Articles tagged with Viral Infections
Scientists have found that lung-resident memory B cells, critical for pulmonary immunity, require interferon-gamma produced by T follicular helper cells to differentiate. These long-lived immune cells migrate to the lungs from draining lymph nodes and lie in wait to react quickly to future infections.
Accelerometer sensors can detect sickness behavior in wild boar, allowing for early detection of African Swine Fever. The study found that infected boars were 10-20% less active daily than healthy ones, making this technology a potential tool for disease control and prevention.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a way to improve immunological memory produced by T cells in response to influenza infection, potentially leading to more effective vaccines and treatments. The study found that manipulating a molecular signaling pathway can strengthen and prolong the immune response.
Scientists have identified a molecule that effectively inhibits heparanase activity related to the herpes simplex virus, reducing its spread on human cells. The discovery is an important step towards developing a non-toxic heparanase inhibitor for clinical use.
Babies with more mature gut microbiota at one year old are less likely to develop allergy-related wheeze or asthma. The study, which followed 1074 babies from birth to four years old, found that increased maturity of the gut microbiota was associated with a lower risk of these conditions.
Researchers developed a long-lasting skin coating agent that kills pathogens on the hands, boosting the natural hand barrier. The agent retained high antimicrobial activity even two hours after application, and reduced survival time of coronaviruses and influenza viruses.
Researchers found that hepatitis C treatment improved response to hepatitis B vaccine in individuals who previously didn't respond. The study recommends checking for hepatitis B immune protection and offering vaccination after treatment.
Researchers discovered a subtype of avian flu virus is undergoing mutational changes that could increase its risk of being passed on to humans. The study found the virus can cause severe animal infections and be transmitted through airborne droplets.
University of Louisville researchers have received a five-year, $11.7 million National Institutes of Health grant to investigate the connection between microorganisms and disease. The study will focus on various chronic conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, diabetes, periodontitis, and colorectal cancer.
SARS-CoV-2's nucleocapsid protein (N) uses human body temperature to replicate, binding to RNA motifs at specific spatial folds. The study reveals new functions and potential targets for antiviral drugs.
A new study reveals that using big data and machine learning can improve antimicrobial resistance surveillance in livestock production. The research found correlations between environmental variables, microbial communities, and antimicrobial resistance, suggesting multiple routes for improving surveillance.
Researchers found stable antibodies in 800-year-old medieval human teeth that can still recognize viral proteins, allowing them to study the history of infectious human diseases. This discovery expands the field of palaeoproteomics and may enable experts to analyze how human antibody responses developed over time.
Most U.S. infants requiring intensive care for RSV lower respiratory tract infections were young and healthy, born at term. RSV preventive measures targeting all infants are urgently needed to reduce severe illness burden.
A recent study published in Cell Host and Microbe reveals how flaviviruses hijack human cells to promote replication. The discovery of KAT5γ's critical role in viral replication paves the way for designing inhibitory molecules to stop viral replication.
Researchers examine translational studies on peripheral surrogates of tumor burden, including circulating tumor DNA, miRNA, and HPV-specific antibodies, to inform chemotherapy and immunotherapy strategies. These biomarkers show promise as prognostic and predictive markers of response to treatment.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered the inner workings of Ebola virus replication inside host cells, revealing 'viral factories' that form clusters of viral proteins and genomes. These microscopic structures are formed in host cells and play a crucial role in the virus's life cycle.
Yale researchers have created a functional humanized liver in living mice, enabling scientists to study human-specific mechanisms for regulating cholesterol levels and treating chronic liver diseases. The discovery uses progenitor stem cells and mature cells from a human liver to mimic the cellular functions of a healthy human liver.
A vaccination campaign in Cambodia has successfully protected endangered wild cattle from lumpy skin disease (LSD), a highly contagious viral disease. The campaign, launched in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society, has vaccinated over 20,000 domestic cattle and water buffalo to prevent the spread of LSD to wild ruminants.
Researchers found that Epstein-Barr virus induces B cell growth transformation through the activation of the cancer-related gene IMPDH2, leading to uncontrolled proliferation. The study used primary B cells and found that inhibiting IMPDH2 can suppress post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) development.
A University of Ottawa-led research team has made significant progress in understanding XLP-2, a genetic disorder that affects the immune system. The study reveals two underlying mechanisms: poor expression of Interleukin-6 and compromised T cell survival, which lead to immunodeficiency in patients.
