THE LANCET INFOGRAPHIC: COVID-19 diagnostic tests reviewed
The Lancet infographic reviews COVID-19 diagnostic tests, highlighting their strengths and limitations. The study suggests that improved test accuracy could aid in pandemic control measures.
Antigens
Articles tagged with Antigens
A longer-lasting COVID vaccine? UCLA study points the way
Researchers at UCLA have identified rare T cells capable of targeting a protein found in SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses. By adding a fragment of this protein to vaccines, they hope to create a longer-lasting immune response and increase protection against new variants. This breakthrough could lead to more effective COVID-19 vaccines.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021
Large field hospital study shows rapid Covid-19 test compares solidly with PCR detection
A large field hospital study shows that a rapid Covid-19 test is as accurate as PCR detection, with high sensitivity rates for both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. The rapid antigen test's ease of use, time savings, and cost effectiveness make it an ideal solution to reduce testing disparities in medically underserved communities.
New vaccine ingredient shows promise
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology and MIT have discovered a new adjuvant called SMNP, which combines saponin and TLR agonist to boost the protective power of vaccines. The study found that SMNP triggers a strong immune response in mice, promoting lymphatic drainage and activating multiple parts of the immune system.
SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2021
Immune system-stimulating nanoparticle could lead to more powerful vaccines
Researchers have designed a new nanoparticle adjuvant that significantly improves antibody production following vaccination against HIV, diphtheria, and influenza. The adjuvant speeds up lymph flow to lymph nodes, helps antigens reach B cells before breaking down, and activates inflammatory cytokines for a stronger response.
Antibodies mimicking the virus may explain long haul COVID-19, rare vaccine side effects
Antibodies that mimic the SARS-CoV-2 virus may explain lingering symptoms of long-haul COVID-19 and rare vaccine side effects like allergic reactions and blood-clotting. This theory, based on classic immunological concepts, suggests a cascade of immune responses that can lead to adverse effects.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 24, 2021
Avoiding false positive for SARS-CoV-2 when using rapid antigen tests
Researchers found that omitting or altering the buffer solution can generate false positive results, highlighting its essential role in test function. The study's findings have far-reaching implications for public health worldwide, as the rapid antigen test has been distributed to over 120 countries.
SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021
A peptide-drug conjugate that targets the acidic environment of cancer cells may improve the efficacy of immunotherapy
A peptide-drug conjugate called CBX-12 has been shown to enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in preclinical cancer models by targeting the acidic environment of cancer cells. The treatment exhibited significantly delayed tumor growth, improved survival, and complete tumor regressions compared to immunotherapy alone.
Evidence mounts that MMR and TDAP vaccines strengthen protection against severe COVID-19
Researchers found that prior MMR or Tdap vaccination was associated with decreased disease severity in COVID-19 patients. The study suggests that these commonly given vaccines may protect against severe COVID-19 disease, emphasizing the importance of routine vaccination for children and adults.
Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 remain stable, or even increase, seven months after infection
A study found that SARS-CoV-2 antibodies remained stable or increased in healthcare workers seven months after infection, indicating potential protection from pre-existing antibodies against common cold coronaviruses. The results suggest that individuals with higher levels of anti-HCoV IgG and IgA had lower susceptibility to COVID-19.
Need of the hour: A promising biomarker for the effective monitoring of hepatitis B infections
A new biomarker, HBcrAg, has been found to accurately predict viral load in patients with chronic hepatitis B and reflect response to anti-viral treatments. This discovery may lead to improved monitoring methods for CHB, enabling clinical decisions and potentially improving patient outcomes.
Llama 'nanobodies' could hold key to preventing deadly post-transplant infection
Researchers have developed nanobodies that target the cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a virus that can cause life-threatening complications in immunocompromised patients. These nanobodies bind to the US28 protein and interrupt signals that keep the virus dormant, enabling the immune system to detect and destroy the virus.
Oncotarget: CEA as a blood-based biomarker in anal cancer
Researchers investigated CEA as a blood-based biomarker for anal cancer. Although CEA levels correlated with disease progression, they were not associated with survival outcomes or clinically relevant in managing the disease. Novel approaches with serum biomarkers are necessary for this rare and increasing diagnosed malignancy.
