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Scientists find hidden individuality in viral infections

Researchers developed a new way to uncover differences in how viruses infect and destroy individual microbial cells. The study used a mathematical modeling framework to analyze infection outcomes in individual cells, revealing striking accuracy and new insights into viral behavior.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2026
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Shedding light on how parasites exit host cells

A team from The University of Osaka has identified the MIC11 gene as essential for parasite egress, disrupting the parasite life cycle. This finding could guide the development of novel treatments for parasite-borne diseases.

SourceImmunology Frontier Research Center (IFReC) - Osaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2026

T cells take aim at Chikungunya virus

Researchers create map of T cell responses to Chikungunya virus, shedding light on chronic disease triggers. They found that people with chronic disease have T cells targeting the same viral epitopes as those who cleared the virus.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 3, 2025

Zika virus uses cells’ ‘self-care’ system to turn against host

The Zika virus employs its host cells' autophagy mechanism to suppress proteins that would trigger an antiviral response, allowing for sustained infection. This unique strategy involves the manipulation of three proteins on the viral membrane, which are also involved in viral entry and replication.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2025
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

How a small number of mutations can fuel outbreaks of western equine encephalitis virus

A single mutation in the spike protein of western equine encephalitis virus is enough to prevent it from attaching to human and horse cells. However, a change in the viral spike protein enables WEEV strains to attach to a different receptor, found on mammalian brain cells, which is shared by its cousin eastern equine encephalitis virus.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2025

Evaluating DNA impurities in recombinant adeno-associated virus

A new study found that recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) capsids contain single-stranded DNA impurities derived from plasmid and host cell DNA. The researchers suggest that the adverse effects of these impurities may differ from those of double-stranded DNA, highlighting the need for further evaluation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2025

Chinese scientists reveal anti-bacterial role of plant metabolite

Researchers discovered that erucamide inhibits Type III Secretion injectisome assembly in Gram-negative bacteria, enhancing plant immunity and reducing disease susceptibility. Exogenous application of erucamide protects crops from bacterial diseases, offering a potential biopesticide for sustainable agriculture.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Chinese Medical Journal review provides insights into respiratory syncytial virus

Researchers provide comprehensive review of RSV's virology, clinical impact, and prevention strategies, emphasizing the need for effective vaccines to mitigate this critical health need. The review highlights RSV's severe impact on infants, children, and older adults, as well as its potential effects on multiple organs and systems.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 20, 2024

How fungi colonize plant roots

Researchers have deciphered how the beneficial fungus Serendipita indica successfully colonizes plant roots of Arabidopsis thaliana. The fungus secretes enzymes that produce a molecule called deoxyadenosine (dAdo), which activates cell death in plants, enabling colonization without causing significant harm.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2024
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Labeling cell particles with barcodes

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new CRISPR-based system to label small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) with RNA barcodes, enabling comprehensive analysis of their biogenesis and release regulators. This system allows for the simultaneous study of thousands of genes and estimation of sEV release from host cells.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2024

Revolutionizing biology education: Scientists film ‘giant’ mimivirus in action

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have successfully captured viral infection process under a light microscope using the giant Mimivirus. The footage showcases the proliferation of the virus and its release from cells, highlighting its biological significance in ecosystems.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Microbiology and Biology Education·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

New findings on animal viruses with potential to infect humans

Researchers identified a protein in mammals that welcomes arteriviruses into host cells to start an infection. The team also found that an existing monoclonal antibody protects cells from viral infection, providing potential therapeutic strategy.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 2024

Solar-powered animal cells

Scientists have successfully integrated chloroplasts from algae into hamster cells, allowing the cells to undergo photosynthesis and producing oxygen and energy. This breakthrough could lead to the development of artificial tissues that can grow in size without limitations due to low oxygen levels, paving the way for innovative biotech...

