Analysis indicates a third H1N1 pandemic wave unlikely in 2010
A study analyzing H1N1 antibody levels suggests a third wave is unlikely in 2010. Adults aged 50-79 years are at a higher risk of severe outcomes if infected.
Antibodies
Articles tagged with Antibodies
Vaccine suspended 5 years ago has actually given children long term
A study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases suggests that infant immunity to hepatitis B lasts for at least 5 years after primary vaccination, making booster shots unnecessary. The research, led by Alessandro Zanetti, found that children vaccinated with hexavac maintained protective antibody levels for over 5 years.
Cost-effectiveness of routine use of pooled nucleic acid amplification testing
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that pooled nucleic acid amplification testing is not cost-effective at recommended antibody testing intervals, except for clinics serving men who have sex with men. However, decreasing the antibody testing interval to 6 months or 5 years made it cost-saving in all settings.
Visualizing viruses: new research pinpoints tiny invaders
Researchers have developed a new method for visualizing individual virus particles, enabling a more detailed understanding of these minute pathogens. The technique, known as surface plasmon resonance microscopy, allows for the detection and measurement of viral mass, with a detection limit rivaling conventional methods by three to four...
Study identifies factors associated with rate of visual field change in patients with glaucoma
A study of 216 patients with open-angle glaucoma found that older patients and those with abnormal anticardiolin antibodies experienced faster visual field decline. Reducing intraocular pressure modestly slowed this decline, particularly in younger patients.
New drug target for immune diseases discovered
Researchers identified a new signaling pathway between TACI and MyD88 that regulates the immune response. This interaction may cause both protective antibodies against infections and excessive immune reactions in autoimmune diseases.
New approach to Alzheimer's therapy
DZNE and LMU researchers have identified alpha secretase enzyme ADAM10, which cleaves amyloid precursor protein without forming beta-amyloid plaques. This discovery opens up new possibilities for diagnosing and preventing Alzheimer's disease.
UCI immunological study finds earlier way to diagnose axon and neuron degeneration in MS
Researchers at UCI have found a new diagnostic tool for multiple sclerosis by detecting increased levels of antibodies that inhibit energy production in neurons. This breakthrough could lead to earlier and more effective treatment for the chronic disease.
Non-human sugar in biotech drugs causes inflammation
Researchers discovered a non-human sialic acid sugar in biotech drugs that can provoke a strong immune response in some individuals, worsening chronic inflammation. A simple modification to the drug-making process could solve this problem by adding human sialic acid.
Subtle thyroid problem triples the risk of placental separation in birth
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered a link between anti-TPO antibodies and placental abruption in pregnant women. The study of over 17,000 women found that antibody-positive women were three times as likely to experience placental separation during labor.
Novel microfluidic HIV test is quick and cheap
A novel microfluidic HIV test developed by Prof. Alexander Revzin uses antibodies to 'capture' white blood cells called T cells affected by HIV. The test detects the types and levels of inflammatory proteins released by the cells, providing six parameters simultaneously from a small blood sample.
Researchers discover trigger to early, effective antibody response
A molecule that binds toll-like receptors doubles the early antibody response to an antigen and shifts it to a more effective IgG form. The findings support bridge immunity, which links innate and adaptive arms of the immune response.
US Department of Defense helps move spinal cord injury treatment closer to clinical trials
The US Department of Defense has awarded over $1 million to a team of researchers at the University of Western Ontario to develop an antibody treatment for spinal cord injuries. The therapy targets inflammation caused by CD11d protein, which can limit damage and improve recovery rates.
UCI researchers develop world's first plastic antibodies
UCI chemists develop synthetic antibodies that block bee venom by encasing melittin, a peptide causing cells to rupture. These 'plastic antibodies' offer a promising alternative to natural antibodies for treating medical conditions, with potential applications in fighting deadly toxins and pathogens.
Blood relations
Researchers at Arizona State University and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center develop a new method to identify biomarkers for ovarian cancer using antibodies. They found 19 distinct scFvs that selectively bound to proteins exclusively found in ovarian cancerous blood serum, providing potential for significant improvements in patie...
