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Simeprevir-based therapy offers cost-effective alternative in treatment of hepatitis C

A new study has shown that a simeprevir-based therapy is as effective as the standard of care in treating chronic Hepatitis C virus infection, with fewer adverse events. The study found that simeprevir was well-tolerated and could be a viable alternative for patients who cannot access or afford newer treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateDec 9, 2014

YEDA-XL-Protein GmbH agreement

The Weizmann Institute of Science has developed a novel, highly active interferon variant called YNSalpha8. PASylation technology extended its half-life in the body, resulting in improved protection from disease progression in a mouse model of human multiple sclerosis.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 21, 2014

Interleukin-27: Can a cytokine with both pro & anti-inflammatory activity make a good drug target?

A new Review article explores the potential to target IL-27-activated mechanisms in diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease. The cytokine's dual anti-inflammatory and proinflammatory activities suggest it could be a significant determinant of inflammatory responses.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·DateOct 20, 2014

Pattern recognition receptors may be potent new drug targets for immune-mediated diseases

The article highlights the role of pattern recognition receptors in regulating immune responses and their potential as novel targets for developing potent new therapies. The JAK/STAT signaling network also plays a crucial role in disease pathogenesis, and targeting these networks may lead to improved treatments for various diseases.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·DateOct 15, 2014

Study sheds light on asthma and respiratory viruses

A new study found that people with asthma have a similar immune response to respiratory viruses as those without asthma, suggesting another aspect of the immune system is at play. The researchers compared the key immune response to viruses in the lungs and breathing passages, finding no significant differences.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 9, 2014

Is the gut microbiome a potential cause and therapeutic target for autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis?

Researchers explore the link between gut microbiome and autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis, highlighting potential therapeutic targets. The study suggests that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in immune cell activity and cytokine production, which may impact susceptibility to and treatment of autoimmune diseases.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·DateAug 7, 2014

Interfering with interferon

Research by Weizmann Institute scientists found that suppressing interferon activity can have devastating consequences in fighting HIV infection. The study revealed that a short period of blocked interferon activity can lead to permanent damage and disease progression.

NIH scientists identify gene linked to fatal inflammatory disease in children

Researchers have identified a gene linked to STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy (SAVI), a devastating autoinflammatory condition. Repurposed drugs, such as tofacitinib and ruxolitinib, show therapeutic potential in laboratory studies and are currently being studied in children with the disease.

A first in front line immunity research

Researchers have characterised the binding of IFNβ proteins to cells, providing a breakthrough in understanding immune response mechanisms. This study offers new avenues for developing treatments with reduced side effects and improved effectiveness.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Immunology·DateJul 21, 2013

Innate immunity

A team of researchers has identified an enzyme called cGAS that detects cytosolic DNA, triggering the innate immune response. This discovery has significant clinical implications for understanding autoimmune diseases and developing new therapies.

Research deciphers HIV attack plan

Researchers deciphered previously unknown properties of transmitted HIV-1 viruses, revealing they are highly infectious and contain more envelope protein. The findings provide new insights into the biology of viral/host dynamics and may inform vaccine design.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2013

Are we closer to understanding the cause of deadly sepsis?

A growing body of literature suggests that alterations in regulatory T cell function may contribute to the development of sepsis. Manipulating these cells may offer a promising approach to treating patients with septic shock. The Journal of Interferon & Cytokine Research reviews the current understanding of this complex immune response.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·DateNov 16, 2012

A comparative medicine study by Penn vet identifies a new approach to combat viral infections

A comparative medicine study by Penn vet scientists identifies a new strategy for enhancing the effects of interferon in fighting off infection. The research suggests that targeting a particular molecule, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 B (PTP1B), can boost the activity of a person's own interferon.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2012

A*STAR scientists discover 'switch' to boost anti-viral response to fight infectious diseases

Researchers from A*STAR identified the molecular switch Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) that triggers innate immunity and activates potent virus killers, enabling effective responses to dengue and influenza viruses. The discovery paves the way for developing anti-viral drugs targeting BTK.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2012

Nobel Laureate Bruce Beutler on molecular sensors as a trigger for autoimmune disease

A novel molecular mechanism discovered by Bruce Beutler and colleagues suggests that the body's molecular sensors may trigger autoimmune disease. The researchers' findings have important implications for understanding the initiation of both protective and inflammatory immune responses, as well as autoimmune diseases.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·DateOct 27, 2011

Two-thirds of hepatitis C patients can see a cure in half the time, new study finds

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that approximately two-thirds of patients with hepatitis C can be cured in six months, rather than the standard 48-week treatment. The study showed that response-guided therapy is a successful strategy for individualizing treatment based on patient responses.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 15, 2011

Investigational compound PEG-interferon lambda achieved higher response rates with fewer flu-like and musculoskeletal symptoms and cytopenias than PEG-interferon alfa in Phase IIb study of 526 treatment-naive hepatitis C patients

In a Phase IIb study of 526 treatment-naive hepatitis C patients, PEG-Interferon lambda achieved higher rates of rapid virologic response and complete early virologic response compared to PEG-Interferon alfa. The study also showed fewer flu-like symptoms and cytopenias in the PEG-Interferon lambda arms.

SourceTogoRun·DateApr 2, 2011