Research on the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself. Covers antiviral trials, antibody neutralization, viral escape, and rapid detection methods.
Researchers have identified hundreds of tiny llama antibodies called nanobodies that target the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, which current therapies do not address. Combining these nanobodies into cocktails could create potent treatments against new variants, including Omicron.
A study examining autopsy tissue samples from COVID-19 patients found frequent and extensive blood clots within heart vessels, but no typical endothelial cell changes. Instead, hypercoagulability of the blood caused by activated neutrophils was detected as a likely culprit.
Researchers at Drexel University found a 61% decline in new COVID-19 cases after closing indoor dining during the first two waves of the pandemic. Closing indoor dining could be a tool to curb the spread of new variants globally, alongside other measures such as vaccination and social distancing.
Researchers at Hokkaido University and Texas A¼M University identified a key mechanism used by SARS-CoV-2 to evade host immune systems, targeting the MHC class I pathway. The study found that the virus suppresses the activation of this pathway using the ORF6 protein, allowing it to persist in the body and infect others.
A recent study suggests that severe COVID-19 may cause long-term damage to the testes, leading to reduced sperm count and quality. The virus's interaction with testicular cells and potential effects on fertility are being explored through an experimental framework.
Researchers report that combining infection and vaccination produces high-quality antibodies effective against COVID-19 variants. The study found that prior-infected individuals who received a vaccine had potent antibodies against new variants, contrary to previous findings suggesting reduced potency.
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.
A study found that obesity is associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes, including hospital admission or death. Additionally, accelerated immunosenescence may be a key mechanism explaining the relationship between obesity and T2DM in severe COVID-19. Vaccination effectiveness may also be impacted by metabolic disorders.
Researchers have discovered miniature antibodies derived from llamas that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, including Delta and Omicron. The nanobodies' small size allows them to access hard-to-reach spots on the virus, making them a potential treatment against future variants.
Researchers find SARS-CoV-2 infects sustentacular cells in the olfactory epithelium of COVID-19 patients, replicating vigorously within these cells. The virus does not appear to infect nerve cells, instead affecting sensory neurons indirectly through insufficient support from sustentacular cells.
Heidelberg researchers have created a rapid process for 3D imaging of cells using soft X-ray tomography, enabling high-resolution images in just five to ten minutes. This technology provides valuable insights into viral diseases and their impact on infected cells.
A new chewing gum infused with plant-grown ACE2 protein can neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 virus in saliva, potentially reducing transmission risk. The gum, developed by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, was tested on saliva samples from COVID-19 patients and found to significantly reduce viral load.
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.
A study by Imperial College London found that the first SARS-CoV-2 spike protein encountered through vaccination or infection influences subsequent immune responses to current and future variants. This 'immune imprinting' affects the rate of decay of protection and impacts antibody levels over time.
Researchers at Georgia State University have developed a new candidate antiviral drug, 4’-FlU, which shows potent activity against SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory RNA viruses. The study demonstrates that 4’-FlU induces termination of the viral polymerase, aborting replication and offering a strong therapeutic asset.
Researchers found that damaged telomeres increase the expression of ACE2, the human SARS-CoV-2 cell receptor, leading to increased viral susceptibility in the elderly. This DNA damage response is triggered by telomere shortening and dysfunction in aging cells.
A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens found that the COVID-19 Delta variant may have a reduced ability to be neutralized by vaccines. The researchers analyzed serum samples from vaccinated individuals and found that the Delta variant was more effective at evading vaccine-induced immunity than other variants, such as Beta and Alpha.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified likely mutations that would allow the virus to evade immune defenses, including natural immunity and vaccine-developed antibodies. The study provides important clues about areas of concern with omicron variant and serves as a primer for future variants.
The study found that the Moderna vaccine offered a lower risk of documented infection (21% reduced), symptomatic COVID-19 (44% reduced), hospitalization (55% reduced), ICU admission (10% reduced), and death (2% reduced) compared to the Pfizer vaccine. The results suggest that either vaccine is effective, but Moderna may be slightly mor...
A recent study by Colorado State University researchers found that COVID-19 can evolve and spread rapidly among animal species after infection from humans. The team analyzed mutation types occurring in cats, dogs, ferrets, and hamsters, discovering a broad range of viral variants that emerged and became prevalent.