Stanford study first to show antibodies involved in nerve repair in injuries
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered that antibodies are critical to the repair of nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system. In a new study, scientists show that certain antibodies can facilitate myelin clearance and nerve regeneration, while others do not.
Plastic antibody works in first tests in living animals
Researchers have successfully tested a plastic antibody that mimics natural antibodies in the bloodstream of living mice, demonstrating its ability to recognize and fight infectious substances. The breakthrough could lead to medical applications for custom-tailored nanoparticles to combat various antigens.
Fox Chase clinical trial tests first of its kind antibody
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center are testing a new antibody, MM-111, that targets the HER2/HER3 pathway in patients with advanced breast and gastric cancers. The trial aims to provide an additional therapeutic target within the HER2 pathway and potentially overcome resistance to current HER2-targeted therapies.
Cold sore virus may contribute to cognitive and brain abnormalities in schizophrenia
Research suggests that exposure to herpes simplex virus 1 may contribute to cognitive and brain abnormalities in schizophrenia. Patients with antibodies for HSV-1 performed poorly on cognitive tests and had reduced brain volume in key regions, including the anterior cingulate and cerebellum.
Silica cages help anti-cancer antibodies kill tumors in mice
Researchers have developed silica cages that can package anti-cancer antibodies, which significantly slow the growth of tumors and prolong the lives of mice. The treatment also reduces side effects compared to traditional intravenous drips.
Manmade antibodies hold biomedical promise
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a method to create synthetic antibodies that can bind with human proteins with high affinity and specificity. This technique, called synbody construction, involves combining random amino acid sequences to form a binding molecule that can target specific proteins.
New understanding of dengue fever could help with vaccine
A new study reveals that the human immune system's defences against dengue fever can actually help the virus infect more cells. This finding could lead to the development of an effective vaccine by avoiding certain antibodies produced in response to the virus.
Study finds wide variation in those infected by H1N1
A study analyzing blood samples from Singapore found significant variation in H1N1 infection risks among different age groups and military personnel. Younger individuals and those with household members who seroconverted had higher infection rates, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions.
Does smoking compound other MS risk factors?
A new study found that smoking increases MS risk in individuals with high levels of Epstein-Barr virus antibody, but not those without it. The research suggests a link between smoking, immune response to the virus, and MS development.
Scientists identify how a novel class of antibodies inhibits HIV infection
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have discovered a set of naturally occurring antibodies that can block HIV's entry into certain blood cells. These polyreactive anti-phospholipid antibodies show promise as a potential new strategy for HIV vaccine design.
Genetically engineered tobacco plant cleans up environmental toxin
A genetically modified tobacco plant can produce antibodies to toxic MC-LR, rendering it harmless. This innovative technology could serve as a major tool in keeping water sources safe in developing nations.
Bacteria-killing proteins cover blood type blind spot
Scientists at Emory University School of Medicine discovered a set of bacteria-killing proteins that recognize human blood type molecules on bacterial surfaces. These proteins, galectin-4 and galectin-8, can kill certain strains of E.coli within minutes.
Restrictions on female plasma may not be warranted
A retrospective study of Red Cross donor and hospital data found that patients receiving female-donor plasma had better lung function, reduced risk of death within 30 days of surgery, and longer hospital stays compared to those who received male-donor plasma.
2-pronged immune response offers hope for effective Salmonella vaccine
Research from Malawi and the UK reveals a two-pronged immune response that could combat even the most resilient strains of nontyphoidal Salmonella. Protective antibodies have been identified that recognize bacteria in the blood and kill them without immune cell help, offering hope for an effective vaccine.
Llama proteins could play a vital role in the war on terror
Scientists have created antibodies in llamas to detect seven types of botulinum neurotoxins, which are highly toxic and can cause paralysis. These llama antibodies, called single domain antibodies, may play a role in future anti-botulism treatments and could improve biosensors for detecting toxins.
The relationship between anti-merozoite antibodies and incidence of Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Research synthesizes data from various studies on anti-merozoite antibody responses and their link to protection against clinical malaria. Merozoite antigens are key targets of protective immunity, with antibodies to MSP-3, MSP-119, and AMA1 offering substantial protection.
