Articles tagged with Sars Cov 2
Researchers aim to understand why up to 80% of individuals experience temporary or lasting changes in their sense of taste after COVID-19. Preliminary data suggests ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are highly expressed in taste buds, which may explain why these are common targets for the virus.
Researchers found early and persistent activation of neutrophils in patients who developed severe COVID-19. The study suggests that identifying specific gene signatures could lead to effective treatments targeting high-risk patients. This discovery may also inform the development of simple blood tests to prioritize treatment.
Research found a significant drop in new cancer diagnoses during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for screening cancers like breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer. The study estimates around 12,600 cancers went undetected between March 2020 and September 2020.
A new study found that severe COVID-19 illness is associated with increased risk of long-term adverse mental health effects. Non-hospitalized patients with a SARS-CoV-2 infection were more likely to experience depressive symptoms up to 16 months after diagnosis, with those bedridden for seven days or more having higher rates of depress...
Researchers at Rice University developed a new program called Variabel to accurately identify 'low-frequency' variants of the virus that causes COVID-19. By distinguishing true variants from sequencing errors, Variabel enables rapid characterization of within-host variation, which could aid in discovering future mutations.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet and Helmholtz Center Munich found that macrophages show altered inflammatory and metabolic expression several months after mild COVID-19. Even though most individuals were symptom-free, their immune systems were more sensitive than those of healthy counterparts.
A comprehensive review of over 60 studies confirms that COVID vaccination is around 80% effective in protecting people with cancer against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The mRNA vaccines were found to be the most effective, and multiple vaccinations are recommended for better protection.
Research team finds mutations leading to omicron variant don't affect immune response in people with pre-existing immunity. This suggests individuals who were previously infected or vaccinated may still be protected against breakthrough infections, but humoral immunity may fail.
Scientists have successfully modified red blood cells to transport viral agents that trigger the immune system against SARS-CoV-2. The new method, described in PLOS ONE, shows promise as a safe and effective vaccine delivery platform with potential for rapid adaptation to emerging variants.
Aled Edwards emphasizes the importance of basic and applied research in developing effective COVID-19 vaccines. He also stresses the need for better vaccination implementation, increased global access to vaccines, and a cultural shift towards viewing access to new medicines as a right rather than an asset.
The investigational vaccine targets both the spike and nucleocapsid proteins, producing neutralizing antibodies and inducing T cell responses against SARS-CoV-2. COH04S1 is being studied in Phase 2 trials for immunocompromised patients and as a booster for healthy adult volunteers.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitalization rates for non-SARS-CoV-2 conditions increased significantly among Medicare beneficiaries. The study found that these rates rose by over 50% compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai have identified a potential new therapy for COVID-19, created by reengineered human skin cells. The substance, dubbed ASTEX, stops SARS-CoV-2 from reproducing itself and protects infected cells in human lung cell samples.
Researchers found that tannic acid targets the RBD protein and enzymes involved in viral entry and replication, suggesting its potential as a preventative or therapeutic agent. The polyphenol's low toxicity and anti-inflammatory properties make it an attractive alternative to existing antivirals.
Scientists have developed an unusual toolbox using quantum physics and molecular mapping to monitor SARS-CoV-2's spike protein. The approach aims to improve diagnosis, variant risk assessment, and treatment by identifying hotspots in the genome where highly-infectious mutations emerge.
Researchers developed new antimicrobial technology for air filters that can kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses in seconds. The treatment was tested on trains and found to be effective in killing SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses, including E. coli and C. albicans.
Stimulating the RNA receptor RIG-I improves protection against lethal SARS-CoV-2 infections, reducing disease progression and severe cases. The study's findings suggest a promising approach for treating COVID-19.
A study found that severe COVID-19 infections in older adults increased the risk of cognitive decline. Researchers in Wuhan, China analyzed data from discharged patients aged 60 and above, revealing a significant association between SARS-CoV-2 infection severity and cognitive changes.
A research team has discovered how the Covid virus reproduces itself by taking over the cell's protein factory. The team identified a specific structure in viral mRNA that allows the virus to access the ribosome and produce its own proteins, while blocking cellular production. This discovery opens up new avenues for antiviral treatments.
A study evaluating Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness found significant protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection in adolescents. The vaccine was administered in two doses to 542 participants between 12 and 18 years old, demonstrating high efficacy.
