infections.
Researchers have developed a new ultra-sensitive detector that can detect respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) at lower levels than current standard assays. The device uses DNA hairpins attached to gold filaments, taking only minutes to produce results and suitable for use in pediatrician's offices.
Scientists discovered two critical biochemical pathways for Ebola virus entry into cells and developed inhibitors to block them. The UTMB team prevented Ebola infection in cell culture experiments, a crucial step towards developing the first therapy for the deadly disease.
A polyomavirus known as MCPyV is associated with fewer metastases and better survival in patients with Merkel cell carcinoma. Long-term survivors of childhood central nervous system malignancies remain at risk for death and are at increasing risk for developing subsequent cancers and chronic medical conditions over time.
Researchers have mapped the structure of an antiviral antibody clamped onto rotavirus protein VP7, revealing intimate details about how it interferes with virus infection. The discovery may lead to the development of a new generation of rotavirus vaccines that are easier to store and administer.
Noroviruses cause the greatest incidence of vomiting and diarrhoea globally, resulting in approximately 200,000 child deaths annually. A new study suggests that targeting sugar chains with sialic acid could prevent virus attachment to cells.
A new study found that fetal exposure to influenza B virus may lead to cognitive problems at age 7 among children later diagnosed with psychosis. The association was not observed in children who did not develop psychotic disorders.
Researchers created a first-ever model that takes into account both direct and indirect transmission of avian influenza viruses among birds. The model reveals that environmental transmission can trigger outbreaks, even when no infected birds are present.
A nationwide French public health campaign from 2002 to 2007 led to a marked reduction of unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions, particularly in children, with a decline of over 25% compared to the preintervention period. The greatest decrease was observed among young children aged 6–11 years.
Researchers at Tulane University are developing detection kits for Lassa viral hemorrhagic fever, which affects 300,000-500,000 people annually in West Africa, causing 5,000 deaths. The $7.07 million NIH grant will help complete the development and commercialization of these kits to aid public health and bioterrorism defense.
A randomized trial found the HPV vaccine to be 91% effective against all four virus strains in women aged 24-45 who hadn't been infected. The vaccine efficacy was lower when including those with pre-existing HPV infection, highlighting the importance of vaccinating susceptible individuals.
A study in mice reveals that type I IFNs compromise the body's ability to mount an effective immune response against bacterial infections after influenza. This finding may lead to new avenues for developing treatments to combat post-influenza bacterial pneumonia.
A study presented at DDW 2009 found that over one-third of US adults have liver disease, with some cases potentially attributed to environmental pollution. Researchers used the NHANES dataset to examine the association between low-level exposure to 111 common pollutants and unexplained liver disease in adults.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered two biochemical signals promoting the development of memory cells in immune cells. These signals, interferon alpha and IL-12, play distinct roles in driving immediate and long-term immunity.
Recent research on H5N1 avian influenza virus reveals its mechanisms, epidemiology, and transmission dynamics. Understanding the host-virus interaction is crucial for developing effective control measures.
Researchers analyzed calling and mobility data from over six million mobile phone users to understand the threat of mobile phone viruses. A highly fragmented market share has hindered outbreaks so far, but predicting that viruses will become a significant threat once a single operating system's market share grows sufficiently large.
Researchers at Cancer Research UK have developed a way to regulate viral activity in cancer cells while minimizing its impact on healthy tissues. By introducing microRNA molecules, they can 'turn off' the virus in vulnerable areas, making it a promising approach for improved cancer treatments and vaccines.
A study found that mice treated with the algae-derived protein Griffithsin had a 100% survival rate after exposure to the SARS coronavirus, whereas untreated mice only survived 30%. The protein alters sugar molecules on the virus's envelope, preventing it from causing disease.
A mathematical model predicts that face protection measures can significantly reduce the spread of influenza. The use of N95 respirators and surgical masks is effective in preventing the flu due to their filters that keep out 98% of the virus.
A computer model developed by four US national laboratories helps airport authorities screen passengers for pandemic influenza, estimating false negatives and assessing risk. The simulation suggests key factors to reduce the spread of disease, including pre-flight screening, symptom testing on arrival, and advances in diagnostics.
A study from Northwestern University finds a strong link between the cancer drug rituximab and progressive multifocal leukoencephalitis (PML), a swiftly moving and often fatal viral brain infection. The study reports 57 cases of PML in patients with anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, or lymphoma who took rituximab.
Veterinarians are at increased risk of zoonotic infection with various pathogens, including swine influenza and avian influenza viruses. A review of medical literature found that veterinarians often fail to use recommended personal protective equipment due to discomfort or lack of availability.
Research suggests that avian influenza viruses struggle to grow and spread in the human nose due to its cooler temperature, making it less likely to cause respiratory illness. The study also found that mutated viruses with proteins from avian influenza viruses are unlikely to thrive at human nose temperatures.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict immune responses to influenza A viruses, including novel strains like H1N1. The model suggests that prolonged infection limits T cell production and antigen presentation, making antiviral therapy most effective within two days after infection.
A UC Davis team plans to extend the capabilities of a powerful new imaging tool called DTEM, enabling scientists to observe and record biological processes at the molecular level. The instrument could achieve resolutions 100 times greater than currently attainable for live processes.
The University of California, Irvine has been awarded a $45 million grant over five years to conduct infectious disease research. The grant is the campus's largest ever and will focus on improving detection, treatment, and vaccine development for bioterrorism agents and emerging infections.