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the Japan Academy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

How a bacterium becomes a permanent resident in a fungus

A team of researchers led by Julia Vorholt at ETH Zurich initiated laboratory partnerships between bacteria and fungi to study the beginnings of an endosymbiotic relationship. They found that when certain bacteria are passed on to the next generation of fungi through spores, the fungus adapts and becomes more inhabited.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Peptide synthesized at University of São Paulo acts as molecular shield to prevent SARS-CoV-2 from infecting cells

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.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAntiviral Research·DateOct 2, 2024

Research team discovers molecular mechanism for a bacterial infection

A Virginia Tech research team has identified a molecular mechanism by which Shigella flexneri bacteria manipulate host molecules to ensure their survival. The study provides a new understanding of the infection pathway and its potential implications for preventing similar infections in other bacteria.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalStructure·DateSep 20, 2024

LJI discovery paves the way for antivirals against Ebola virus and its deadly relatives

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have captured the first detailed images of the Ebola virus nucleocapsid structure, which is crucial for replicating in host cells. This breakthrough may accelerate the development of universal antivirals that target this viral structure to combat multiple filoviruses.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

To subvert immune response, COVID virus stimulates production of proteins without protective function

SARS-CoV-2 uses machinery of defense cells to induce expression of unproductive isoforms of key antiviral genes, disrupting normal protein production and immune response. The study provides fundamental information on potential targets for antiviral medications and immunomodulatory interventions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateAug 20, 2024

New insights on how bird flu crosses the species barrier

A new study from the Cusack group sheds light on how avian influenza virus can mutate to replicate in mammalian cells. The key enzyme polymerase must adapt to overcome two main barriers: entering and replicating within host cells, as well as acquiring human transmission capabilities.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2024

Ancient Antarctic microorganisms are aggressive predators

Researchers discovered a new type of parasitic behavior in ancient Antarctic archaea, which can kill their hosts and impact ecosystem balance. The study provides insights into these unique microorganisms' role in supporting Earth's ecosystems and holds promise for biotechnological applications.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 1, 2024

Finding a solution for long COVID, one cell type at a time

Researchers at Ohio State University are exploring the role of caspase 11 in SARS-CoV-2 infection, aiming to prevent inflammation and tissue injury. They will use human cell samples and experimental inhibitors to develop new treatment strategies for long COVID.

SourceOhio State University·DateJul 23, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

HKUST identifies novel host factors that facilitates SARS-CoV-2 entry

A research team at HKUST has identified new host factors that facilitate SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells. The study reveals that these factors, including SH3BP4 and ADAM9, promote viral internalization via the endocytic pathway and may enhance the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2024

A promising weapon against measles

Researchers have discovered how a neutralizing antibody blocks measles virus infection by arresting the fusion process. The study's findings may also be relevant to other viruses with pandemic potential, such as Nipah and parainfluenza viruses.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024

Dartmouth-led study provides new insights into phage therapy design

A new Dartmouth-led study has provided new insights into the therapeutic potential of bacteriophage therapy for treating diseases like cystic fibrosis. Researchers found that respiratory epithelial cells sense and respond to therapeutic phages, and interactions between phages and epithelial cells are heterogenous in nature.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Attack and defence in the microverse

Researchers discovered that tiny RNA molecules play a decisive role in the complex interaction of attack and defence strategies when bacteria are infected with bacteriophages. The study found that these RNA molecules regulate phage genes as well as host genes, effectively explaining the destruction of bacterial cells.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2024

The laborious path of a fungal toxin

Researchers at Leibniz-HKI deciphered the function of Candidalysin's unusual protein structure, which reduces pathogenicity and opens up new treatment options. Nanobodies neutralize the toxin, blocking its activity and inhibiting tissue damage.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute -·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMar 14, 2024

Simulations show how HIV sneaks into the nucleus of the cell

Researchers used simulations to model HIV's journey into the nucleus, finding it uses an electrostatic ratchet to squeeze through. The study provides insights into the complex interactions between the virus and cell, suggesting new targets for therapeutic drugs.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Study: This protein may be the ‘glue’ that helps COVID virus stick

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.

SourceTulane University·JournalProtein Science·DateJan 24, 2024

Evolution of the human immune system in the post-Omicron era

Research reveals memory T cells formed after Omicron breakthrough infection provide enhanced immunity against future variants. The study suggests the immune system adapts to combat emerging strains, leading to higher chances of inducing memory T cell defenses.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2024

Findings challenge standard understanding of COVID-19 infection

Researchers at UC Riverside found that SARS-CoV-2 entry varies among different species and tissue types, highlighting the need for thorough investigations into viral entry mechanisms. The study's findings suggest that targeting TMPRSS2 may not be effective in preventing COVID-19 infection in mink.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Lab-grown skin helps unlock secrets of mpox virus infection

Researchers have developed a lab-grown human skin model that effectively replicates mpox virus infections, providing insights into the virus's mechanisms of attack on skin cells. The study reveals how the virus causes disease and identifies potential therapeutic targets, including an antiviral drug called tecovirimat.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Microbiology·DateOct 16, 2023

Revealing the ‘sweet secrets’ of coronavirus cell entry

Researchers at Utrecht University have uncovered a sophisticated mechanism by which coronavirus spike proteins can be activated for cell entry. Sugar binding induces opening of the spike protein and exposure of the receptor binding domain, required for subsequent entry steps.

