Articles tagged with Retroviruses
Scientists have developed a monoclonal antibody to combat life-threatening inflammatory diseases like sepsis and ARDS. The antibody shows promise in blocking the immune system's hyperactive response and restoring healthy function without unwanted side effects.
Researchers from Kumamoto University identified a genetic 'silencer' element that keeps the human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) in a dormant state, evading immune detection. This discovery offers hope for new therapeutic approaches to treat HTLV-1 and potentially even HIV.
Researchers have identified treatments to suppress transmission of HTLV-1 virus in mice using existing HIV drugs. The study also discovered a new drug target and selective killing method for infected cells, offering promising prospects for treatment and prevention.
A major clinical trial has identified ensitrelvir as an effective medication to prevent symptomatic COVID-19 in people exposed within households. The trial showed a 67% reduction in risk of illness among participants taking the antiviral compared to those given a placebo.
Researchers at ISTA have decoded the structure of HTLV-1 using Cryo-Electron Tomography, revealing a distinct viral lattice that differs from other retroviruses. This discovery could pave the way for novel treatment approaches to combat HTLV-1 infections, which affect 5-10 million people worldwide.
Research reveals that ancient viruses can play a critical role in helping cancer survive and thrive. Silencing certain endogenous retroviruses may make cancer treatments work better by turning off nearby gene expression.
Researchers found ancient giant viruses woven into single-celled organism's genetic code, sparking new understanding of virus-host interaction and potential evolutionary benefits.
Researchers discover HIV uses its capsid to bypass cellular defenses and transport genetic material into the cell nucleus. The 'smart' FG phase of the nuclear envelope allows the capsid to slide through, concealing the genomic payload from anti-viral sensors.
Researchers discover a virus, MERVL, plays a critical role in embryonic development by regulating gene expression and ensuring smooth transition from totipotency to pluripotency. This finding has significant implications for regenerative medicine and artificial embryo creation.
A new molecular compound has been identified that can activate latent HIV-1 in cells, showing promise for HIV treatments. Researchers found that this compound, YSE028, can reactivate latently infected cells and induce cell death, potentially leading to a complete cure for HIV.
A study by CU Boulder researchers suggests that the ancient virus-like protein PEG10 may contribute to the development of ALS by interfering with brain and nerve cell communication. The findings provide a promising new target for treating the underlying cause of the fatal disease.
Researchers found that remnants of ancient retroviruses in the human genome can be targeted by antibodies to improve lung cancer treatment. The study suggests that boosting antibody responses could help predict patient response to immunotherapy and lead to improved outcomes.
Research at Kobe University reveals that endogenous retrovirus activation increases a fetus's susceptibility to autism, leading to differences in brain structure and behavior. The study identifies BTBR/R mice as a more accurate model of autism, exhibiting autistic-like behaviors without reduced learning ability.
Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University investigated the safety of anti-VEGF drug Aflibercept in a cell culture model exposed to HTLV-1. The study found that treatment did not increase pro-viral load or proliferation of RPE cells, suggesting potential for intraocular use.
The study reveals diverse retroviruses in mouse lemurs, closely related to viruses in polar bears and domestic sheep, suggesting ancient infections. The discovery of endogenous retroviruses in these species provides new insights into the complex history of retroviral transmission among mammals.
Researchers discovered host proteins APOBEC3 can aid HIV's latency, a major hurdle to cure research. The finding raises questions about the role of these proteins and potential ways to block their activity to inhibit viral persistence.
Researchers investigated Aicardi-Goutières syndrome and found that viral RNA recognition drives uncontrolled interferon production. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells due to the failure of safety mechanisms to distinguish between viral and host genetic material.
Researchers found that ancient viral DNA in the human genome can act as antivirals, protecting human cells against certain viruses. The study, published in Science, provides proof of principle for this effect and reveals a potential genome defense system.
Researchers found shared endogenous retroviruses among all individual birds, suggesting most retrovirus-host interactions pre-date host speciation. The study also reveals considerable ERV variation across different populations, indicating recent retrovirus colonization.
Researchers from Uppsala University have identified new inherited retroviruses in the koala genome, including novel ERV lineages related to the squirrel monkey retrovirus. These findings provide a potential model for studying retroviral establishment and health effects in real-time.
