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Cheap, potent pathway to pandemic therapeutics

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have developed a new technique to discover tiny antibody fragments that can target different parts of a pathogen, making them effective against variants. This approach has the potential to quickly identify multiple potent nanobodies that can neutralize pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell Systems·DateFeb 15, 2021

No more needles for diagnostic tests?

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis developed a pain-free microneedle patch that can detect biomarkers in the fluid between cells, revolutionizing diagnostic testing. The technology offers unprecedented sensitivity and could eliminate unnecessary hospital trips and discomfort.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 22, 2021

New promising antibodies against SARS-CoV-2

Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed four nanobodies that effectively target the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, offering a promising therapeutic option. These nanobodies can be produced in large quantities and are less likely to cause unwanted complications, making them an attractive alternative to traditional antibodies.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience·DateJan 12, 2021

Understanding how to improve antibodies targeting OX40 for the treatment of cancer

Scientists at the University of Southampton have discovered that modifying antibodies to target OX40 can enhance immune responses against cancer cells. By adjusting the antibody's isotype, researchers found that one type can delete suppressive Treg cells and another can stimulate killer T-cells, leading to improved anti-tumor effects.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateJan 8, 2021

Pre-existing flu immunity impacts antibody quality following infection and vaccination

Research at the University of Chicago found that pre-existing flu immunity shapes antibody responses to influenza infections and vaccinations. The quality of these responses differs between individuals who are vaccinated or naturally infected, with vaccinated individuals generating more adaptable antibodies that target conserved regions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 11, 2020

CNIC scientists identify a new diagnostic and therapeutic target for cardiovascular disease

Researchers at CNIC have identified mitochondrial protein ALDH4A1 as a potential marker for cardiovascular disease diagnosis and a possible therapeutic target. The study found that ALDH4A1 accumulates in plaques and its plasma concentration is elevated in patients with carotid atherosclerosis, suggesting it as a biomarker.

A semiconductor chip detects antigen concentrations at 1 parts per quadrillion molar mass

A semiconductor chip has been developed to detect antigen concentrations as low as 1 part per quadrillion molar mass, enabling ultra-sensitive detection on a portable scale. This technology uses organic nanosheets and can detect biomolecules in real-time, paving the way for quick disease diagnosis and telemedicine applications.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 1, 2020

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Chinese vaccine candidate based on inactivated SARS-CoV-2 virus appears safe and induces an immune response in healthy volunteers, preliminary study finds

A phase 1/2 randomised controlled trial of the inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate CoronaVac involved over 700 healthy volunteers aged 18-59 years recruited in China. The study found that CoronaVac is safe and induces a robust antibody response within four weeks after two doses, with optimal dosing identified as 3μg.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 17, 2020

Potential cholera vaccine target discovered

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found a unique mechanism of protection against Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium that causes cholera. Human antibodies block the bacteria's motility, preventing it from causing disease. This breakthrough could lead to more effective vaccines for cholera, particularly in young children.

New saliva-based antibody test for SARS-CoV-2 highly accurate in initial study

A new saliva-based antibody test developed by Johns Hopkins researchers accurately detects SARS-CoV-2 antibodies from small saliva samples. The test's high sensitivity and specificity make it suitable for various applications, including large-scale screening and monitoring changes in antibody-positivity rates over time.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateNov 13, 2020