Researchers have characterized the structural and functional properties of the emerging SARS-CoV-2 sublineage RE.2.2, which displays enhanced binding to human ACE2 receptor and a novel N-linked glycosylation site. The study found that RE.2.2 has a distinct antibody escape profile and a remodeled immune evasion landscape.
Research found Covid infection may accelerate blood vessel aging around five years, especially in women, leading to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. The study included 2,390 participants from 16 countries and found stiffer arteries in all three groups of patients who had been infected with Covid.
Researchers at Penn's School of Dental Medicine and Perelman School of Medicine found that ACE inhibitors can inhibit the activity of ACE2, a critical cardioprotective enzyme. This discovery has implications for human patients prescribed these medications, who may benefit from additional ACE2 treatment.
Researchers developed CeSPIACE, a 39-amino-acid peptide drug candidate that binds to the spike protein, blocking viral entry. It demonstrates strong binding to major SARS-CoV-2 variants and shows efficacy against multiple strains in vivo and in vitro experiments.
Research highlights correlation between preeclampsia and COVID-19 in pregnant women, identifying biomarkers for differential diagnosis. The review article emphasizes the pathophysiological similarities between the two conditions, including shared pathways involving the renin-angiotensin system and ACE2.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo developed a synthetic peptide that mimics the ACE2 receptor, blocking SARS-CoV-2 invasion and reducing inflammation in human lung cells and mice. The peptide could be customized for every variant, offering a fast-acting molecular shield against the virus.
Researchers found that the recent SARS-CoV-2 variants BA.2.86 and JN.1 have only minor changes in immune evasion compared to their predecessor Omicron, contradicting initial public health concerns.
Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 in male reproductive cells even when PCR testing failed, revealing a prolonged infection period of up to 90 days. The virus can remain in sperm for 110 days, reducing semen quality and raising concerns for natural conception and assisted reproduction.
Researchers at UVA Health discovered a potential explanation for long COVID symptoms by identifying 'abzymes' that act like enzymes regulating important bodily functions. This discovery could lead to new treatments targeting these rogue antibodies to alleviate acute effects of COVID-19 and its complications.
A new study from Tulane University found that perlecan LG3, a protein commonly found in blood vessels and the brain, forms a stable bond with the COVID spike protein, enhancing the virus's ability to bind with cells. This discovery may lead to new forms of treatment or prevention for COVID-19.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory successfully produced large quantities of human ACE2 receptor protein in mouse cells, allowing for the study of viral receptors and potentially developing new therapies. The method could also facilitate the production of other complex proteins that have proven difficult to produce.
The Pirola variant of SARS-CoV-2 has rediscovered an entry pathway into lung cells that was previously used by earlier variants, which may promote the development of pneumonia. The virus uses the cellular enzyme TMPRSS2 for entry and is resistant to most therapeutic antibodies.
Researchers at The University of Toledo discovered that engineered Lactobacillus paracasei can lower blood pressure in female rats by introducing human ACE2. The study provides a paradigm shift in harnessing the body's microbiome to regulate blood pressure and offers new hope for treating chronic conditions.
Scientists have discovered that SARS-CoV-2 can infect cells using multiple entry points beyond ACE2, explaining its ability to jump between species. This finding highlights the need for continued monitoring of coronaviruses and their potential to cause future pandemics.
Dr. Eric Lazartigues has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on salt-sensitive hypertension and the role of the brain renin-angiotensin system in regulating blood pressure. His work has led to a deeper understanding of hypertension's impact on cardiovascular diseases and mortality.
A recent study unveiled the doorway that SARS-CoV2 uses to slip inside cells undetected. Cholesterol clusters make up this door, allowing the virus to infect human cells. Regular exercise and mechanical force can disrupt these cholesterol aggregates, reducing the risk of infection.
Researchers show that a single virus binds to a single receptor, opening the door for efficient infection. ACE2 receptors are present singly in the membrane, contradicting previous hypotheses about multiple receptor binding.
Researchers have developed an experimental decoy that provides long-term protection from SARS-CoV-2 infection in mice by binding to the virus's spike protein. The treatment was found to be highly effective, with 100% protection against lethal doses of the virus and a significant reduction in viral load.
Researchers at Arizona State University describe an innovative therapy using transient expression in tobacco plants to produce a monoclonal antibody against SARS-CoV-2. This class 4 mAb provides key advantages over existing treatments, including mutation resistance and universal protection against emerging variants.