Researchers discovered that ancient retroviruses embedded in human genome can undergo retrotransposition into iPS cells, potentially posing a risk for regenerative medicine. The study found that HERV-K is expressed in SOX2-expressing cells and may cause cancer and neurological diseases by altering gene expression profiles.
A team of scientists from the University of Pittsburgh and National Cancer Institute discovered why HIV is rarely the direct cause of cancer. The research found that it requires a specific series of events involving changes in HIV and additional mutations in human genes, resulting in T cell lymphomas. However, the occurrence is rare, a...
Researchers identified an internal communication network in mammals that regulates tissue repair and inflammation. Endogenous retroviruses control this dialogue, affecting the host immune system and antimicrobial defenses.
Researchers discovered that retroviruses in koala genomes contribute to elevated cancer rates, with infected cells containing multiple copies of the virus. The study highlights the detrimental health consequences of germline infection by retroviruses and underscores the need for conservation efforts.
A commentary article exposes COVID-19 conspiracy theories linked to Dr. Judy Mikovits' fraudulent research, highlighting the dangers of such misinformation. The journal AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses has spoken out against the spread of false information on social media platforms.
Eastern Australian bats harbor diverse KoRV-related viruses, with metagenomic analysis revealing their presence in multiple species. The discovery of a novel retrovirus, Hervey pteropid gammaretrovirus (HPG), suggests that bats can actively reproduce retroviruses.
Researchers at UMass Medical School and the University of Queensland identified a novel genetic defense system in koalas that controls retrovirus production through germline cells. This innate genome immune response recognizes viral RNAs via anti-sense piRNAs, suppressing assembly of viral particles.
Researchers found a 1% average decrease in bone mineral density in the spine and 0.5% decline in hip among Truvada PrEP users with daily adherence. This lower-than-expected risk suggests that young, healthy individuals on Truvada for PrEP have only a minimal risk of decreased bone density.
A new study reveals that testosterone use can significantly increase bone mineral density (BMD) in HIV-infected men. In particular, testosterone was associated with a higher BMD score at the lumbar spine in virologically suppressed individuals.
Researchers from Uppsala University have identified previously unknown retroviral insertions in European rabbits, shedding light on how ERVs spread in host populations. The study reveals substantial variation across ERV insertions in different rabbit populations, providing a genomic record of retrovirus-host associations.
Researchers have identified key stages in the process of endogenization, by which host genomes defend against invading retroviruses. The study found that recombination between viral sequences and host genomic elements can incapacitate new viral sequences, making them less harmful.
Scientists found that an ancient and unrelated endogenous retroviral element is inserting itself into the new retrovirus via recombination, deactivating it. This process may be a molecular defense mechanism of hosts against new retroviral attacks.
Researchers identified over 8,000 endogenous retroviruses in 72 fish species, 4 amphibians, and 16 reptiles, greatly expanding the known diversity of retroviruses. The study suggests that retroviruses frequently switched between hosts and originated from aquatic environments.
A recent study has confirmed that the spleen acts as an HIV sanctuary, hiding the virus from detection even when antiretroviral therapy is effective. Researchers also explore natural products with therapeutic compounds and gather insights on people living with HIV's perceptions of cure-related research.
A small study of nine AIDS patients treated with traditional Chinese herbal medicine for over a decade resulted in undetectable or low viral loads, sparking potential interest in TCM as a functional cure. The findings suggest that these observations warrant further exploration by the HIV research community.
Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the causes of accelerated aging in HIV-infected individuals. Studies suggest that statins may be effective in reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health. The findings aim to shed light on the negative health consequences of HIV, including premature aging.
A study by Lund University researchers reveals that retroviruses in the human genome can affect gene expression, potentially contributing to brain development and neurological diseases. The viruses, known as endogenous retroviruses, can act as docking platforms for proteins like TRIM28, influencing protein production.
New research reveals that retroviruses, including HIV, have been present on Earth for at least 450 million years, originating together with vertebrate hosts in the early Paleozoic era. This finding sheds light on the evolutionary history of these medically important viruses and their ongoing interactions with host immunity.
Researchers have solved the atomic structure of HIV's intasome, a key piece of machinery that integrates virus into human DNA. The discovery provides structural clues informing the development of new HIV drugs and sheds light on mechanisms of viral resistance.