Researchers at NUS and Imperial College London have discovered a new way bacteria share genes, enabling rapid evolution. Lateral cotransduction enables SaPIs to transfer themselves intact with bacterial DNA, making them potent transducing agents.
A study found COVID-19 vaccination coverage was high among healthcare workers and older adults, but low among non-priority recipients. The main reason for wanting to be vaccinated was to prevent self-infection and protect family members.
Researchers investigated the inactivation efficacy of different UV wavelengths against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants, finding similar inactivation properties across various wavelengths. The study highlights the potential of far-UVC light as a safe germicidal option for mitigating airborne virus transmission.
Researchers have uncovered a novel mechanism of cell death regulation, shedding light on its significance during conditions such as SARS-CoV infection and skin injury. The study reveals that the cleavage of cFLIP restrains cell death during viral infection and tissue injury, favoring tissue repair.
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh Center for Vaccine Research have identified a protein responsible for lethal liver disease in mice infected with Rift Valley fever virus. Removing this protein, Lrp1, from the liver prevented viral replication and extended mouse lifespan.
Researchers have developed a computational tool to compare large datasets and predict immune responses to disease, potentially leading to better vaccines. The new algorithm, designed by La Jolla Institute for Immunology scientists, uses machine learning to identify underlying patterns in immune system data.
A new 'fly-to-bedside' resource has been developed to sort through the complexities of SARS-CoV-2 virus-host interactions. Researchers found that nine out of 10 non-structural proteins resulted in wing defects, providing a basis for understanding how viral proteins affect host proteins.
Researchers tracked daily lifestyle diaries and photographs from over 1,000 participants to understand the impact of Covid-19 on physical and mental health. The study found that people with limited resources struggled more during lockdowns, while those with more control and financial stability coped better.
Children with mitochondrial disorders have a weaker and less diverse antibody response to viral infections due to altered B cell function. The study provides insights into how immune cells differ in these patients and how this affects their response to infections.
Researchers found that highly conserved amino acids within MHC-II are crucial for bat influenza A virus infection. The study reveals a broad range of vertebrates, including humans, can be targeted by these viruses due to their ability to bind to MHC-II.
Researchers found that biting midges responsible for transmitting the virus are active on warmest days throughout the winter, contrary to previous theories. The discovery suggests that bluetongue virus transmission is likely ongoing year-round, with potential economic impacts for cattle farming.
A new species of mosquito, Culex modestus, has been discovered in Finland, adding to the country's mosquito species count. The discovery is an important addition to the understanding of mosquitoes and their potential pathogens, with no reported cases of West Nile virus transmission in humans or horses.
A team of researchers led by Dr. William Gilhooly III found that viruses are infecting sulfur bacteria, altering their genetic code and influencing their behavior in oxygen-deficient lakes. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the impact of viral infections on bacterial ecosystems.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed an innovative gene therapy that shows promise in treating Dravet syndrome, a severe developmental epilepsy affecting children. The treatment was found to be effective in improving epilepsy, protecting against early death, and enhancing cognitive abilities.
Scientists at Max Delbrück Center have developed a tool to screen drugs that can help treat viral diseases like COVID-19 by analyzing the immune response of lung epithelial cells. The technology uses synthetic locus control region (sLCR) DNA sequences that glow red when triggered, enabling researchers to identify potential treatments.
Patients with GATA2 deficiency have impaired ability to produce immune cells, leading to increased risk of recurrent infections and blood cancers. The study's findings suggest that a zebrafish model may help develop new treatments to slow or reverse the disease.
Researchers at Trudeau Institute and Texas Biomedical Research Institute found that prior dengue infection can worsen Zika virus outcomes during pregnancy. Pregnant marmoset monkeys infected with dengue passed significantly more Zika virus to their fetuses than those without dengue, suggesting a link between the two viruses.
Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that apple-shaped obesity is associated with cytokine storm and a higher risk of death in COVID-19 patients. The study suggests that obese patients with excess belly fat may benefit from anti-inflammatory therapies, including IL-6 blockers.
Scientists have found that tiger mosquitoes can transmit the chikungunya virus as effectively at 20°C as at 28°C, raising concerns about its spread in temperate regions. The study reveals different gene expression profiles and microbiome changes in infected mosquitoes, which could lead to increased transmission of the pathogen.
Researchers discover cBAF protein complex plays crucial role in controlling T cell fate during infection. The study reveals how chromatin remodeling and genetic code accessibility influence the development of cytotoxic T cells into effector and memory subtypes.