Researchers have found that the naturally occurring amino acid ALA can reduce the expression of ACE2 on cell membranes, potentially lowering SARS-CoV-2's infectious capabilities. The study also reveals an underlying mechanism involving the production of heme, which is boosted by co-administering ALA with an iron source.
A novel treatment involving ACE2-producing probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei may prevent or reverse diabetic retinopathy in Type 1 diabetes patients. The study found that human subjects with retinopathy had a dysregulated systemic RAS and profound gut permeability defects, which were reversed by the probiotic treatment.
Researchers have discovered that more than 2,500 genes exhibit significant sex differences in expression in mouse alveolar type II cells, potentially explaining sex biases in lung diseases. These findings suggest that AT2 cells may play a crucial role in sex-biased differences in lung injury and repair.
New research reveals that bat virus relatives of MERS-CoV efficiently bind to bat ACE2 receptors as an entry point into cells. However, these viruses only weakly bind to human ACE2 cell receptors and are not known to cause disease outbreaks in people.
Researchers found two Korean native plants' saponins inhibit SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells by blocking membrane fusion. These compounds show promise in treating COVID-19, especially for asymptomatic cases.
A recent study published in Ear, Nose & Throat Journal found that twice-daily nasal irrigation with saline solution significantly reduced hospitalizations and deaths among patients with COVID-19, particularly those aged 55 and older. The technique is safe, effective, and inexpensive, offering a vital public health impact.
Researchers have identified two effective antibodies that neutralize all known strains of COVID-19, including Delta and Omicron variants. These breakthrough antibodies could eliminate the need for repeated booster vaccinations and strengthen immune systems, especially in at-risk populations.
A study by Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University found that fatigue and headache were the most common lingering symptoms after COVID-19, reported by 68.5% and 66.5% of participants, respectively. Cognitive impairment, depression, and anxiety were also prevalent among participants.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University identified four proteins in saliva that bind to and inhibit SARS-CoV-2 entry, including neutrophil elastase and histone H2A. These findings may lead to the development of methods to prevent or treat COVID-19 infection.
Researchers analyze delta variant's biophysical characteristics, revealing unique traits that evade neutralizing antibodies and contribute to severe symptoms. The study sheds light on why vaccinated individuals can still contract the virus and why delta variant hospitalizations are higher than other variants.
A new study by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus explores the effects of multiple mutations in SARS-CoV-2 variants. The findings suggest that certain mutations work together to improve virus fitness, making it challenging for antibody treatments to neutralize new variants.
A new study analyzed genomic data from global populations to identify genetic variants linked to COVID-19 severity. The investigation found dozens of genomic variations in critical genes, suggesting these may have evolved to protect against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2.
A recent study reveals that nearly half of SARS-CoV-2 variants contain the same three mutations, which together improve the virus's ability to infect human cells and evade the immune system. The combination of K417, E484, and N501 mutations enhances viral fitness by balancing positive and negative selection pressures.
Researchers created human mini-kidneys that mimic diabetic kidneys, finding increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and a critical role for the ACE2 receptor. The study provides new insights into the link between diabetes and COVID-19 disease.
Researchers used Frontera supercomputer to model coronavirus-receptor interactions, discovering a 'one-two punch' combo that primes virus for fusion. The study provides new understanding of the mechanism behind increased virulence of variants such as delta and omicron.
Researchers aim to understand why up to 80% of individuals experience temporary or lasting changes in their sense of taste after COVID-19. Preliminary data suggests ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are highly expressed in taste buds, which may explain why these are common targets for the virus.
The article suggests a potential treatment option for COVID-19 by targeting SARS-CoV-2's interaction with ACE2 receptors. Combining DPP4 inhibitors and spironolactone may mitigate COVID-19 complications and infections without adverse side effects.
Researchers examined Kappa and Delta variant structures using cryo-EM, finding Delta's spike protein binds stronger with human ACE2 receptor. This explains the rapid global dominance of the Delta variant. The study provides insight into COVID-19 variants' evolution.
Researchers identified antibodies targeting conserved sites on the spike protein, showing promise against future variants. Antibodies from vaccinated individuals retained some activity, while those with prior infection had reduced effectiveness.
A new study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 limits viral particle release and instead spreads through cell-to-cell transmission, enabling efficient infection without the need for antibodies. This stealthy transmission method makes it challenging for the host immune system to target and neutralize the virus.
A recent study suggests that severe COVID-19 may cause long-term damage to the testes, leading to reduced sperm count and quality. The virus's interaction with testicular cells and potential effects on fertility are being explored through an experimental framework.
