The cell sentinel that neutralizes hepatitis B
A UNIGE team identified a three-step mechanism that allows our body to defend itself against hepatitis B. The complex detects the viral DNA, traps it, and inhibits the virus' chromosome.
Viral Dna
Articles tagged with Viral Dna
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New generation of corona vaccine shows promising results
Researchers developed a DNA vaccine containing multiple parts of the virus, including ones that don't mutate as frequently. The vaccine protected mice against serious infection from the beta variant and activated immune cells recognizing the coronavirus found in bats.
Prehistoric roots of ‘cold sore’ virus traced through ancient herpes DNA
Scientists uncover ancient herpes DNA, revealing the virus's prehistoric origins around 5,000 years ago. The discovery suggests a link between the emergence of facial herpes and cultural practices like romantic and sexual kissing in Europe during the Bronze Age.
Monkeypox virus on surfaces: no proof that contact can cause infection
Researchers found viral DNA on hospital surfaces, including patient rooms and frequently touched areas. However, the study's authors caution that surface contamination does not prove the virus can cause infection through contact.
How bacteria store information to kill viruses (but not themselves)
Bacteria's CRISPR system uses spacers to store viral information, but must balance risk of autoimmunity with immune memory. Longer spacers reduce autoimmune response risk, allowing more spacers to be stored without triggering an immune reaction.
Vaccinia virus MacGyvers a makeshift tool to repair its DNA, exposing a vulnerability that could be targeted
Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina found that blocking the enzyme polymerase reduces the virus's ability to multiply. This discovery exposes an Achilles' heel that could be targeted with a therapeutic. Polymerase is a key tool for DNA replication and repair, making the virus vulnerable to disruption.
New method can easily identify viruses in tumors in a routine clinical genomic sequencing assay
Researchers developed a digital subtraction technique to identify viral DNA in tumor samples, achieving comparable results to standard clinical methods. The study discovered novel associations between specific tumors and viruses, warranting further investigation.
Shapeshifting volcano virus points to new ways to deliver drugs, vaccines
Scientists have discovered a shapeshifting volcano virus with remarkable properties that let it alter its shape. This finding could lead to new ways to deliver drugs and vaccines, with implications for understanding how viruses evolved and potentially creating new technologies.
How giant viruses mature: new evidence from the medusavirus sheds light
Researchers discover medusavirus undergoes four stages of maturation within host cells, with unique particle structures and DNA-protein exchange mechanisms. The findings provide new insights into giant viruses' biology and behavior.
Extending women’s fertility & reversing aging in human egg cells
Aging egg cells accumulate damage to genetic material, preventing maturation and fertilization. Researchers have identified a key process causing this damage and found that anti-viral drugs can reverse it.
Tumor tissue modified viral (TTMV)-HPV DNA biomarker test predicts recurrence of HPV-driven oropharynx cancer after treatment
A blood test detecting circulating tumor DNA can accurately predict recurrence of HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancer following treatment. The biomarker test may detect recurrent disease earlier than imaging or other standard methods, allowing physicians to personalize treatment more quickly for patients whose cancer returns.
New research shows gene exchange between viruses and hosts drives evolution
New research reveals that gene exchange between viruses and their hosts plays a major role in shaping the tree of life. The study found that viruses acquire genes from their hosts to hone their infection process, while also co-opting useful viral genes from hosts.
Mechanism for DNA invasion of adenoviral Covid-19 vaccines discovered
A new study reveals the sophisticated mechanism by which adenoviruses infect human cells and transfer foreign DNA into their nucleus. Protein V plays a crucial role in increasing the virus particle's stability and preventing premature DNA release, which triggers an anti-viral alarm system.
Light the E-beacon: Method may lead to faster, more accurate test for coronavirus
Researchers at Binghamton University developed a new methodology called E-beacon that can detect SARS-CoV-2 with reliable results in under 2 hours. The E-beacon uses enzymatic beacons to recognize specific sequences in the virus' spike gene, producing a brighter light signal with increasing virus nucleic acid presence.
