Articles tagged with Host Cells
A potent monoclonal antibody has been developed to impede henipavirus fusion with cell membranes, blocking viral genome injection. The antibody recognizes a specific area of the viral membrane machinery, preventing membrane fusion and keeping viral material out of host cells.
A recent study has identified FHL1 protein as a crucial cellular factor for the replication and pathogenesis of chikungunya virus. The researchers found that FHL1 interacts with viral protein nsP3 to facilitate viral infection, making it a promising target for antiviral development.
Researchers discovered that EspG protein prevents E. coli from forming pedestals in intestinal cells, allowing the bacteria to anchor and grow. This finding offers new possibilities for treating diarrheal diseases caused by pathogenic strains of E. coli.
A team of researchers has discovered that Leishmania parasites exploit an intracellular transport mechanism to spread their virulence factors within infected host cells. The findings provide new insights into the disease's pathogenesis and could potentially lead to the development of new treatments or therapies.
Cells use a molecular safety mechanism to smuggle genetic information molecules around the cell, which are then used to recognize and shut down parasites. This discovery provides new insight into how animal genomes defend themselves against DNA parasites and reveals a previously unknown RNA transport route.
Researchers at LMU discovered that Toxoplasma gondii utilizes a previously unrecognized mode of motility, where it secretes membrane material and recycles it into the cell membrane through endocytosis. This process generates a 'fountain-like' flow of membrane material that contributes to the parasite's propulsion along the substrate.
Researchers found that extracellular pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa can enter host cells and induce cell lysis through the type III secretion system. The study reveals a new mechanism of bacterial killing in macrophages.
Toxoplasma gondii parasites replicate by hijacking the host cell's starvation response, extracting essential amino acids like arginine. This discovery suggests promising new drug targets to treat intracellular pathogens.
A new study reveals that the correlation between food consumption and gut microbiome changes is not as straightforward as previously thought. Researchers found that considering the relationships between foods can reveal stronger associations between dietary nutrients and specific strains of microbes.
Researchers successfully control virus replication in mosquitoes using Wolbachia, which reduces the risk of human disease. The study shows promise for long-term efficacy of Wolbachia as a control option for mosquito-transmitted diseases.
Researchers discovered that Entamoeba histolytica, a parasite causing severe gut disease, hides from the immune system by 'cell nibbling' and displaying human proteins on its surface. This camouflage protects it from complement proteins, allowing it to survive in the body.
Researchers analyzed B. fragilis' evolution in humans, finding 16 genes evolve within individuals, targeting pathways for fiber uptake and immune system interactions. The study also revealed differences in mutations between Western and Eastern cultures, with potential implications for probiotic choices and microbial therapies.
Researchers discovered that bacteria can distinguish themselves from closely related competitors through the use of a virus. A novel phage, SW1, controls formation of a demarcation line by utilizing one of the host's cryptic prophage proteins, providing conditional benefits to E. coli K-12.
Researchers found that bacteria can recognize themselves using phages, which helps them repel competitors and gain a fitness advantage.
Researchers visualize HIV's shape and vulnerabilities using single-molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (smFRET) technology. The study provides a direct means of seeing the dynamic machine-like structure of the HIV envelope, which can be targeted by antibodies to eliminate infected cells.
Researchers have developed a simple model to understand the biomechanics of Ebola virus-host cell adhesion, which is essential for guiding the development of therapies. The model characterizes the interaction between the virus and cell surface receptors, providing new information on the road to developing an effective Ebola treatment.
Researchers have found that different segments of a virus genome can exist in distinct cells but still cause an infection, contradicting a long-held model. The study, published in eLife, used fluorescent probes to detect viral segments in individual cells and found that distinct segments are often found in different cells.
Researchers at UMaine have discovered a connection between an influenza virus surface protein and a host cell lipid, which could lead to new antiviral therapies. The study found that the protein hemagglutinin interacts with the host cell lipid PIP2, potentially allowing for targeted treatments despite frequent viral mutations.
Researchers discover Malassezia yeasts in gut of patients with Crohn's disease, exacerbating intestinal inflammation. Genetic variation associated with immune response to fungi links to disease progression.
Researchers have discovered that bat influenza viruses can infect humans and livestock by using the MHC-II molecule to enter host cells. This finding suggests that these viruses have the potential to cause zoonotic transmission, leading to serious illnesses and deaths.
