Articles tagged with Viral Infections
Eleven organ transplant recipients were hospitalized with West Nile virus encephalitis, developing neurological damage and some surviving despite significant problems. The study highlights the risk of WNV infection in immunosuppressed individuals receiving long-term immune system-suppressing drugs.
Researchers found that preschoolers exposed to common childhood infections are less likely to develop Hodgkin's lymphoma in adulthood. This contradicts previous studies linking high socioeconomic status and delayed infection with the Epstein-Barr virus to increased disease risk.
Scientists at UCSF created a large fragment of the normal prion protein, which they then folded into an abnormal shape to induce infection. The study demonstrates that misfolding a particular segment of the normal prion protein is sufficient to transform it into infectious prions. This finding provides new insights into spontaneous pri...
Researchers at NIH/National Institute on Aging created synthetic prions that caused neurological disease in mice, distinct from other strains of prions. The study sheds light on the conversion process leading to dementing diseases like Creutzfeldt-Jakob and Alzheimer's.
Neglected diseases, such as onchocerciasis and Chagas' disease, can be controlled with cost-effective interventions. Investing in these efforts could bring long-lasting benefits and reduce morbidity, particularly for children, if done efficiently from Global Fund resources.
A University of Toronto study found that West Nile virus encephalitis is a common neurological manifestation in hospitalized patients, often leading to severe neuromuscular dysfunction. The study's authors recommend electrodiagnostic testing for unexplained weakness and critically ill patients to rule out acute flaccid paralysis syndrome.
Researchers have discovered that Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) plays a crucial role in coordinating the immune response to viral infections. In this study, Dr. Marco Colonna and colleagues found that TLR9 recognizes viruses in immune cells and activates natural killer cell responses.
Researchers found that lung transplant patients who develop community-acquired respiratory viral infections are at twice the risk of developing bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome. Additionally, a study identified unique tumor signatures that can predict lung cancer death within 12 months with an accuracy rate of 87%.
The NIAID is conducting a clinical trial to test the safety and effectiveness of Omr-IgG-am, an antibody-based product derived from Israeli donors, in treating West Nile virus infection. The study aims to provide preliminary data on the treatment's effectiveness against encephalitis, a brain inflammation caused by WNV infection.
A call has been made to invest in preventing 'neglected diseases' such as onchocerciasis and Chagas' disease, which can be controlled or eliminated with proven interventions. Investing a fraction of the annual requirements of the Global Fund could bring long-lasting benefits for millions of people.
Researchers have identified a potential molecular target to halt the spread of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common cause of cervical cancer. By targeting specific RNA molecules that produce proteins driving cellular proliferation, HPV-infected cells may be eradicated, offering new treatment options.
A study found that HPV DNA is present in tumors of HNSCC patients, suggesting a role for the virus in early cancer development. The findings support the idea that HNSCCs can be subdivided into two genetically distinct categories, one driven by environmental factors and the other by HPV infection.
Researchers discovered a link between respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and asthma in mice, showing that an anti-RSV antibody could decrease the risk of developing asthma. The study suggests that treatments against RSV may reduce asthma-related complications in children.
Researchers have developed an intranasal SARS vaccine that protects African green monkeys from infection with a single dose, delivering the vaccine directly into the respiratory tract. The vaccine targets the SARS spike protein and induces neutralizing antibodies against the virus.
Researchers have successfully developed a human SARS immunisation in animal studies, showing that monkeys vaccinated with the SARS vaccine had antibodies to the virus and no evidence of viral shedding. In contrast, control group monkeys without vaccination showed significant viral shedding after infection.
Researchers found that a harmless virus can mutate quickly and evade the immune system's defenses in mice with suppressed immunity. The study suggests that similar mutations may occur in humans with weakened immune systems, leading to severe disease.
Airborne viruses were detected in 32% of office building air filters, with higher carbon dioxide levels linked to increased exposure risk. Researchers also found that healthcare workers treating SARS patients were at high risk of developing the disease due to endotracheal intubation.
A study led by Duke University Medical Center researchers found African-Americans have a significantly lower response rate to treatment for chronic hepatitis C. Only 19% of African-American patients responded to the drug combination, while 52% of non-Hispanic white patients achieved a sustained virologic response.
A new study found that a single daily dose of Valcyte is equally effective as three times daily Cytovene in preventing CMV in kidney transplant patients. This simplified regimen may improve care and quality of life for transplant recipients by reducing medication complexity.
