Articles tagged with Viral Infections
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.
A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens has revealed that a majority of the global population has been infected with three recently discovered human polyomaviruses, including KIV, WU, and MCV. The study, which tested over 2,200 anonymous donor blood samples, found that infection with these viruses occurs early in childhood.
Braunschweig Helmholtz researchers found that host genetic factors significantly impact the progression of influenza A virus infections. The study discovered strong differences in disease outcomes among mice with genetically identical immune systems, suggesting a genetic basis for varying responses to the flu virus.
A new study found that African Americans have lower rates of successful hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapy due to differences in antiviral activity induced by interferon. Early viral kinetic measurements within 24-48 hours of treatment can predict ultimate response rates.
A Phase II clinical trial found that the vaccine showed efficacy in mothers, with a significantly lower rate of CMV infection. The study used an experimental vaccine made from glycoprotein B and included an adjuvant to improve immune response.
A new experimental vaccine has shown promising results in preventing cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in infants, reducing the risk by 50% compared to a saline injection. The vaccine was given to 441 CMV-negative women and found to be safe with minimal side effects.
A joint study from Helmholtz-Centre and immunologists found that flu infection facilitates and intensifies pneumonia bacteria infections. Researchers discovered that lack of immune cells does not cause increased susceptibility to superinfections.
Scientists have identified platelets as a contributor to organ failure in patients with sepsis. The study found that granzyme B production in platelets can cause cell death, leading to organ failure. Researchers hope this discovery will lead to better treatments and potentially even prevention of organ failure.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College discovered that chloroquine is a highly active inhibitor of infection by Hendra and Nipah viruses. The drug blocks the action of cathepsin L, an enzyme essential for virus growth and maturation.
Researchers have developed new techniques to quickly identify bacterial infections and determine the best antibiotic treatment. A nanoparticle-based method can detect bacterial strains in hours, while scientists also uncovered genetic basis of morphological differences in anthrax letter material.
Researchers developed small molecules targeting Hsp90 in mitochondria to induce tumor cell death. This combinatorial approach may be more effective than targeting single signaling pathways. Gene therapy also restored muscle strength in a mouse model of muscular dystrophy by anchoring nNOS to the sarcolemma.
UAB researchers have developed a new method to produce and study HPV-18, which could lead to a better understanding of how the virus functions and causes diseases. The new approach allows for the reproduction of the entire infection cycle of HPV-18 in primary human skin cells, providing opportunities to understand its molecular mechani...
A briefcase-sized kit, called PADLOC, aims to detect plant diseases rapidly and accurately, allowing farmers to take action to prevent damage. The kit uses nanotechnology to measure microorganisms and provide real-time recommendations for farmers.
A study by researchers at the University of Illinois reveals that RIG-I, a cellular protein, can detect viral RNA and trigger an immune response in every cell type. The protein uses two major parts to distinguish between viral and self-RNA, using a unique 'triphosphate' tag.
Researchers at Rhode Island Hospital completed a study on flu transmission to better understand the impact of infection control measures during a possible flu pandemic. The study found that pre-symptomatic transmission of influenza may be more significant than previously thought, and that small-particle aerosols from infected individua...
Research found that IgA antibodies against HCV structural antigens are associated with necro-inflammatory activity, suggesting a potential marker for histological activity in chronic HCV infection. The study also revealed a broad and vigorous humoral response in chronic HCV infection, contrasting with weak cellular immune responses.
A NASA study successfully predicted the 2006-2007 Rift Valley fever outbreak in northeast Africa using a blend of climate measurements and satellite data. The prediction gave public health officials up to six weeks' notice, allowing them to implement disease mitigation measures and lessen human impact.
Scientists have turned a benign adeno-associated virus into a highly infectious form that can effectively deliver a gene to lung cells, potentially curing cystic fibrosis. The new strain was created by forcing evolution to increase infectivity several hundred-fold, overcoming previous limitations in gene therapy.
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch discovered a major virulence factor for Rift Valley fever virus that has a dual mechanism. The protein NSs promotes viral replication by attacking a host cell protein, preventing interferon beta production and allowing the virus to replicate unchecked.
A study by Helmholtz Center researchers reveals that acute hepatitis B infection triggers chronic liver disease through altered T helper cell function. The team identified specific genes and immune mechanisms involved in the development of chronic hepatitis B, shedding light on potential diagnostic markers and treatment options.
A study analyzed histologic features of liver biopsies from 86 infants with intrahepatic neonatal cholestasis (IHNC) and found no significant differences among different etiologies. However, a significant difference was observed in IHNC of infectious etiology, presenting with more severe erythropoiesis.
Researchers discovered that mosquitoes use RNA interference to combat dengue virus, allowing the virus to multiply and be transmitted to humans. Genetic manipulation of this response could help stop dengue virus transmission by Aedes aegypti.