A cellular protein called Hsp70 plays a critical role in Zika virus infection, facilitating attachment to cells, replication inside cells, and release of mature virus particles. This discovery validates Hsp70 as a potential target for developing new therapies to prevent or treat Zika virus infection.
Scientists have developed a combination of monoclonal antibodies that protect animals from all three Ebola viruses, known to cause human disease. The experimental treatment, called MBP134, has shown broad protective efficacy in both animal models and large animal models.
Researchers found that HIV-infected cells can only reactivate in larger host cells, while smaller cells remain latent or silent. The study suggests a natural mechanism for viral reactivation and offers potential strategies for biasing viral decision-making through drug treatments.
A Yale-led team of researchers found that a specific bacterium in the gut triggers an immune response leading to autoimmune disease. A high-fiber diet rich in resistant starch can suppress this response by altering gut bacteria and short-chain fatty acid production.
Researchers discovered how Staphylococcus aureus assembles a complex to anchor pores, which are then stabilized and used to destroy host cells. Blocking this complex's formation can prevent toxin pore assembly.
Two new studies reveal that previous Dengue infection in pregnant mothers may lead to increased severity of Zika in babies. Conversely, previous Zika infection in mouse mothers may increase severity of Dengue in their pups. The research suggests a unique mechanism by which flaviviruses can cross the placental barrier.
A new study reveals how the poxvirus tricks cells into activating their own cell movement mechanism, allowing the virus to spread rapidly. The researchers found that a specific protein, vaccinia growth factor, plays a key role in this process, and that targeting this pathway could lead to new antiviral strategies.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have uncovered a novel mechanism by which Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria evade immune defenses. Pneumolysin toxin binds to a host cell receptor called Mannose Receptor C type-1 (MRC-1), suppressing inflammation and protective immunity, allowing the bacteria to survive in the airways.
Researchers have discovered a Chlamydia protein that manipulates human cells by removing ubiquitin and acetylation, essential for the bacterium's survival. This finding could pave the way for treating Chlamydia with fewer antibiotics.
Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University developed a method to increase lentiviral particle production, enabling safe and efficient gene introduction into cells. The discovery utilizes the SPSB1 protein to activate transcription factors, leading to up to 12-fold boosted virus production.
Researchers found two new genetic variations of H7N9 and H7N2 subtypes in unvaccinated ducks, indicating the virus has adapted to ducks. The vaccine largely prevented H7N9 infection in chickens, but the virus can still replicate in ducks.
Researchers aim to elucidate biological function of DPLG1-4 genes, which are co-opted by organisms to build new gene regulatory pathways linked to reproduction. They will use CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing techniques on fruit flies to test hypotheses.
Researchers have discovered how the biophysical properties of rotavirus particles account for their functions, which could lead to novel antiviral strategies. The study provides a detailed understanding of the interactions between protein shells, enabling the development of new treatments against infection.
Researchers at the University of Freiburg have discovered that Clostridium difficile toxins penetrate intestinal cells by exploiting a protein called TRiC. Blocking or inhibiting TRiC can prevent cell poisoning, offering potential new strategies for combating these bacterial infections.
Researchers develop 3-D tissue culture models to study host-microbe interactions and combat infectious diseases. The models mimic native tissues and offer valuable insights into mechanisms of infection, aiding in the design of effective vaccines and therapeutic agents.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a new technique to determine the structure and interactions of the Zika virus genome inside human cells. This technique, called COMRADES, can screen for host-virus RNA base-pairing and reveal interacting sequences, offering potential targets for anti-viral therapies.
Scientists have discovered how enveloped viruses, such as HIV and influenza, undergo critical structural changes before infecting host cells. The study used nano-infrared spectroscopic imaging to examine the virus's behavior in simulated cell environments and identified an antiviral compound that can block these changes.
New research from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) shows that MERS-CoV can adapt to infect cells of a new species, similar to SARS-CoV. This finding suggests that other coronaviruses might be able to do the same, potentially leading to new human infections.
Researchers found that viruses like norovirus and rotavirus are transmitted through membrane-cloaked 'virus clusters' that increase disease severity. These clusters, previously unknown to cause human-to-human transmission, may lead to more effective treatments targeting these clusters.