A study found that the overall prevalence of chlamydial infection was 4.19% among young adults aged 18-26, with higher rates among women, black Americans, and those in the south. Gonorrhea prevalence was also significant, with co-infection rates being low.
Researchers discovered that certain tobacco plant species are resistant to the cowpea mosaic virus. The virus spreads through a plant's vascular system, causing damage and death, but the specific channels it uses to transmit the virus were identified. This knowledge could lead to strategies for creating virus-resistant crops.
Dhanasekaran has received the Raymond W. Sarber Award for his research on avian pneumovirus and Newcastle disease virus, which could lead to the development of recombinant vaccines against these diseases. His work aims to improve health and economic well-being in humans and animals.
The US is likely to see an increase in West Nile virus cases in California this year, thanks to a combination of mosquito population, agricultural methods, and bird migration patterns. The state's diverse geography and climate will also contribute to the spread of the disease.
The NIAID-developed DNA vaccine significantly reduced SARS virus levels in infected mice, with antibodies alone responsible for the dramatic reduction. This breakthrough demonstrates the effectiveness of a novel vaccine approach against SARS, paving the way for future human clinical trials.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a potent way to shut down viruses by introducing harmless molecules that mimic the virus's growth machinery, outperforming traditional antiviral strategies in inhibiting viral growth and creating drug-resistant strains.
A study suggests that viral infections like RSV can increase the expression of Toll-4 receptors on airway cells, leading to a heightened response to endotoxin exposure and potentially causing asthma exacerbations. This increased sensitivity could also make airways more responsive to other environmental exposures.
The article discusses the ongoing threat of rabies in Africa and Asia, where dog rabies epidemics hinder control efforts. Mary Warrell highlights the importance of addressing this issue through improved surveillance and vaccination methods.
UCSD School of Medicine researchers have identified a mechanism leading to life-threatening infections, where PKR protein causes macrophages to die, allowing bacteria to spread. The discovery may help develop inhibitors for PKR, controlling nasty infections and reducing flu-related deaths.
A study of 299 smokers found that nicotine nasal spray and skin patch both led to similar abstinence rates after six months. However, certain groups achieved higher success rates with one form over the other based on their ethnic background, weight and nicotine dependence level.
Researchers at NIAID have found that mouse immune systems produce antibodies capable of single-handedly neutralizing the SARS virus. This discovery confirms that vaccines triggering antibodies to the SARS virus are on the right track, and could lead to a faster development of effective vaccines or antiviral drugs.
Researchers found evidence of human herpesvirus 6 in tissues of 25 out of 35 children with Langerhans cell histiocytosis, a rare condition affecting bones and multiple organ systems. The study suggests the virus interacts with an underlying predisposition to the disease, potentially leading to new treatments and diagnostic tests.
Researchers have identified a dual strategy used by viruses to subvert the immune system, involving the targeting of hematopoietic progenitors and inhibition of dendritic cell maturation. This study sheds light on the mechanisms of viral immunosuppression, enabling better understanding of immune evasion tactics.
In 2003, US blood banks screened nearly 6 million donations for West Nile virus, identifying over 1,000 infected units and removing them from the supply. The screenings reduced the risk of transmission associated with blood transfusions, highlighting the effectiveness of proactive measures in preventing disease spread.
A blood test measuring procalcitonin levels can guide antibiotic treatment for lower respiratory tract infections, reducing unnecessary use and promoting more targeted therapy. The study found that withholding antibiotics based on procalcitonin thresholds did not compromise health outcomes in patients with viral infections.
Researchers found that younger children and smaller children have a lower risk of infection due to higher T lymphocyte counts, while low dendritic cell numbers correlate with increased risk. A closer cord blood match also reduces the risk of infection.
Researchers at Immerge have identified that human-tropic PERV is acquired during life, rather than being present in the germ-line DNA of mini-swine. The study found no viruses in the germ-line DNA that could infect human cells, paving the way for safer xenotransplantation procedures.
The researchers solved the structure of the hemagglutinin protein, a crucial component in understanding the 1918 flu outbreak. The study reveals that the virus likely originated from birds and its unique surface proteins made it particularly deadly to young adults.
Scientists at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have identified a human monoclonal antibody that blocks SARS virus infection by neutralizing its entry into cultured cells. The antibody, isolated from a collection of 27 billion antibodies, shows promise in animal tests and could be developed for clinical trials to prevent and treat the disease.