Researchers found that retroviral genes are essential for placenta development and contribute to male muscle mass. In mice, the inactivation of syncytins led to a fusion deficit during muscle growth, resulting in smaller fibers and less effective regeneration in males.
A study by University of Minnesota researchers has identified distinct structural features among seven types of retroviruses, including HIV and HTLV-1. The findings could inform the development of new antiviral treatments and vaccines for various diseases caused by these viruses.
A special issue of the journal AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses highlights recent advances in HIV cure research, including studies on viral suppression and control of virus replication. Researchers discuss potential avenues for achieving a cure and propose exploring multiple approaches to therapy.
A study published in AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses found that 18% of overweight adults on ART became obese, and 22% of those with normal BMI became overweight. The study suggests a higher risk of additional health complications for HIV-infected individuals.
Scientists have found that the cGAS sensor can detect single-stranded DNA, including guanosines, which triggers a strong immune response. The HI virus has evolved to eliminate guanosines from its genetic material, partially avoiding detection by the cell.
Uruguayan researchers have observed the three-dimensional structure of the capsid of Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV) with high resolution, revealing its flexibility and key regions. This breakthrough can lead to new antiviral medicines for diseases caused by retroviruses.
Research found that humans have fewer endogenous retroviruses than other animals, likely due to reduced blood contact. This decrease could be attributed to human evolution using tools instead of biting during conflicts.
Researchers are exploring innovative approaches to combat HIV latency, including shock-and-kill strategies and monoclonal antibody-based drugs. These novel therapies aim to eradicate latent viral reservoirs, a key challenge in achieving an HIV cure.
Researchers found that endogenous retroviruses, constituting around 5% of human DNA, regulate gene expression and have an important regulatory role in the brain. The study suggests that viruses take a firm hold on cellular machinery over evolution, leading to complex brain functions.
In a unique account, Timothy Ray Brown describes his experience as the first person cured of HIV through a stem cell transplant. He shares the details of the bold experiment that used a donor resistant to HIV infection. The 'Berlin patient' offers a rare glimpse into the human side of this groundbreaking treatment.
Researchers analyzed endogenous retroviruses to understand long-term interactions between viruses and hosts, finding that retroviruses are widespread across vertebrates and can switch among distantly related hosts.
Researchers found that endogenous retroviruses play a critical role in the body's immune defense against common bacterial and viral pathogens. The ERV DNA can activate B cells to produce protective antibodies, suggesting that these viruses have an 'physiological' function.
A case study published in AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses suggests that HIV transmission via shared manicure instruments is possible. Genetic analysis indicates a common viral ancestor between two patients, supporting the theory of transmission through infected equipment.
Scientists discovered 39 different koala retroviruses passed down from parent to offspring, offering insights into the human viral lineage and koala conservation. The study found that these retroviruses integrated into the host genome less than 50,000 years ago and are linked to health issues in koalas.
Researchers have discovered that HIV can infect the entire female reproductive tract, including the vagina and ovaries, in a macaque model. The study used an artificial virus to track the spread of infection through the FRT, revealing that infected cells were detected throughout the tract within 48 hours after vaginal introduction.
A new algorithm-based method uses EMR data to identify patients with newly diagnosed HIV infection, improving clinical outcomes. The method was validated and tested on patients undergoing HIV testing from 2006-2012.
Chronic THC administration has been shown to increase survival of T cell populations and reduce overall cell death in the gut of monkeys infected with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV). This finding suggests that marijuana may have a protective effect against HIV-related inflammation and disease progression.
A recent study by Uppsala University researchers mapped nearly 90,000 ERVs from 60 host genomes, revealing a host reservoir for one group of retroviruses with rampant host switching throughout history. This finding adds credence to the possibility that many additional retroviruses may remain to be discovered in vertebrate species.
Researchers have characterised new sequences of endogenous retroviruses in polar bears and pandas, dating back 45 million years. The viruses are suspected to play a role in human diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
The pig genome has been mapped, providing insights into the evolution of domesticated pigs and their relationship to wild boars. The study reveals that domestication occurred nearly 10,000 years ago in several independent locations across Europe and Asia.
Researchers found millions of years ago birds were host to many different kinds of viruses, serving as a melting pot where viruses recombined and shared genetic information. The study suggests avian retroviral evolution differs from other vertebrates.