SourceUtrecht University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Genetic tools probe microbial dark matter

Researchers have identified essential genes for the growth of Patescibacteria, a group of tiny microbes that live on larger bacteria. The study provides insights into their unique biology and potential biotechnology applications.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell·DateSep 7, 2023

Digging deeper into how vaccines work against parasitic disease

Scientists have established the effectiveness of vaccines against leishmaniasis in animal studies, revealing specific molecular-level changes in host cells. The vaccines, created using mutated parasites, prompt distinct immune responses in hosts, offering new insights into their mechanisms and potential applications.

SourceOhio State University·JournaliScience·DateAug 31, 2023

Study helps explain SARS-CoV-2 variants’ rapid spread

New SARS-CoV-2 variants, such as BQ.11 and XBB.1.5, bind to cells more tightly and evade antibodies more efficiently than earlier variants, allowing reinfections and breakthrough infections. Previous infection or vaccination can generate antibodies that recognize some proteins on newer variants, reducing the risk of serious illness.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2023

SARS-CoV-2: The grasping fingers of the viral N protein

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.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

A new look inside Ebola's 'viral factories'

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.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2023

How eavesdropping viruses battle it out to infect us

Researchers find that viruses, like bacteriophages, can eavesdrop on bacterial communication and switch from chill mode to kill mode in response to chemical signals. The study reveals tools that control this strategy and demonstrates its abundance, providing new insights into viral behavior.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Study unveils picolinic acid’s broad-spectrum antiviral abilities

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science have discovered picolinic acid's ability to disrupt viral entry into host cells, blocking enveloped viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A viruses. The compound targets a host-derived component of the virus, causing permanent damage while minimizing effects on the host cell.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJul 18, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

How skin cancer virus outcompetes host cell replication

Researchers have discovered how MCV initiates DNA replication in host cells, allowing the virus to make hundreds of new copies of itself. This process is different from normal cellular DNA replication and can lead to cancer if not controlled.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2023

How the flu virus hacks our cells

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.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeNews article·DateMay 31, 2023

Novel gene-editing strategy leverages unusual genetic alteration to block HIV spread in cells

Scientists at Temple University have developed a novel gene-editing strategy that disrupts the ability of HIV-1 virus to enter host cells by targeting a rare genetic disorder. This approach may offer another target for developing next-generation CRISPR technology for HIV elimination, while avoiding adverse effects on cell mortality.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·DateMay 19, 2023

Metabolism: not the limiting factor in prokaryotic endosymbiosis

Research team used genome models to test viability, persistence, and evolvability of prokaryote endosymbioses, finding that more than half were viable but often less fit and adaptable than their ancestors. The study suggests metabolic network compatibility is unlikely the limiting factor in prokaryotic endosymbiosis.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Where the HI-Virus sleeps in the brain

Researchers developed HIV-1-infection models in human microglia cell cultures to investigate the insertion of the HIV-1 genome. They discovered a correlation between a cellular chromatin factor and the sleeping virus phenotype, linking viral integration to topologically associated domains.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2023

Fats help tag medical implants as friend or foe

Researchers discovered that lipid deposition on medical implant surfaces can signal to the immune system whether to attack or ignore the implant. This knowledge could help develop biomaterials that deflect host immune aggression, reducing malfunction rates for devices like pacemakers and surgical mesh.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2023
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

New treatment for COVID-19 is made from plants

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.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2023

New compound inhibits influenza virus replication

Researchers have identified a compound that inhibits the body's own methyltransferase MTr1, thereby limiting influenza virus replication. The compound proved effective in lung tissue preparations and mouse studies, showing synergistic effects with already approved influenza drugs.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023

Cells use mechanical principles to integrate within existing tissues, new study shows

A new study reveals how new cells join a tissue by reading mechanical information from neighboring tissue. They use cellular fingers called filopodia to touch neighboring cells, opening up the cell layer. This process must happen with accurate precision for proper development and tissue formation.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 12, 2023