Birds fight alien parasites
Galapagos finches develop antibodies against two parasites that invaded the islands, suggesting they can fight off alien invaders. The immune system recognizes these parasites and produces specific antibodies, which may help the birds resist the threats.
A new target for lymphoma therapy
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have discovered a gene enhancer responsible for activating cancer-causing genes in B cells, leading to the development of a new target for lymphoma therapy. The study suggests that targeting this regulatory component could potentially arrest lymphomas and other blood-related cancers.
Common pain relievers may dilute power of flu shots
Research from the University of Rochester Medical Center found that using common pain killers like Advil and Tylenol at the time of flu injection can blunt the vaccine's effect. The study suggests that timing and dosage of pain relievers also play a role in reducing antibody production, which is necessary for immune protection.
NIAID scientists propose new explanation for flu virus antigenic drift
Researchers found that high-affinity mutant viruses alternate with low-affinity forms in antigenic drift. Increasing child vaccination could slow this process and extend seasonal influenza vaccine effectiveness.
Oklahoma scientists discover promising new path for treating traumas
Researchers at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation have made a groundbreaking discovery that could help treat traumatic injuries and severe diseases. They found an antibody that can counteract histones' deadly effects on blood vessels, potentially preventing uncontrolled bleeding and fluid buildup.
Is duodenal biopsy necessary in celiac disease diagnosis for children and adults?
A study found that high transglutaminase antibody levels can accurately diagnose mucosal atrophy in celiac disease, making duodenal biopsy unnecessary. The predictive value of tTG antibodies may vary by age, with higher accuracy in adults than children.
Magnetic nanotags spot cancer in mice earlier than methods now in clinical use
Researchers at Stanford University developed a new magnetic-nano sensor chip that can detect cancer-associated proteins with high accuracy and search for up to 64 different proteins simultaneously. The sensor is up to 1,000 times more sensitive than current methods and can detect biomarkers in bodily fluids with low concentrations.
Oleocanthal may help prevent, treat Alzheimer's
Researchers at the Monell Chemical Senses Center discovered that oleocanthal alters the structure of neurotoxic beta-amyloid proteins, impairing their ability to damage brain nerve cells. This structural change makes oleocanthal a potential target for developing effective immunotherapy treatments.
New drug targets for spinal cord injury?
Researchers at Ohio State University have identified B cells as a key player in worsening spinal cord injury outcomes, but also found that removing or inhibiting these cells may help improve recovery. The study suggests potential new therapeutic targets for minimizing injury and promoting repair after traumatic spinal cord injury.
Immune response to spinal cord injury may worsen damage
A new study by neuroscientists at Ohio State University suggests that immune responses to spinal cord injuries may actually worsen and extend the damage. Inhibiting antibody-producing B cells may promote healing and reduce long-term effects of spinal cord injury.
Antimicrobial antibodies in celiac disease: Trick or treat?
Anti-glycan antibodies are found to be a common feature of celiac disease at diagnosis, linked to severe malabsorption, and lost after long-term gluten-free diet. The presence of these antibodies is not associated with NOD2/CARD15 mutations.
Antibodies to strep throat bacteria linked to obsessive compulsive disorder in mice
Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health have found a link between antibodies to strep throat bacteria and the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder in mice. The study suggests that an inappropriate immune response to the bacteria may trigger psychiatric symptoms, providing new insights into identifyi...
Anti-growth factor drugs raise hope and concern for treatment of children's eye diseases
Researchers are exploring the use of anti-growth factor drugs to treat children's eye diseases, offering a new tool in the fight against vision loss. However, specialists warn that these drugs may pose serious side effects, particularly in young patients.
Antibody targeting of glioblastoma shows promise in preclinical tests, say Lombardi researchers
Glioblastoma, the deadliest form of brain cancer, has shown promise in treating with an engineered antibody that shuts down tumor growth. Researchers at Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center successfully tested the antibody in human cells and animal studies.
Immune responses to flu vaccine are diminished in lupus patients
Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) exhibit diminished immune responses to the flu vaccine, including lower antibody and cell-mediated responses. The study found that vaccination did not induce disease activity, but may increase morbidity and mortality due to influenza infection in these patients.