The study reveals the Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 directly binds exogeneous sialic acids, providing a new understanding of the virus's infection mechanism. This discovery opens up new therapeutic opportunities by targeting this interaction.
Researchers found that sugar-decorated proteins in mucus can bind to the coronavirus, keeping it from infecting cells. This discovery may explain why SARS-CoV-2 is more likely to spread through airborne droplets rather than surface transmission.
A research team at TUM has successfully used specific enzymes to destroy the genetic information of SARS-CoV-2 directly after it penetrates the cell. The study found that targeting the viral genome with siRNAs is most effective when the virus has just penetrated into the cell.
A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that a domestic cat was infected with the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant, but without significant genetic changes. This discovery highlights the virus's ability to infect a wide range of hosts and raises questions about its evolution in different species.
Research reveals SARS-CoV-2 can have multiple variants in one person, with some hiding in specific cells like kidneys or spleens. This can make complete virus clearance more difficult, as the body struggles to defend against dominant strains.
Mutations in SARS-CoV-2's spike protein can resist neutralizing antibodies and therapeutics, highlighting the need for improved vaccines and treatments. The study mapped out these 'escape variants' to understand their molecular mechanisms.
Researchers found that two-dose mRNA vaccines against the original and early variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus offer little to no protection against the omicron variant. A third COVID-19 mRNA vaccine booster shot, however, enhances immune response and provides comparable protection to the delta variant.
A new study from Oregon Health & Science University found that people infected with SARS-CoV-2 develop durable immunity against variants for at least 11 months. The research suggests that immune protection may endure long-term, potentially reducing the need for vaccine booster shots.
Researchers found that Neem bark components target a wide range of viral proteins, suggesting its potential as an antiviral agent against emerging coronavirus variants. The study showed the bark extract was effective in reducing virus replication and spread in SARS-CoV-2 human lung cells.
A new study found that bovine lactoferrin, a protein in cow milk, is effective against various SARS-CoV-2 variants, including the WA1, B.1.1.7, and Delta variants. The research suggests that bovine lactoferrin could be used as a preventive or post-exposure treatment for COVID-19.
The article suggests a potential treatment option for COVID-19 by targeting SARS-CoV-2's interaction with ACE2 receptors. Combining DPP4 inhibitors and spironolactone may mitigate COVID-19 complications and infections without adverse side effects.
Scientists identified 16 compounds that affect SARS-CoV-2 enzymes Mpro and PLpro, which are essential for viral replication. The team found that combining Mpro and PLpro inhibitors has an additive antiviral effect, providing greater inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication. These findings offer hope for developing new COVID-19 treatments t...
A UC Riverside-led study has identified a potential antiviral therapy for SARS and SARS-like coronaviruses by targeting the papain-like protease enzyme. The research reveals that subgroup 2b PLpros selectively target specific host immune pathways, making them a promising target for future coronavirus therapeutics.
Researchers have found that SARS-CoV-2 variants can emerge more quickly than expected, driven by a short-lived increase in mutation rate. This phenomenon was observed in variants such as Delta, which emerged within six weeks of its ancestral form.
A Brazilian study of 2,777 patients hospitalized between January 5 and September 12, 2021 found that vaccination was the sole predictor of mortality in those over 60 with kidney failure. Vaccination also reduced hospitalization risk among non-vaccinated patients with comorbidities.
A genomic study found that England's 14-day quarantine measures for travelers helped prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2, particularly among 16-20 year olds. The study analyzed contact-tracing data and genome sequences to track the spread of genomes from imported cases.
Researchers have identified larazotide acetate as a promising treatment for multi-inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare but severe condition. The study showed rapid improvement in symptoms and faster resolution of gastrointestinal issues among children treated with the drug, suggesting its potential as an adjuvant therapy.
Researchers developed artificial Sars-CoV-2 virions to study the spike protein's interaction with host cells and its ability to evade the immune system. By understanding this mechanism, they hope to develop targeted therapies and vaccines.
An analysis of pre-Omicron data found that COVID-19 vaccines retain nearly all their ability to prevent severe disease up to six months after full vaccination. Protection against severe COVID-19 dropped by an average of 10 percentage points over the same interval.