A machine-learning study has found that individual characteristics, including age and weight, determine which drug combinations most effectively reduce COVID-19 recurrence rates. The study used real-world data from a hospital in China and identified unique treatment combinations for different demographic groups.
A phase 3 trial found that the VLA1553 vaccine candidate produced an immune response in 99% of participants, inducing protection against disease. The study also showed that the vaccine was generally safe and well-tolerated across all age groups, with most adverse events being mild or moderate.
Scientists have developed an innovative platform using engineered human tissue to study how pathogens carried by mosquitoes impact and infect human cells. This breakthrough holds promise for studying other disease vectors like ticks, which spread Lyme disease.
Researchers have discovered a common virus hidden within the genomes of coral symbionts, which can threaten the stability of the symbiotic partnership. Climate change and stress can trigger the release of this non-retroviral RNA virus, leading to disease in corals.
A new study published in JAMA Neurology suggests that multiple sclerosis is more prevalent in Black Americans than once thought, with the disease also affecting Northern regions of the US. The study's findings have significant implications for public policy and resource allocation towards historically under-represented populations.
A UNIGE team has identified how the influenza A virus manages to penetrate cells to infect them by hijacking the iron transport mechanism. By blocking this receptor, researchers were able to significantly reduce its ability to invade cells, highlighting a potential strategy for treating influenza virus infections.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered how the current H5N1 avian influenza virus gained new genes and greater virulence as it spread across North America. The researchers found that the virus could severely infect the brains of mammalian research models, a notable departure from previous related strains.
Researchers analyzed hospitalization and fatality rates of SARS-CoV-2 infection in England between May 2020 and March 2022. The study found that the mass vaccination campaign significantly reduced severe effects of the virus, with notable improvements after the emergence of Alpha, Delta, and Omicron variants.
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology found that MAIT cells can be tuned to fight different pathogens via their metabolism, with two distinct subtypes responding to sugar and fat. This discovery may inspire new vaccines and cell therapies to boost the immune response against specific pathogens.
Scientists at Scripps Research have determined the structure of the critical protein complex that lets Lassa virus infect human cells, identifying new antibodies and vaccine targets. The research also found a high level of conservation across different lineages of the virus, paving the way for more effective vaccines and treatments.
Researchers used a multiomics approach to analyze changes in transposable elements after influenza A virus infection, identifying transcription factors contributing to individual responses. The study provides insights into the variable severity of illness among individuals infected with the same virus.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have captured the structure of a commonly used phage, filamentous phages, which will enable the development of new biotechnology applications. The new insights gained from this research will help improve phage display and other uses in drug discovery.
A Phase 3 trial found that mailing HPV self-collection kits and scheduling assistance increased cervical cancer screenings among under-screened, underserved women. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach in breaking down access barriers to screening.
Researchers have identified a new group of mitochondrial viruses confined to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi Glomeromycotina, which may represent an ancestral lineage of mitoviruses. These large duamitoviruses possess distinct characteristics and are globally distributed in ecological niches occupied by glomeromycotinian fungi.
A study by UMC Utrecht shows that corona patients can measure their blood oxygen levels at home using a pulse oximeter, feeling safe and experiencing more control. This method does not increase GP visits or hospitalization but contributes to relieving caregivers and keeping healthcare affordable.
A new immunotherapy treatment developed by UCF researchers uses targeted IL-2 to fight respiratory viral infections with improved outcomes in animal studies. The treatment promotes an antiviral inflammatory response and reduces bronchial inflammation.
A gene-edited calf, named Ginger, has been born with reduced susceptibility to a major viral pathogen, bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). If confirmed by follow-up research, this approach could offer long-term potential to reduce antimicrobial and antibiotic use in the cattle industry.
Scientists have successfully produced a gene-edited calf with resistance to BVDV, a virus costing the US cattle sector billions annually. The edited calf, named Ginger, displayed significantly reduced susceptibility to the virus without adverse health effects.
A gene-edited calf demonstrates reduced susceptibility to bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) after intentionally altering the CD46 receptor with CRISPR/Cas9. The healthy calf showed no measurable infectious virus in its blood, despite both calves developing antibodies to the virus.
The MUSC Hollings community health van has increased access to the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in South Carolina's underserved communities. The vaccine is linked to six different kinds of cancer, including cervical, throat, anal, penile, vaginal and vulvar cancers.