In vitro antibody production enables HIV infection detection in window period -- key to safer blood
Researchers have developed an in-vitro antibody production technique to detect HIV infection earlier, reducing the diagnostic window period. This method promotes the synthesis and release of antibodies against HIV-1 prior to detection in plasma samples, leading to safer blood supply and improved diagnosis.
La Jolla Institute discovers genetic trigger for disease-fighting antibodies
Researchers at La Jolla Institute have discovered the specific gene that triggers antibody production, a key step in mounting an immune response against viruses and pathogens. The finding has significant implications for developing new and more effective vaccines.
Caltech chemists say antibody surrogates are just a 'click' away
Researchers create highly stable chemical compounds that can bind to proteins with high affinity and selectivity, replacing traditional antibodies used in medical diagnostic tests. The technique involves a stepwise approach using in situ click chemistry, allowing for the creation of complex molecules in a relatively simple process.
Irish-led research team rule out link between specific antibodies and spina bifida
A new study conducted by an Irish-led research team found no link between folic acid-related auto-antibodies and the risk of having a child with spina bifida. The study, which involved over 140 mothers of affected children, confirms previous findings that maternal folate status can prevent neural tube defects.
LSUHSC's Kolls awarded $1.8 million to improve vaccine strategies for P. carinii pneumonia
Dr. Jay Kolls receives $1.8M grant to explore antibody responses against Pneumocystis fungus, aiming to develop a vaccine to prevent or treat PCP. Preliminary studies show that carbohydrate antibodies participate in early clearance and regulate long-term immune responses.
HIV-1 damages gut antibody-producing immune cells within days of infection
Researchers found that HIV-1 damages the gut's B-cell arm of the immune system just days after transmission, disrupting its ability to fight infections. This damage affects both reactive and non-reactive B cells, leading to a weak response against pathogens like influenza.
UT scientist receives hemophilia research award
Dr. Keri Smith has received a Career Development Award from the National Hemophilia Foundation to develop a therapy for people with Hemophilia A. Her approach involves altering chemical signals produced by T cells that trigger immune responses, making individuals more receptive to replacement Factor VIII.
New discovery to aid in diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease
Scientists have identified PLA2R, a protein found in normal human glomeruli, as the target antigen in idiopathic membranous nephropathy. This discovery holds promise for developing a blood test to replace kidney biopsies and determining which patients are most likely to benefit from immunosuppressive treatment.
MIT: Extending the shelf life of antibody drugs
A new computer model developed at MIT allows researchers to design more stable antibodies, reducing clumping and aggregation issues. The model identifies regions responsible for aggregation and enables mutation of amino acids to increase stability without affecting function.
How to confirm the causes of iron deficiency anemia in young women
A study of 115 young women with iron deficiency anemia found that serological screening for H. pylori and celiac disease increased gastroscopy compliance rates. The tests were confirmed by gastroscopy, which identified IDA-related GI causes in most cases.
A quicker, cheaper SARS virus detector -- one easily customizable for other targets
A new device has been developed that can detect viruses and biological materials more quickly and cheaply than existing methods. The device uses synthetic antibody mimic proteins attached to nanowires to create a sharp measurement of current, allowing for rapid detection in under 10 minutes.
New broad-spectrum vaccine to prevent cervical cancer induces strong responses in animals
A new multimeric-L2 protein vaccine shows robust antibody responses and protection against human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in mice and rabbits. The vaccine has the potential to address the limited protection of current HPV vaccines against other HPV types, which cause cancer.
Princeton team's analysis of flu virus could lead to better vaccines
Researchers found that antibody interference can hinder vaccine effectiveness, proposing a new approach to design more powerful vaccines. They suggest intentionally developing a vaccine strain that differs from the anticipated infectious virus at specific sites.
Hopkins Children's study: Folic acid may help treat allergies, asthma
A study of over 8,000 people found that higher blood levels of folic acid were associated with fewer reported allergies, less wheezing, and a lower likelihood of asthma. The researchers recommend further studies to confirm their results and establish safe doses.