Articles tagged with Neuraminidase
Researchers at NIH have identified antibodies targeting a hard-to-spot region of the influenza virus's neuraminidase protein head, known as the NA dark side. These antibodies could be used to develop new vaccine and therapeutic strategies, providing protection against influenza viruses with drug-resistant mutations.
Researchers found that reduced NA activity enables HA mutations to become more neutral, and that this process is crucial for predicting future flu strains. The study aims to improve flu vaccine accuracy by understanding the interactions between HA and NA genes.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences identifies Neuraminidase 3 (Neu3) as a key enzyme responsible for colitis, a chronic digestive disease. Inhibiting Neu3 with Relenza breaks the chain of inflammation, and augmenting intestinal alkaline phosphatase appears to be equally beneficial.
A fast-spreading mutation in the H3N2 flu subtype has effectively blocked antibodies from binding to a key viral protein, according to researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The study suggests that flu vaccines focusing on one protein may not be enough to protect against evolving viruses.
Researchers at Scripps Research have found an antibody that protects against a wide range of influenza viruses by targeting the neuraminidase protein. The discovery could lead to the development of a universal flu vaccine that offers broad protection against human, swine, and avian strains.
A newly discovered antibody protects mice against a wide range of lethal influenza viruses, representing human, swine, and avian strains. The antibody could serve as a template to design a universal flu vaccine and treat severe cases of flu.
InDevR launches first-in-class reagent kit for rapid quantification of N9 in 'pandemic' influenza vaccines. The VaxArray assays are expected to reduce time and cost associated with vaccine production, facilitating improvement of seasonal and pandemic influenza vaccines.
InDevR's new VaxArray kit offers a standardized method to measure neuraminidase in influenza vaccines, improving accuracy and precision. This assay is expected to aid in the development of more broadly protective flu vaccines by enabling manufacturers to meet current regulatory requirements.
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have discovered that antibodies targeting the hemagglutinin protein on influenza viruses also inhibit the neuraminidase enzyme. This inhibition enhances antibody neutralization and activation of innate immune cells with anti-viral activity. The study suggests a promising approach for uni...
The VaxArray NA reagent kit provides a standardized method for assessing neuraminidase in influenza vaccines, enabling manufacturers to meet current regulatory requirements and prepare for future trends. This breakthrough tool is expected to serve as an important new asset in the push for a more broadly protective or 'universal' flu va...
Researchers argue that targeting neuraminidase, the 'N' protein, could substantially decrease infection rates and reduce disease severity for those infected with the influenza virus. The current anti-flu vaccines concentrate on hemagglutinin, leaving a big hole in immunity.
A European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control expert opinion supports the use of neuraminidase inhibitors in treating and preventing influenza. The most vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and those with compromised immune systems, are particularly eligible for treatment and prophylaxis.
A large-scale study published in The BMJ found that taking neuraminidase inhibitors during pregnancy does not increase the risk of adverse birth outcomes. The study analyzed nearly 6,000 women who received these medications and did not find a link to low birth weight, stillbirth, or birth defects.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a compound that targets a specific enzyme overexpressed in certain cancers. The enzyme inhibitor shows promise in turning glioblastoma cancer stem cells into normal cells and stopping their growth.
The Cochrane review found no evidence of reduced hospitalizations or serious influenza complications with Tamiflu. However, the medication increased the risk of nausea and vomiting in adults and children, as well as psychiatric events when used for prevention.
A new study by UCSB's Jamey Marth reveals a protective mechanism against lethal blood coagulation and thrombosis in sepsis. By pre-activating the Ashwell-Morell receptor, survival rates can be increased twofold.
Researchers at UC San Diego discovered how flu viruses exploit a mucus-rich barrier to infect cells, and found that blocking neuraminidase activity could prevent infection. This finding could lead to new drugs or therapies that more effectively inhibit viral activity.
Researchers suggest focusing on boosting natural killer cells to better eliminate influenza virus, potentially overcoming drug resistance issues. Current drugs can boost NK cell activity, improving flu recovery without mutating strain susceptibility.
A Cochrane Review found inconsistencies with published reports of oseltamivir's efficacy and safety profile, raising questions about its use. The analysis showed that the drug did not reduce hospital treatment needs despite reducing symptom alleviation time.
Researchers pinpointed molecular changes that enabled Tamiflu-resistant H1N1 flu viruses to replicate and spread globally. The study revealed two secondary mutations in the neuraminidase gene of resistant strains, allowing them to overcome previous inhibitory effects of Tamiflu.
Researchers used computer search algorithms to identify fragments of FDA-approved drugs that could inhibit neuraminidase proteins, a key target for treating swine and avian influenza. The study suggests six compounds with potential as new medicines if emerging viruses develop resistance to current therapies.
Researchers at the Bioinformatics Institute in Singapore have created a 3D structural model of the neuraminidase protein, which is critical to the H1N1 influenza A virus. This breakthrough analysis revealed extensive surface mutations compared to closely related strains, making previous flu vaccinations less effective. The study also f...
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the N1 protein in seasonal flu vaccines can trigger an antibody response to avian flu virus, offering cross-protection to some individuals. The study suggests that annual influenza vaccines may be beneficial to populations in areas where H5N1 poses a threat to humans.
A study published in PLoS Medicine found that some people have low-titer antibodies against H5N1 influenza, suggesting potential protection. The researchers also observed cross-reactive antibodies in mice, which afforded partial protection against avian H5N1 infection.
A new class of neuraminidase inhibitors has been discovered that blocks the action of the virus and makes it impossible for the influenza virus to develop resistance. The drug will undergo clinical trials in the next three years, offering an alternative to current treatments Tamiflu and Relenza.
Research reveals that nicotine stimulates cell proliferation in lung cancer cells by activating the Rb–Raf-1 pathway, which is dependent on functional nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Additionally, targeting tumor-associated macrophages holds promise as a novel strategy against breast and other cancers.
Goverments should stockpile zanamivir as part of their emergency plans to combat avian influenza. The new drug has a similar effectiveness to oseltamivir but fewer side effects and a more favorable resistance profile. Community-based healthcare personnel, such as pharmacists, may be better suited to handle antiviral distribution.
A Japanese study found that neuraminidase inhibitor oseltamivir-resistant viruses emerged more frequently in children treated for influenza, posing a potential risk of transmission. The research also highlights the need for further investigation into the mechanisms of resistance to prevent and treat future pandemics.