‘Good virus’ may help scientists slow progression of incurable eye disorders
Researchers are exploring how an engineered adeno-associated virus (AAV) can compensate for missing protein or swap out genetic mutations that cause vision problems. AAV has been found to be beneficial and is being used as a tool to deliver genes that work as they should.
Ancient marsupial 'junk DNA' might be useful after all, scientists say
Researchers found that viral fossils in Australian marsupials are used to make non-coding RNAs that protect against outside infection. The study suggests that these viral fossils may be helping to immunize animals, potentially providing a mechanism similar to vaccination.
A new approach to curing HIV
A new strategy for curing HIV targets latent viruses by blocking and excising the virus, offering hope for patients to be taken off daily treatments. The HOPE Collaboratory's approach uses genome editing technology to destroy latent HIV.
Getting to the core of HIV replication
Computational biophysics research uncovers mechanism for HIV-1 virus importing nucleotides into its core for DNA synthesis. The study challenges the prevailing view of the viral capsid and reveals an active role in regulating a key step in the virus's life cycle.
Physical virology shows the dynamics of virus reproduction
Researchers have developed physics-based technologies to study virus reproduction, revealing dynamic processes like self-assembly. These findings may lead to the development of new antiviral drugs that disrupt critical steps in the virus cycle.
New insights into how the CRISPR immune system evolved
Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered that a part of the CRISPR-Cas system originated from toxin genes in bacteria and archaea, providing new insights into its evolutionary process. The study reveals an ongoing battle between microorganisms and viruses, with the discovery of anti-CRISPR proteins blocking the immune system.
DNA nanoswitches rapidly detect Sars-Cov-2 and other emerging viruses
DNA nanoswitches rapidly detect SARS-CoV-2 and other emerging viruses, including Zika and Dengue viruses. The low-cost platform can be performed within hours and provides a solution for resource-limited areas.
New gene therapy approach eliminates at least 90% latent herpes simplex virus 1
Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center developed a gene editing approach to remove latent herpes simplex virus 1, achieving a 92% reduction in the virus's presence. The method targets infected cells and nerve pathways, showing promise for a potential cure for the infection.
How a protein stops cells from attacking their own DNA
Researchers at EPFL uncover key role of Barrier-to-Autointegration Factor (BAF) in preventing cGAS-STING pathway activation, which stops cells from attacking their own DNA. This discovery sheds new light on complex processes involved in the body's inflammatory response.
Influenza virus-induced oxidized DNA activates inflammasomes
Research at The University of Tokyo found that influenza virus-infected macrophages release oxidized DNA, which activates the NLRP3 inflammasome and increases IL-1β secretion. Inhibition of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species decreased this secretion, providing a link between viral proteins and inflammasome activation.
Bread mould avoids infection by mutating its own DNA
Scientists discovered that Neurospora crassa, a type of bread mould, actively mutates its own DNA to fight virus-like infections. The fungus uses a process called Repeat-Induced Point mutation (RIP) to rapidly degrade transposable elements, but this comes at a cost of considerable collateral damage.
The most common organism in the oceans harbors a virus in its DNA
Researchers discovered that SAR11 bacteria host a unique virus with a two-pronged survival strategy, allowing it to thrive in the oceans. The virus can multiply and split, producing large numbers of free viruses, contributing to its survival.
Scientists develop tool to sequence circular DNA
Scientists have developed a new method called CIDER-Seq to sequence circular DNA, providing insight into its function in bacterial and viral genomes. The tool also sheds light on extrachromosomal circular DNA in human and plant cells, which has been difficult to study due to the lack of effective methods.
Ion channel VRAC enhances immune response against viruses
The VRAC ion channel transports the messenger substance cGAMP from cell to cell, strengthening the immune response to DNA virus infections. This discovery could also have implications for cancer treatment and new strategies against DNA viruses.
A seven-gene-deleted African swine fever virus is safe and effective vaccine in pigs
A new vaccine against African swine fever (ASFV) has been developed using a seven-gene-deleted virus. The vaccine, HLJ/18-7GD, was found to be safe and effective in pigs, providing long-lasting immunity against the disease. It is also non-pathogenic and does not pose a risk of transmission to other animals.