Personalized tumor vaccines may solve tumor recurrence and metastasis challenges
Researchers developed hybrid membrane nanovaccines that educate patients' immune systems to distinguish tumor components as 'non-self', preventing recurrence and metastasis. The vaccines induce robust innate and adaptive immune responses, offering a new opportunity for individualized cancer vaccines.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 7, 2021
Shedding new light: A new type of immunosensor for immunoassay tests
Researchers developed a novel immunosensor called BRET Q-body, which works on the bioluminescence resonance energy transfer principle. The sensor detects antigens by inducing fluorescence through an enzyme-luminescent substrate reaction, allowing for simple and accurate immunoassay tests.
Immune cells imperfect at distinguishing between friend and foe, study suggests
Researchers found that T cells can make mistakes when identifying healthy cells from infected ones, even when binding tightly to antigens. This discovery may lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases and improve cancer therapies.
How x-rays could make reliable, rapid COVID-19 tests a reality
A new x-ray technique developed by Berkeley Lab scientists may revolutionize COVID-19 testing. The method uses small angle X-ray scattering to identify highly sensitive antibody pairs for detection, promising fast and accurate results.
Ultrasensitive antigen test detects SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz developed a novel chip-based antigen test that can detect individual viral antigens one by one in nasal swab samples, enabling simultaneous testing for multiple viruses from one sample. The test's ultrasensitive technique could eventually be developed as a molecular diagnostic tool for point-of-care use.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2021
Stem cell-based vaccine offers a new approach that may protect against pancreatic cancer
A new stem cell-based vaccine has demonstrated 75% protection against pancreatic cancer in a mouse study. The vaccine targets multiple antigens found on pancreatic cancer cells, potentially leading to a more durable immune response.
Tracking down the tiniest of forces: How T cells detect invaders
Researchers observed T cells exerting a tiny force of up to 5 pico-newtons when recognizing antigens, allowing them to determine if the interaction is with the desired antigen. This study provides insights into how T cells function at the molecular level and could lead to significant advances in medicine.
Serial antigen testing may be an effective strategy for controlling infection during a nursing home
A prospective study found serial antigen testing can be an effective strategy for controlling infection during a SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in nursing homes. The test was less sensitive than RT-PCR but performed well in identifying early infections and replicative viruses.
The impact of population-wide rapid antigen testing on SARS-CoV-2 prevalence in Slovakia
Mass testing campaigns in Slovakia significantly decreased SARS-CoV-2 infection rates, with the highest reductions observed in high-prevalence counties. The study found that rapid antigen testing, combined with isolation of those who tested positive, resulted in a substantial decrease in transmission
Home testing for COVID-19 could prevent infections and reduce deaths at justifiable cost
A new study led by Yale University suggests that home testing for SARS-CoV-2 could significantly reduce total infections and mortality at a reasonable cost. By providing households with rapid antigen tests to identify potential contagion, individuals can self-isolate before spreading the disease.
Study contributes to evidence for potential association between blood group a and COVID-19
A new study suggests a potential link between blood group A and COVID-19 infection, with the SARS-CoV-2 virus preferring to bind to the A antigen found on respiratory cells. The study's findings could provide insight into how coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2 interact with different blood types.
T cells depressed
Research on T cells reveals that prolonged exposure to antigens can lead to exhaustion, reducing their ability to contribute to immune responses. A new model study identifies dynamic adjustments in T helper cells' states of exhaustion and suggests potential therapeutic targets.
Infection biology: How one pathogen evades the immune system
Researchers have identified a mechanism that allows Trypanosoma brucei to express only one surface protein variant, avoiding detection by the immune system. This finding has implications for understanding and potentially inhibiting antigenic variation in pathogens.
Treating an autoimmune disease in mice with an mRNA vaccine
Researchers developed an mRNA vaccine that restored tolerance to self-proteins in mice with autoimmune encephalomyelitis, a mouse model for multiple sclerosis. The vaccine suppressed immune responses and promoted regulatory T cells to control the disease.
Antigen tests -- are self-collected nasal swabs a reliable option?
A study found that supervised, self-administered swabs were as effective as professional-collected nasopharyngeal swabs in detecting SARS-CoV-2 infections. The researchers identified cases where antigen tests missed infections were associated with low viral loads, but correctly identified high-load samples.
The mechanics of the immune system
Researchers at TU Wien have discovered that tiny traction forces on the molecular level are essential for the recognition of antigens by T-cells. This new understanding could lead to a deeper understanding of immune system function and potentially new treatment strategies.