Researchers found that antibody interference can hinder vaccine effectiveness, proposing a new approach to design more powerful vaccines. They suggest intentionally developing a vaccine strain that differs from the anticipated infectious virus at specific sites.
Researchers found that both swine flu subtypes cause respiratory symptoms and lung lesions in weanling pigs. H1N1-infected pigs developed more severe disease, with approximately a third of the lung affected.
Researchers found that the virus is spreading consistently with early stages of a pandemic, fatal in around 4 in 1,000 cases, and likely to cause secondary cases for every infected person. The epidemic is thought to have started in Mexico on February 15, 2009, with 23,000 people infected and 91 deaths by the end of April.
The Lancet Editorial highlights the lack of evidence for some swine flu interventions, including culling pigs, restricting pork trade, and distributing facemasks. Experts emphasize the need for timely and accurate information dissemination to healthcare professionals, particularly in pandemic preparedness.
Research suggests that the new swine flu virus may induce a cytokine storm in otherwise healthy adults, causing fatal damage to lungs. Historical evidence also supports the possibility of severe infection and poor outcomes in young, healthy individuals.
Studies found that even mildly premature infants have a higher risk of medically attended RSV infection, especially those exposed to supplemental oxygen. Researchers detected an increased risk even in babies born at 37 weeks.
A recent study found that even mild prematurity increases risk of medically attended RSV infection, with highest risks among babies born between 33-36 weeks gestational age. This research contributes to growing evidence that late-preterm infants face greater morbidity and healthcare costs.
A human monoclonal antibody developed by Massachusetts Biologic Laboratories (MBL) neutralizes the Hepatitis C virus and prevents infection in a pre-clinical animal model. The antibody could be used as a therapy shortly before and after transplant surgery to prevent re-infection.
Researchers found that patients with chronic hepatitis C who have achieved a sustained viral response often still carry miniscule amounts of the virus in their bodies. These trace remainders are thought to be infectious, posing a risk to others.
A parasitic bacterium may reduce mosquito lifespan and limit dengue fever transmission. Infected mosquitoes become more active as they age, but their activity levels don't increase further.
Researchers found that combining workplace non-attendance, school closure, isolating infected family members, and reducing community contact can significantly reduce the rate of development and overall burden of influenza epidemics. Interventions must be introduced within 2 weeks of the first case to prevent an epidemic developing.
A Kansas State University researcher has found that the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic virus and the current swine influenza virus are closely related, with the former adapting to pigs and resulting in the latter. The study suggests that pigs may have played a role in maintaining and spreading the virus.
Researchers found that after reassortment with a human influenza virus, an avian flu virus requires relatively few mutations to spread rapidly between mammals by respiratory droplets. This process is similar to the formation of the current swine flu outbreak, suggesting a potential link between avian and human influenza viruses.
A novel H1N1 swine influenza A virus has spread rapidly around the world, infecting over 60 people and causing seven deaths. The WHO has activated its emergency response room to coordinate global efforts to contain the outbreak.
A DNA-based therapeutic vaccination has shown antiviral effects in patients with chronic hepatitis C, with 67% experiencing significant reductions in viral load. The vaccine, developed using naked DNA delivered by electroporation, was found to induce immune responses and activate the host T cell response in patients.
Researchers have identified 116 host factors essential for successful dengue infection in fruit flies, with at least one also necessary for mosquito infection. The study opens doors to new ways to prevent or treat the disease, which infects millions globally each year.
Researchers have identified cellular components in mosquitoes and humans that the dengue virus uses to multiply, paving the way for potential treatments. The study found 116 host factors, including 42 with human counterparts, which may serve as targets for new drugs.
Researchers discovered Nosema ceranae, a Microsporidia parasite, is the primary cause of honey bee colony depopulation syndrome in professional apiaries. Treating infected colonies with flumagillin resulted in complete recovery.
A groundbreaking CSIRO study has defined the period when horses are most likely to shed Hendra virus, enabling early diagnosis and prevention of transmission. This breakthrough aims to reduce the risk of spread to both humans and susceptible horses.
The recent special edition of Virology journal explores the past, present, and future of small DNA tumor viruses, including polyomaviruses, adenoviruses, and papillomaviruses. These viruses have led to fundamental discoveries in basic biology, unraveling complex aspects of host cells.
A study found that periodontal disease caused by Porphyromonas gingivalis can reactivate latent HIV-1 in infected individuals. The bacteria induce histone acetylation, leading to HIV-1 reactivation. Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial for preventing AIDS progression.
Researchers at MDC Berlin-Buch discovered a mechanism to prevent viral myocarditis by blocking the Coxsackie-adenovirus-receptor. Genetically engineered mice without this receptor were protected from cardiac infection caused by the Coxsackievirus, showing that autoimmune response may not be the primary cause of disease process.
Researchers found that cannabinoids like THC have anticancer effects on human brain cancer cells by inducing autophagy. Additionally, lithium was shown to protect hippocampal nerve cells in mice treated with cranial radiation therapy, suggesting it may be a new approach to reducing long-term neurological side effects.
Astrocytes, star-shaped nerve cells, use specific machinery and recognition molecules to recognize viral invaders and initiate inflammation. This understanding may lead to new treatment strategies for viral infections of the brain and spinal cord.