Structurally designed DNA star creates ultra-sensitive test for dengue virus
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute develop a DNA star trap that captures and detects Dengue virus in the bloodstream, outperforming existing clinical tests by over 100 fold. The non-toxic, biodegradable test could be adapted to kill viruses as well.
Researchers describe a key protein for Epstein-Barr virus infection
Scientists have discovered a key protein structure that could lead to the development of treatments for Epstein-Barr virus infections. The portal protein plays a crucial role in the virus's DNA entry and exit mechanisms, and understanding its structure may enable the design of virus-specific inhibitors.
Major class of viruses reveals complex origins
A new study reveals that circular Rep-encoding single-stranded DNA viruses have acquired their genetic components through complex evolutionary processes. The findings show that these viruses are 'obsessive borrowers', appropriating genetic material from various sources, including bacterial and eukaryotic cells.
A petrifying virus key to evolution
A newly discovered Medusavirus giant virus provides new insights into host-virus co-evolution, with features including DNA coding for five histones and unique capsid surface proteins. The discovery suggests a lateral gene transfer model between host and virus.
Discovery: Mechanical properties of viral DNA determine the course of infection
A new study reveals that the mechanical properties of viral DNA govern the direction of infection, with synchronous and random infections differing in their DNA's stiffness. Temperature and stress levels influence this process, with heat making DNA more flexible and potentially leading to lytic events.
Koala virus could explain why humans have 'junk' DNA
Researchers analyzing a koala virus hope it can explain why humans have accumulated millions of years of 'junk' DNA. The retrovirus has infected germline cells in humans for over five million years, altering the host genetic code and that of its descendants.
UGA and UConn Health researchers discover roles and teamwork of CRISPR-Cas proteins
UGA and UConn Health researchers uncover how CRISPR-Cas systems recognize viruses, create molecular memory, and confer immunity. The study reveals the essential role of Cas4 proteins in governing this process.
MSU researchers reveal findings about virus that lives in Yellowstone hot springs
Researchers at MSU have discovered a new way viruses assemble themselves and eject DNA into host cells, with potential applications in medicine and biotechnology. The study focused on the Acidianus tailed spindle virus, which can change shape to interact with its host cells.
CRISPR-based technology can detect viral DNA
Researchers have developed a CRISPR-based method, DETECTR, to detect viral DNA, including cancer-causing HPV types. The system uses a molecular flare gun to identify specific DNA targets, enabling fast and reliable medical tests with minimal equipment requirements.
On the other hand, the immune system can also cause cancer
A University of Colorado Cancer Center paper describes a mechanism linking viral infection and cancer caused by APOBEC3 enzymes, which are part of the immune system's response to viruses. The research suggests that targeting these enzymes could prevent or treat certain types of cancer.
Scientists discover unknown virus in 'throwaway' DNA
Researchers used Next-Generation Sequencing to identify a new viral lineage distantly related to herpesviruses in fish genomes. The discovery could lead to the identification of viruses in other species, potentially preventing outbreaks before they happen.
Researchers discover how CRISPR proteins find their target
Researchers discovered how Cas1-Cas2 proteins insert viral DNA into CRISPR region by relying on flexible Cas1 protein, IHF binding, and DNA bending, allowing proper storage of 'memories' of prior viral infections. This finding opens doors for modification of the proteins to redirect them to other sequences.
Ancient viral 'fossils' reveal evolutionary mechanisms
Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered that non-autonomous viruses can infect the same plant and exchange DNA to help each other prosper. This 'commensal' partnership with another virus species is crucial in establishing life cycles, with exchanging noncoding regulatory sequences playing a key role.
Danish discovery opens up for new type of immunological treatment of cancer
Researchers from Aarhus University have found a protein called IFI16 that plays a significant role in the innate immune system's defence against cancer and viruses. The discovery may lead to the development of new immunotherapies for cancer treatment.
Viral protein transforms as it measures out DNA
Researchers discovered a viral protein that transforms its structure when interacting with DNA, acting like a sensor to measure out appropriate lengths. This finding reveals a potential drug target for human herpesviruses and offers a new therapeutic strategy.
Kansas State University contributes to potential Zika virus vaccine development
Researchers at Kansas State University developed a promising Zika virus vaccine using DNA technology. The vaccine is safer and more effective against the virus, offering long-term protection at a lower cost.