Targeting T cell protein could prevent type 1 diabetes, study suggests
A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals that inhibiting protein OCA-B protects mice from type 1 diabetes by limiting immune cell activity. The finding provides a proof-of-principle for OCA-B as a therapeutic target and could lead to further development of treatments.
A semiconductor chip detects antigen concentrations at 1 parts per quadrillion molar mass
A semiconductor chip has been developed to detect antigen concentrations as low as 1 part per quadrillion molar mass, enabling ultra-sensitive detection on a portable scale. This technology uses organic nanosheets and can detect biomolecules in real-time, paving the way for quick disease diagnosis and telemedicine applications.
Big data powers design of 'smart' cell therapies for cancer
Researchers combine machine learning with cell engineering to create living medicines that selectively kill cancer cells while leaving normal tissue unscathed. By analyzing massive databases of proteins, they assemble a catalog of combinations that can precisely target tumors, overcoming the limitations of current treatments.
A novel immunotherapy proves effective in animal models of multiple sclerosis
Researchers have developed an immunotherapy approach that specifically impedes the autoimmune response driving MS, while preserving the rest of the immune system. In mouse models, the therapy prevented disease onset and reduced severity after disease onset.
In study of 30,000 mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients, antibody responses can persist for five months
Researchers found stable antibody titers in mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients for at least five months. The study suggests that these long-lasting antibodies may protect against reinfection and attenuate disease severity.
Injectable hydrogel could someday lead to more effective vaccines
Researchers developed a polymer-nanoparticle hydrogel that allows sustained release of vaccine components, increasing potency and duration of immune responses in mice. The hydrogel boosts antibody production with a 1,000-fold higher affinity for antigens.
Discoveries made in how immune system detects hidden intruders
Researchers from Texas A&M University have made significant discoveries on how the immune system detects hidden intruders. The study found that T-cells increase their detection power mechanically, using a 'catch bond' between T-cell receptors and MHC molecules when force is applied.
Experimental vaccine that boosts antigen production shows promise against COVID-19
Researchers at Ohio State University developed a novel vaccine technique that induces antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 by boosting antigen production. In animal studies, the treatment successfully produced antibodies against the virus within a month.
Vaccine researchers testing human hookworm vaccines in Brazil
Scientists have developed a controlled human hookworm infection model to accelerate vaccine development, with the goal of preventing infections that affect 576-740 million people worldwide. The study will evaluate two lead vaccine antigens and assess their efficacy in a phase II trial.
Beating HIV and COVID-19 may depend on tweaking vaccine molecules
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discover that high-valency antigens can lead to a more-is-better immune system reaction, while low-valency antigens result in a smaller, more targeted B cell response. The study suggests that selecting antigens with the right valency will depend on the disease being targeted.
Flexible targets help immune system make finely-tuned antibodies
Researchers discovered that when the foreign antigen is more flexible, the germinal centre can employ a greater number of evolution strategies to make antibodies that bind foreign but not self-molecules. The study provides new insights for vaccine design and may help address the major roadblock in generating effective HIV vaccines.
SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020
Vaccine developed for human herpesvirus 6B (HHV-6B)
A new vaccine candidate has been developed for HHV-6B, a virus that causes exanthem subitum in infants. The vaccine targets the gH/gL/gQ1/gQ2 complex and induces strong immunity against the virus. Animal experiments have shown that the vaccine prevents HHV-6B infection and activates dendritic cells to induce innate immunity.
Partner selection ultimately happens in the woman's reproductive tract
Researchers found that women's reproductive secretions have a stronger effect on sperm performance in HLA dissimilar male-female combinations, indicating post-mating sexual selection. The study suggests that fertilization capability is dependent on immunogenetic compatibility between partners.
Intranasal vaccine platform has potential for more effective vaccines, fewer side effects
A new study demonstrates the potential of an intranasal vaccine platform using self-assembling peptide nanofibers tagged with antigens, inducing an immune response and activating T cells without adjuvants. This technology offers a safer and more effective alternative for generating long-lasting immunity against diseases.
2020 Michelson Prizes support groundbreaking research by young scientists
The Michelson Prizes support the innovative work of Dr. Danika Hill and Dr. Michael Birnbaum on discovering targets for long-lived humoral immunity and identifying specific antigens in HIV vaccines.
A micro-lab on a chip detects blood type within minutes
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science developed a fully automated micro-lab on a chip that can quickly and reliably determine a patient's blood type. The device can dilute whole blood automatically and detect weak coagulation with the naked eye, holding potential for use in emergency medical situations.