The study found that indoor bars, private parties, and nightclubs were high-risk places for transmitting the Delta variant, with men being more susceptible. Previous infection conferred a 95% protective effect, while two doses of mRNA vaccines provided 67% protection against symptomatic infection.
A new computational tool allows precise prediction of protein interfaces for COVID-19 and human interactions. This breakthrough enables researchers to better understand virus development, identify high-risk populations, and develop targeted drugs.
Researchers at Université de Montréal developed a statistical model using blood biomarkers to predict which patients are most at risk of dying from COVID-19. The model is based on the amount of viral RNA in the blood and has been validated on two independent cohorts, showing high predictive accuracy.
Researchers at Duke University have identified chemical compounds that can latch onto the coronavirus's 3D RNA structures and block replication. The compounds, which target the virus's RNA specifically, offer a new mechanism of action against COVID-19.
Researchers found that COVID-19 infection in mothers leads to distinct immune changes in babies, including altered cytokine profiles and T cell responses. The study also identified potential correlations with clinical complications such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction.
A new statistical analysis supports the notion that COVID-19 became more lethal in the UK in late 2020, with increased lethality attributed to factors beyond just the alpha variant of the virus. The study used Bayesian inference to draw stronger conclusions from weekly data on cases and deaths.
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.
Pathologists have discovered that some patients with lingering COVID-19 symptoms may have underlying chronic lung disease prior to their infection. This finding suggests that clinicians should carefully consider alternative explanations for respiratory symptoms beyond long COVID.
The Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 has become the dominant virus form in Benin, West Africa, with over 60% of cases linked to the variant. Vaccination campaigns are crucial to combat the spread, as only 1% of the population is vaccinated.
Researchers from Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia have developed a new precision strategy to hinder coronavirus infection by blocking the ACE2 receptor. The study, published in Pharmacological Research, reveals two anti-K353 aptamers that dose-dependently inhibit viral spike protein binding to human ACE2, preventing cell infection.
A study of 2.5 million people found lower COVID-19 infection rates among those with schizophrenia and mood disorders, but higher death rates. The analysis suggests that underlying mental health conditions may impact COVID-19 outcomes.
Researchers found coronaviruses closely related to SARS-CoV-2 in Shamel's horseshoe bats sampled in 2010. The discovery suggests a wider geographic distribution of the virus and its potential spillover from bat-borne viruses. Surveillance in Southeast Asia is crucial for pandemic preparedness.
A real-world study of BBV152 found that two doses resulted in 50% effectiveness against symptomatic COVID-19 in hospital workers. The study's findings support the importance of a second dose for maximum protection, but highlight limitations in estimating vaccine effectiveness against severe outcomes.
UC San Diego researchers developed a computer model to understand how viruses travel through the air, shedding new light on airborne COVID-19 transmission. The model simulates aerosol behavior and helps explain why SARS-CoV-2 is highly transmissible through the air.
Previous antibody responses to harmless coronaviruses contribute to SARS-CoV-2 immunity, reducing infection severity and hospitalization rates. Researchers found that people with strong immune responses to other human coronaviruses have some protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Researchers found that wet masks make it more difficult for respiratory droplets to penetrate and escape the mask, splintering into smaller aerosolized particles. This is because wet masks create additional resistance due to their hydrophobic or hydrophilic materials, making them more effective at stopping droplet penetration.
Researchers from Osaka University found that over half of intensive care workers experienced moral distress during the pandemic due to limited communication with patients and families. Virtual communication and psychological support were identified as potential solutions to prevent burnout and ensure proper medical care.
A Rutgers study found that COVID-19 saliva testing kits with a preservative can accurately measure the oral microbiome, which may lead to new treatments for lung health in people with COVID-19. The study collected saliva samples from participants and compared their ability to measure microbes before and after COVID-19 infection.
Researchers at UArizona Health Sciences will lead a statewide effort to study the long-term effects of COVID-19, with a focus on identifying risks and developing approaches for treatment and prevention. The study aims to understand the basis of prolonged symptoms and improve recovery outcomes.
A study found that individuals under 65 had higher antibody levels than those over 65, with women outperforming men. However, by six months post-vaccination, antibody levels dropped significantly for everyone in the study group.
People taking immunosuppressants, especially TNF inhibitors, have a weaker antibody response to COVID-19 vaccines. A third dose can drive antibody levels back up, but the duration is unknown.