NIH scientists discover that defective HIV DNA can encode HIV-related proteins
Researchers discovered that cells from HIV-infected people with suppressed virus harbor defective HIV DNA that can produce HIV-related proteins. This finding may explain persistent immune activation during suppressive treatment and pose a potential barrier to an HIV cure.
Researchers harness DNA as the engine of super-efficient nanomachine
A new platform harnesses DNA as the engine of a microscopic nanomachine, detecting trace amounts of substances such as viruses, bacteria, and metals. The technology uses selectively triggered DNA molecules to create a signal, enabling ultra-sensitive detection and potential clinical testing.
DNA 'scrunching' could be new target for antiviral drugs
Researchers propose that DNA shape changes can produce strong forces, a new target for antiviral drugs. The 'scrunched' DNA mechanism could help block viral replication by invading viral shells.
New antiviral drugs could come from DNA 'scrunching'
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine propose a new model for viral replication, suggesting that DNA 'scrunching' generates forces to drive DNA into a virus during replication. This understanding could lead to new ways to fight infectious pathogens.
Mechanisms of persistent infection for the human T-cell leukemia virus
HTLV-1, a retrovirus that co-exists with humans, infects 30 million people worldwide. Persistent infection is attributed to CTCF, which controls viral DNA integration into human DNA. This discovery may lead to new prevention and treatment strategies for refractory leukemia.
Temple researchers successfully excise HIV DNA from animals
Using gene editing technology, Temple researchers successfully excised large fragments of HIV-1 DNA from the genomes of living animals, including transgenic rats and mice. This breakthrough is a significant step towards developing a potentially curative strategy for HIV infection.
Researchers may be one step closer to curing HIV
Scientists from KU Leuven discover a new way to treat HIV by blocking the virus's attachment to genetic material. Led by Professor Zeger Debyser and Doctoral student Lenard Vranckx, their research sheds light on eliminating the virus.
How DNA can take on the properties of sand or toothpaste
Researchers at UC San Diego found that DNA segments become jammed within viruses when sticky, causing the DNA to behave like LEGO pieces. Adding polyamines can cause viral DNA to become jammed and halt packaging.
Retroviral DNA needs time to find its home, but insertion happens in a blink
A new study reveals how retroviral DNA insertion complexes hunt for suitable spots and insert rapidly, with search times exceeding 2-3 seconds and insertion happening in under half a second at chosen sites. The findings could improve treatments for HIV infection and make gene therapy safer and more efficient.
HIV can develop resistance to CRISPR/Cas9
A recent study reveals that single mutations can inhibit HIV-1 replication using CRISPR/Cas9, but some also lead to unexpected resistance. Targeting multiple viral DNA regions may be necessary for the antiviral aspect of CRISPR/Cas9 to be effective.
More ancient viruses lurk in our DNA than we thought
Researchers discovered 19 new non-human DNA sequences from ancient viruses, one containing a complete viral genome, found in 50 out of 2,500 human genomes. The study sheds light on how humans and viruses have evolved together over time.
Ancient viral invaders in our DNA help fight today's infections
A new study reveals that ancient viral elements embedded in our genome have become important for mounting a proper defense against today's viral infections. The research found that these endogenous viruses have repurposed their DNA into virus-derived switches that regulate genes integral to our innate immune system.
Some bacterial CRISPRs can snip RNA, too
Recent research demonstrates that some bacteria use the CRISPR/Cas system to recognize and destroy segments of RNA from invading viruses. This novel approach could provide a new tool for fighting viral infections and offers insights into the complex interactions between bacteria and their environment.
Protein structure illuminates how viruses take over cells
Researchers have determined the structure of a protein complex that lets viruses like HIV establish permanent infections in human cells. The new findings reveal a novel paradigm for retroviral DNA integration and provide insights into how viruses interact with host DNA.
Viruses, too, are our fingerprint
A group of researchers from the University of Helsinki discovered viral DNA in bone samples from World War II casualties, providing a unique archive of past infections. This finding opens up new possibilities for studying ancient pandemics and improving disease prevention.