A new study from the University of Gothenburg detects SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus particles in microscopically small fluid droplets exhaled by patients with COVID-19. The findings show that a few breaths are sufficient to detect viral RNA, offering potential for easy and convenient breath tests.
A novel technology has been developed for fast and reliable detection of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva samples using a flow virometer that utilizes fluorescent light markers. The device achieved high sensitivity and specificity in a blind test on over 50 patients, outperforming commercial antigen tests.
A new low-cost, portable instrument uses photonic technology to detect SARS-CoV-2 in saliva samples with high sensitivity and speed. The device can measure small quantities of virus like PCR tests but is as fast as rapid antigen tests.
A study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found that reported cases of multi-system inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) in children and adolescents who had received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose were rare. Only one case was estimated per million vaccinated individuals in this age group, according to the CDC.
A new study by Karolinska Institutet reveals that natural killer cells respond to a specific peptide on the surface of infected cells. This peptide triggers an activation response in NK cells carrying the NKG2A receptor, allowing them to kill virus-infected cells.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that the risk of immediate allergic reactions to a second dose of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines is low among patients who experienced an immediate allergic reaction to their first dose. The study included 1,366 patients and showed no significant increase in severe immediate reactions or anaphylaxis.
A new transistor-based technology has been developed to quantify SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies in blood serum and test the efficacy of new vaccines. The device allows for fast and real-time analysis, reducing response times and costs.
Researchers from Aarhus University have identified a unique immune cell called plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDC) that contributes to the body's fight against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The pDCs use two separate alarm systems, TLR7 and TLR2, to recognize viral particles and initiate antiviral and inflammatory responses.
Developed by University of Seville researchers, the new methodology has a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 87.5%. It can detect SARS-CoV-2 in saliva and synthetic viruses with minimal equipment and training.
New study reveals that T-cell responses against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can predict protection against infection. In healthy individuals, T cells with a specific cytokine profile offered immunity against COVID-19. In contrast, cancer patients showed lower T-cell responses and increased susceptibility to infection.
A new review of COVID-19 hospitalization data found no reduction in mortality for patients treated with vitamin D, vitamin C, or zinc. However, treatment with vitamin D may be associated with lower rates of intubation and shorter hospital stays.
A study of 296 children aged 5-14 found that self-collected nasal swabs were effective for COVID-19 surveillance testing. The method was deemed feasible and with minimal errors.
During the first 18 months of the pandemic, Great Britain's subjective wellbeing mirrored death rates, indicating a strong correlation. Lockdowns only had a short-term impact on depressed mood, with effects lasting only three weeks.
A new study from Children's Hospital Los Angeles reveals that parents in low-income communities are more likely to discuss COVID-19 preventative behaviors with their kids, reducing stress for both families. Despite higher risk of infection, these communities exhibit lower rates of worry and disease burden.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a peptide on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that triggers an immune response in humans and is also recognized by cells of the immune system, suggesting potential for protection against future zoonotic outbreaks. The study supports the development of multivalent vaccines against a broad spe...
Researchers analyzed over 1.5 million SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences to understand the evolution of the virus, finding that increased infectivity is a driving force behind its spread. The omicron variant is predicted to compromise current vaccines and therapies, highlighting the need for new generation of vaccines and monoclonal antibodies.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine developed a human nose organoid model that replicates the complex interactions between human cells and viruses. The model showed divergent responses to SARS-CoV-2 and RSV infection, providing insights into disease progression and potential new therapies.
A new study suggests that small respiratory particles can remain moist and airborne for a longer time and greater distance than previously recognized. The mucus shell surrounding these particles likely reduces evaporation rates, keeping viral particles infectious for up to 30 minutes and traveling distances of up to 200 feet.
A new study found COVID-19 hotspots in Canadian cities are concentrated along social determinants of health, including visible minority status. Prioritizing public health supports to specific neighborhoods can help curb transmission and improve pandemic response.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that a third dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine significantly improved protection against severe disease, hospitalization, and death. The study's results suggest that three doses of the vaccine provide greater benefit than two doses in preventing these outcomes.
A new study identifies COVID-19 hotspots in Canadian cities across four provinces, with concentrations of cases linked to social determinants of health such as income, housing and visible minority status. The study calls for city-specific public health supports tailored to communities at disproportionate risk of COVID-19.