Scientists at the University of Nottingham found a plant-based antiviral treatment to be effective in blocking the highly infectious SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant. The novel natural antiviral drug, thapsigargin, was shown to trigger a broad-spectrum host-centred antiviral innate immune response against all variants of the virus.
A new study suggests that unborn babies could contract Covid-19 if their gut is exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, researchers say that this risk is extremely limited due to the placenta's protective shield. Vaccination against Covid-19 during pregnancy is still recommended as a way to protect the unborn baby.
A mathematical model suggests that SARS-CoV-2 Delta-like variants, which combine enhanced transmissibility and partial immune escape, will cause more severe pandemics than variants with either trait alone. Vaccination is predicted to be highly beneficial in these cases, preventing more infections and breakthroughs.
Research team discovered mRNA vaccines induce antibodies recognizing Spike and N protein fragments, potentially leading to misclassified breakthrough infections. The study suggests using multiple viral antigens for accurate detection of vaccine effectiveness.
A new mRNA vaccine, CV2CoV, has demonstrated a ten-fold higher antibody response and significantly improved protective efficacy against COVID-19 compared to the original CVnCoV. The second-generation vaccine induced antigen-specific memory B cell responses and T cell responses in non-human primates.
A recent study estimates that between 700,000 and 1.6 million US individuals have experienced a lasting loss or change in their sense of smell due to SARS-CoV-2. The analysis suggests that these individuals may be experiencing chronic COVID-19-related olfactory dysfunction.
A new study found that host immunity drives the evolution of the dengue virus, causing it to adapt and change over time. The research, published in Science, analyzed genetic variation and immune signatures of dengue viruses isolated in Bangkok over a 20-year period.
A retrospective study suggests disulfiram, a treatment for alcoholism, reduces SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence by 34% and COVID-19 deaths by 3%. Further randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm the findings and understand the mechanism of action.
A study found that long-term exposure to air pollution increases the risk of developing COVID-19 symptoms, especially among older men and those living in poverty. However, no association was found between infection and exposure to air pollutants.
A study of 18 COVID-19 patients found that SARS-CoV-2 damages lung tissue by preventing repair and generating healthy tissue, leading to conditions like diffuse alveolar damage. The data may help develop new therapeutics and inform treatment strategies for high-risk patients.
A new vaccine combines the part of the 'spike' protein with a combination adjuvant, inducing full protection in aged mice and potentially equivalent to current mRNA vaccines. The formulation is relatively easy to manufacture and may not require extreme cold storage, enabling its use in more settings.
A large study of UK patients found a significant association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and subsequent psychiatric illness, fatigue, and sleep problems. The research used health records of over 12 million patients to examine the relationship between COVID-19 and mental health issues.
Scientists are using peptide nucleic acids to study SARS-CoV-2 RNA pseudoknots, a crucial mechanism for viral replication and translation. Understanding this process could lead to new methods to disrupt it, potentially leading to more effective treatments.
A new study used machine learning to predict the zoonotic capacity of 5,400 mammal species, identifying those at high risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2. The model, which combined data on biological traits with ACE2 receptor information, predicted 72% accuracy and identified numerous additional species with potential to transmit the virus.
Researchers found that CD4+ T lymphocytes — immune system cells — produced by people who received COVID-19 vaccines persisted at high levels six months after vaccination, with a significant response against the delta variant. The study also showed that vaccine-elicited fighters recognize and help attack coronavirus delta variant.
A study by Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf analyzed viral sequences from Gambia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal, finding distinct patterns of SARS-CoV-2 variants. The researchers believe genetic drift mechanisms, such as the founder effect, may contribute to these variations.
A team of researchers at the University of Cambridge found that an air filtration machine removed almost all traces of airborne SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 wards. The study suggests that setting standards for cleaner air could reduce the risk of airborne transmission of infections.
A study analyzing data from 109 COVID-19 patients found that obesity is the key factor associated with endothelial dysfunction, a condition increasing heart attack and stroke risk. The results suggest an 17% higher cardiovascular risk for obese patients compared to those of normal weight.
Researchers at Rice University developed a method to decontaminate disposable surgical masks by heating them to 70 degrees Celsius, eliminating 99.9% of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and preserving mask material. The study provides promise for adapting this protocol to future outbreaks.