A study by Singapore investigators found that SARS infection occurred in healthcare workers with normal chest X-rays, even those not directly exposed to patients. The researchers detected SARS antibodies in 8 out of 112 exposed workers, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
Researchers at NIST and University of Maryland discovered a molecular mechanism involving RNA structure changes that may play a role in HIV-1 viral assembly. This finding could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs by targeting these structural changes.
A recent avian influenza outbreak in Vietnam underscores the importance of veterinary science and animal husbandry in preventing human pandemics. The article emphasizes that animal experts must receive adequate funding and resources to combat emerging diseases.
The Ebola virus has unleashed several lethal epidemics in Central Africa, leading to haemorrhagic fever and high mortality rates. The virus is transmitted by direct contact with infected animals or their carcasses, resulting in a rapid decline in great ape populations.
Researchers discovered that a viral infection can redirect the immune response away from pancreatic beta cells, reducing autoaggressive CD8 T cells. This approach could lead to new treatments for type 1 diabetes by utilizing proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines produced during viral infections.
A study of 100 patients with abnormally high liver enzymes found that 57 had HCV RNA in their liver biopsies, suggesting occult infection. HCV RNA was also detected in peripheral-blood mononuclear cells from 40% of patients, potentially allowing for easier detection and monitoring.
Researchers at MCG are studying Campylobacter jejuni to understand its effects on the human body. They aim to develop a vaccine and improve prevention methods for this bacterial infection, which causes bloody diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain in millions of Americans each year.
Researchers have determined the 7.6-angstrom scale structure of a reovirus, visualizing its molecular composition and internal workings. The discovery may help understand how the virus manufactures genetic weapons to infect cells, potentially leading to new treatments and applications.
A new drug, rNAPC2, has shown promising results in treating Ebola by slowing coagulopathy and death in primates. The treatment targets the disease process rather than replicating the virus, offering a potential breakthrough in combating the deadly disease.
The first human trial of a DNA Ebola vaccine opened at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda. Twenty-seven volunteers will receive either the investigational vaccine or a placebo injection over two months and be followed for one year.
A new investigational vaccine to prevent hepatitis C has been tested in humans for the first time, offering a promising breakthrough against the deadly virus. The study aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of three different strengths of the Chiron Corporation's vaccine.
Researchers developed a hardware platform called FPX that scans for malware signatures in parallel, allowing it to scan every byte of network traffic at an unprecedented rate. This technology can quarantine viruses and worms within sub-networks, protecting thousands of users with just a few devices.
Researchers at the US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases have developed a hantavirus vaccine that elicited a potent neutralizing antibody response in rhesus macaques. The vaccine, which uses a naked DNA approach, also provided protection against hamster infection when administered after exposure.
The study reveals that retroviral protein p12 stimulates the growth and proliferation of immune cells known as T lymphocytes by producing interleukin 2 (IL-2). This finding supports the view that HTLV-1 virus replicates mainly by causing infected cells to divide and proliferate.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a novel flu treatment that can eliminate symptoms by targeting the overactive immune response. The treatment, which works by selectively reducing the response of active T white blood cells, has shown promising results in mice and may offer new hope for pandemic prevention.
The Blanke Lab will conduct fundamental research about anthrax and methods to neutralize its impact, with a goal of generating novel therapeutics and vaccines. This project is part of the Regional Center of Excellence for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases Research, bringing together leading researchers from various disciplines.
A new HPV vaccine targeting high-risk types could prevent up to 84% of cervical cancer cases. Testing a cocktail of these virus types could provide sufficient guidance for clinical decisions and future screening programmes.
The NIAID has launched a clinical trial to test an immunoglobulin product containing antibodies to West Nile virus (WNV) in treating severe WNV encephalitis. The study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of this treatment in preventing death or neurologic disability.
Studies with yeast prions show that small mutations can cause transmission barriers, potentially explaining species barriers for mammalian prions. The findings suggest a new approach to treating disorders like Alzheimer's by influencing toxic protein folding.
The Mayo Clinic Proceedings has released an early review of West Nile virus to aid clinicians and the public. The review, written by Priya Sampathkumar, M.D., provides the most current information on the disease's epidemiology, virology, transmission, management, and prevention in humans and animals.
Researchers at Purdue University have captured the clearest image yet of the T4 virus's docking bay, a complex structure that allows it to infect its host. This breakthrough could lead to new strategies for stopping viral infections and developing novel antibiotics.
A live but weakened virus is being tested as a potential West Nile virus vaccine, with promising results showing high levels of protective antibodies in monkeys. The vaccine has been shown to be effective in preventing the disease-causing virus while triggering a strong immune response.