Toxoplasmosis is a widespread infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which multiplies within a host and causes irreversible tissue damage. The parasite implements an ingenious invasive strategy involving a protein complex and rotational force to gain entry to host cells.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have discovered genetically engineered bacteria that produce tryptamine, which helps food pass through the intestines with potentially less risk of side effects. This finding is significant as there are few approved constipation remedies on the market and traditional probiotics don't work for everyone.
Scientists at the NIH have unraveled the process by which the tularemia bacteria cause disease, finding that it tricks host cell mitochondria in two phases of infection. This understanding could lead to the development of effective treatment strategies for the life-threatening disease.
A new study found that Helicobacter pylori bacteria can shut down the energy production in host cells to evade the immune system, leading to an increased risk of gastritis, ulcers, and stomach cancer.
A research team at Hokkaido University has discovered the key receptor molecule that enhances the infection of the influenza A virus. The Ca2+ channel is the critical component, and blocking it with calcium channel blockers can significantly suppress IAV infections.
A new study reveals that Zika virus was introduced to Mexico earlier than previously thought, with evidence of two annual outbreaks across multiple regions. The research also highlights the need for better data collection to track future epidemics of mosquito-borne diseases.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered a unique mechanism driving the spread of Cryptococcosis, a rare and deadly fungal infection. The 'division of labour' process relies on extracellular vesicles to coordinate behavior between individual fungal cells.
Scientists at Uppsala University have discovered that multiple viruses, including adenovirus, influenza virus, HIV, and herpes simplex virus, rely on the host protein ZC3H11A for efficient growth. The protein is involved in a previously unknown mechanism for handling stress in cells.
Researchers at the University of Warwick and the University of Surrey have developed a system to dynamically allocate essential cellular resources to both synthetic circuitry and host cells. This breakthrough advances the potential of synthetically programming cells to combat disease and produce new drugs, including novel antibiotics.
Researchers found that bats have a dampened STING-interferon pathway, allowing them to maintain a balance with viruses without triggering an immune reaction. This defense strategy is thought to have evolved as part of bat biology, including their ability to fly and host a large viral reservoir.
Researchers discovered that gut bacteria stimulate serum IgA responses that offer protection against bacterial sepsis. The study found mice with Proteobacteria-rich microbiota survived longer after sepsis, while those without IgA antibodies died quickly.
A statistical model predicts which bacteria will engraft after fecal transplantation, providing a context for developing synthetic probiotics. The study found that recipient microbiome and immune state play roles in successful FMT, and new bacteria are acquired from both donors and recipients.
Researchers at Hokkaido University identified a key process enabling Ebola virus entry, targeting antiviral drug development.
Researchers discovered that dengue virus takes over an accordion-shaped structure within host cells to produce proteins, while avoiding the larger fluid-filled space of the cell. This subtle approach allows the virus to reproduce tens of thousands of times without triggering the body's defenses.
Research highlights the importance of dietary fiber in managing weight, blood sugar, and insulin sensitivity. Low-fiber diets can lead to weight gain, high blood sugar, and inflammation. Fiber supplements may help restore gut bacteria balance but more study is needed for treatment recommendations.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine have discovered a new antiviral drug, NGI-1, that blocks the replication of multiple mosquito-borne flaviviruses, including Zika, dengue, and yellow fever. The drug targets the host's oligosaccharyltransferase complex, reducing the need for high concentrations and minimizing harm to human cells.
Scientists have characterized the infection mechanism of Rift Valley fever virus by inserting an envelope protein into host cell membranes. The study also reveals a shared recognition pocket with other human pathogenic viruses, paving the way for new therapeutic agents.
Researchers have identified two proteases essential for the malaria parasite's survival and dissemination, as well as a molecule capable of inhibiting them. This discovery could lead to the development of drugs blocking not only the parasite's development in humans but also its transmission to mosquitoes.
Scientists found that H7N9 avian flu viruses can spread among ferrets via respiratory droplets and are minimally responsive to commonly used antiviral drugs. The study also shows that these viruses have a high potential for pandemic due to their efficient replication in human airway cells and the lungs of animal models.
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have identified an enzyme that disrupts vital cell processes in intestinal worms, potentially leading to new vaccine or drug development. The discovery could also help combat emerging drug-resistant worm infections.
A high-manganese diet makes mice susceptible to staph heart infection, inactivating their innate immune system's reactive oxygen burst. This discovery adds to evidence that diet influences infection risk and suggests people with excess tissue manganese may be at higher risk for staph infection of the heart.