A new chewing gum infused with plant-grown ACE2 protein can neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 virus in saliva, potentially reducing transmission risk. The gum, developed by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, was tested on saliva samples from COVID-19 patients and found to significantly reduce viral load.
The study found that the Moderna vaccine offered a lower risk of documented infection (21% reduced), symptomatic COVID-19 (44% reduced), hospitalization (55% reduced), ICU admission (10% reduced), and death (2% reduced) compared to the Pfizer vaccine. The results suggest that either vaccine is effective, but Moderna may be slightly mor...
Antibodies that mimic the SARS-CoV-2 virus may explain lingering symptoms of long-haul COVID-19 and rare vaccine side effects like allergic reactions and blood-clotting. This theory, based on classic immunological concepts, suggests a cascade of immune responses that can lead to adverse effects.
A new study used machine learning to predict the zoonotic capacity of 5,400 mammal species, identifying those at high risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2. The model, which combined data on biological traits with ACE2 receptor information, predicted 72% accuracy and identified numerous additional species with potential to transmit the virus.
A recent Johns Hopkins Medicine-led study suggests that statin use is not beneficial for reducing COVID-19 mortality or severity. Instead, patients taking statins had an increased risk of developing a more severe form of the disease. The researchers found no significant impact on mortality rates.
Dr. Eric Lazartigues received a $2.6 million NIH grant to establish mouse models of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the brain, testing whether the virus can infect the brain and cause disease. The project aims to determine the cell types most affected by the virus and the effect on respiration control by the brain.
Researchers used an evolutionary approach to identify proteins that coevolve with the ACE2 receptor, which may contribute to COVID-19 complications. Disruptions in these interactions could lead to abnormal blood clotting and inflammation responses, causing tissue and organ damage.
The study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 damages the kidneys by interacting with ACE2, leading to an imbalance in blood pressure regulation and inflammation. This can result in impaired kidney function, reduced glomerular filtration rate, and increased risk of acute renal injury.
A review of scientific literature found pregnant women infected by SARS-CoV-2 have a higher risk of developing pre-eclampsia due to reduced ACE2 availability. ACE2 plays a crucial role in placental development, blood pressure control, and fetal development, making its impairment more susceptible to serious complications.
Researchers identified two lectins, Clec4g and CD209c, that strongly bind to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, blocking viral entry into cells. These findings hold promise for developing robust therapeutic interventions against circulating variants.
Researchers at the University of Fukui found that short chain fatty acids can suppress ACE2 expression in nasal epithelial cells, reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission. The study suggests potential therapeutic applications against COVID-19 and could aid in the fight against the virus.
A blood test that measures ACE2 protein and fragments can track SARS-CoV-2 infection evolution, according to a study. Patients with COVID-19 show reduced full-length ACE2 protein levels and increased lower molecular mass fragments.
Researchers at WashU Medicine discovered a single mutation in SARS-CoV-2 that allows the virus to enter human lung cells through an alternative route, which may evade COVID-19 antibodies or vaccines. The study suggests the virus can change and adapt in unexpected ways to cause infection.
Researchers develop nanodecoys made from human lung spheroid cells that bind to and neutralize SARS-CoV-2, accelerating viral clearance and reducing lung injury. The therapy could be effective against emerging variants of the virus.
Researchers found a correlation between high ACE2 concentrations and increased risk of serious COVID-19 outcomes. The study suggests that measuring ACE1 levels may be a useful biomarker to predict mortality from the disease.
Researchers used computational modeling to assess the biological significance of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein mutations. The study identified 'mutation hotspots' that enhance binding to human cells and evade antibodies, contributing to rapid spread of new variants.
Researchers have identified a SARS-CoV-2 variant that sacrifices tight binding to human cells in favor of evading the immune system, which could undermine current COVID-19 vaccines and therapies. The variant, B.1.351, has been found to reduce its binding to ACE2 receptors but decrease its binding to human antibodies.
A new mouse study found that ACE inhibitors can increase levels of SARS-CoV-2 receptors in the body. The researchers suggest that people taking these medications should work with their healthcare providers to manage their treatments.
Scientists have identified potential new therapeutic targets beyond the RBD on the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, which may help explain how emerging variants become more infectious. The research could lead to new treatments targeting the S1/S2 cleavage site.
Researchers discovered that MEK inhibitors reduce cellular expression of ACE2, pERK, and pRb while stimulating NK-mediated cytotoxicity and attenuating inflammatory cytokines. MEKi also suppressed infectivity of the pseudovirus in human cells.