Neonatal exposure to antigens of commensal bacteria promotes broader immune repertoire
A mouse study found that early exposure to vaccine- or microbiota-derived antigens significantly affects antibody diversity in adults. B-1 B cells, a subset of immune cells, were found to have diverse antibody responses in mice with normal gut microbiota versus those grown in sterile germ-free conditions.
Engineers use 'DNA origami' to identify vaccine design rules
Researchers used DNA origami to create virus-like particles coated with HIV proteins, eliciting a strong immune response from human B cells. The study found that the optimal spacing between antigens is wider than previously thought, contradicting common assumptions.
The SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain may provide a specific and sensitive target for population
A new analysis confirms SARS-CoV-2 RBD as a specific target for antibody tests, with over 95% of patients developing antibodies within nine days. This suggests that RBD-based antigens could be used to estimate SARS-CoV-2 recovery rates and inform pandemic policies.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Immunology·DateJun 11, 2020
New antigen test for detecting COVID-19 could help triage patients during the pandemic
A new 15-minute antigen test for COVID-19 has shown high accuracy in detecting infected patients, potentially helping to identify new outbreak foci and implement quarantine measures. The test could also help screen healthcare workers and populations in low-income countries where molecular assays are limited.
Duke awarded NSF rapid grant to develop fast diagnostic test for COVID-19
Researchers have developed a fast and low-cost diagnostic test using inkjet-printed antibodies, potentially reducing coronavirus testing wait times to 30 minutes. The D4 assay tool has shown promise in detecting SARS-Cov-2 antigens with high accuracy, making it a promising solution for point-of-care diagnosis.
New high-throughput approach yields libraries of probes for immunological assays
A new method developed by UC Santa Cruz researchers allows for the creation of libraries of probes for high-throughput assessments of T cell repertoires in blood samples. This technology has the potential to accelerate research and diagnostics in immunology, cancer immunotherapy, and COVID-19 response.
Mouse study shows 'chaperone protein' protects against autoimmune diseases
Researchers discovered a key role for H2-O chaperone protein in protecting the immune system from autoimmunity, which causes diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. The study found that the absence of H2-O disrupted normal helper T cell function, leading to autoimmune reactions.
Mason researchers Narayanan and Veneziano receive funding to build better vaccines
Researchers Aarthi Narayanan and Remi Veneziano at George Mason University are developing a new vaccine design using DNA origami to deliver viral antigens. The customizability of the DNA structures enhances immunogenic potential while ensuring safety.
New research uncovers improvements in vaccines against meningitis
A new study has identified key mutations that affect Factor H binding protein (FHbp) on the surface of the meningococcus bacterium, which could lead to improved vaccines. The findings have major implications for current meningococcal group B vaccines, Trumenba and Bexsero.
Hiring antibodies as nanotechnology builders
A team of researchers at the University of Rome Tor Vergata has developed a novel approach to build and dismantle DNA nanostructures using antibodies. They engineered DNA bricks with recognition tags that assemble in the presence of specific antibodies, enabling the creation of intelligent nanostructures with potential applications in ...
Study reveals dynamics of crucial immune system proteins
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have worked out the details of key molecular interactions involved in antigen selection and processing by MHC-I proteins. The new findings help explain puzzling differences among MHC-I proteins and suggest ways to manipulate them for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 3, 2019
An additional component can triple vaccine efficiency, and scientists explained how
Scientists found that azoximer bromide increases the immunogenicity of anti-flu vaccines by tripling their efficiency. The study showed that this adjuvant helps the development of humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.
ORNL scientists shed light on microbial 'dark matter' with new approach
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a method to isolate specific microbes from complex human oral microbiome samples using antibody engineering. They successfully isolated three different species of TM7 and another uncultivated bacterial group, SR1.
Predicting mismatch in kidney transplants
Researchers developed a kidney transplant risk model combining data from kidney donor registries, statistics of probable genetic profiles, and immunological knowledge to improve predictions of donor-recipient match. The study suggests that incorporating partial antigen match data can further enhance the accuracy of the model.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2019
RTS,S vaccine could favor the acquisition of natural immunity against malaria
A study led by ISGlobal found that vaccination with RTS,S increases levels of antibodies recognizing 'P. falciparum' antigens not included in the vaccine, potentially leading to natural immunity. This effect was observed mainly in regions with low to moderate transmission levels.