Research on the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself. Covers antiviral trials, antibody neutralization, viral escape, and rapid detection methods.
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.
A multi-center study assesses medicinal mushrooms and Chinese herbs for therapeutic benefit in treating acute COVID-19 infection. The MACH-19 trial evaluates the safety and feasibility of two investigational compounds, one in capsule form and another as a Chinese herbal formula.
A new study reveals that 90% of COVID-19 patient rooms have detectable coronavirus on at least one surface, with the virus persisting days later on TV remote controls and nurse call buttons. Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent spread among vulnerable populations.
Researchers investigated the impact of mRNA vaccines on dialysis patients' immunity against Sars-Cov-2 variants. They found that while many produce reactive T cells, protective antibodies are formed less frequently. This immunological memory can be strengthened through vaccination and repeated contact with the pathogen.
Research suggests women with lingering COVID-19 symptoms experience heart rate irregularities during physical exertion, leading to delayed recovery and reduced exercise tolerance. Targeted rehabilitation programs are needed to manage these consequences in women with persistent heart and lung problems.
The BBV152 COVID-19 vaccine demonstrated robust antibody response and induced 77.8% protection against symptomatic COVID-19 in a phase 3 trial. No severe vaccine-related adverse events or deaths were reported among participants.
Researchers have discovered a new target for COVID-19 vaccines that could complement existing vaccines by inducing an immune response against 'replication proteins', essential for the viral cycle. The approach may lead to the creation of a pan-coronaviruses vaccine protecting against SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses.
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.
A Yale team has discovered an RNA molecule, SLR14, that stimulates the body's early antiviral defense system to protect against SARS-CoV-2 variants. This therapy holds promise as a new class of RNA therapeutics for treating COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients.
A large group of patients with diverse cancer types received two doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines or one dose of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, showing modestly impaired immune responses. Booster vaccine doses enhanced immunity in most patients.
Researchers at East Carolina University have discovered a new way to detect SARS-CoV-2 by testing air passing through building ventilation systems. The method revealed the presence of the virus in air samples with high accuracy, potentially leading to earlier detection and reduced transmission.
Researchers have developed innovative ways to avoid clouds of coronavirus in public waiting lines, classrooms, and live musical performances. Periodic movements in lines can cause aerosol transmission, while heating in winter and air conditioning in summer create 'dead zones' that spread airborne diseases.
A study of 77 lactating parents found a higher prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in breast milk among unvaccinated mothers, suggesting potential protection against COVID-19. The study also identified a link between vaccine-induced immunity and increased neutralizing activity in human milk.
A study of nearly 2000 healthcare workers found that being vaccinated against COVID-19 decreased asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection detection compared to unvaccinated staff. Vaccination status was associated with reduced risk of infection.
A new study projects that more than eight million tons of pandemic-associated plastic waste have been generated globally, with over 25,000 tons entering the global ocean. The research highlights the need for improved medical waste management in developing countries and calls for global action to reduce plastic pollution.
A French study of nearly 27,000 individuals found that persistent physical symptoms like fatigue and breathlessness after COVID-19 may be more closely tied to beliefs about having been infected than actual lab confirmation. The research suggests a possible psychological component to lingering symptoms.
Researchers developed a human Intestine Chip to study coronavirus infection and test potential treatments. The chip showed that nafamostat reduced virus presence while remdesivir damaged intestinal tissue, offering insights into underlying causes of GI symptoms and improving understanding of treatment efficacy and toxicity.
Researchers found that levels of chitinase 3-like-1 increase with age and co-morbid diseases, augmenting SARS-CoV-2 infection. A therapeutic antibody blocks the induction of the ACE2 receptor, potentially paving the way for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.
Researchers found that older individuals produce higher levels of protective antibodies after infection or vaccination, providing better defense against emerging variants. Antibodies from infected individuals 50+ years old reacted strongly to the Delta variant, outperforming those from vaccinated adults under 50.
Regular testing of asymptomatic healthcare workers identified as cost-efficient strategy to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission. The study suggests that desynchronization of teams had limited effectiveness due to economic constraints.
A study at the University of São Paulo found that Torquetenovirus (TTV) titer is higher in people infected by SARS-CoV-2, suggesting it could be a biomarker for COVID-19 severity. TTV load correlates with disease progression and outcome, and its measurement may support diagnosis.
A process in cells may limit SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, but mutations in alpha and delta variants overcome this effect. GALNT1 enzyme activity reduces furin cleavage, while mutated spike proteins increase it.
A national survey found that half of US vaccine hesitant individuals believe nothing will convince them to get vaccinated. Most cited concerns about vaccine safety as the reason for their unwillingness.
Researchers at UC San Diego have created a CRISPR-based rapid diagnostic technology that detects SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus causing COVID-19. The new SENSR system is designed to simplify SARS-CoV-2 detection with a goal of eventual adaptation for in-home use.
Researchers found a clear link between people's expectations and actual vaccine side effects, suggesting that psychological factors can predict which individuals will experience more symptoms. The study aims to help overcome lingering vaccine hesitancy by reframing the way we think about side effects.
Researchers will identify and track SARS-CoV-2 variants using genomic sequence analyses. The project aims to understand the emergence and spread of the virus in West Virginia, helping public health officials prepare for future outbreaks.
A new poll reveals that most people over 50 have received or plan to receive flu shots, with a majority also planning to get additional COVID-19 vaccine doses. The poll highlights differences in vaccine attitudes among older adults of different age groups and backgrounds.
Scientists have engineered enzymes to manufacture molnupiravir, resulting in a shorter and higher-yielding synthesis. The new method reduces the risk of hospitalization and death from COVID-19 for newly diagnosed patients, showing promise as an antiviral treatment.
A study of 21 mothers found that those infected with SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy had a varied immune response in their newborns, resulting in some infants developing antibodies and others not.
A team of experts from Tel Aviv University has identified 5 coronavirus proteins responsible for damaging blood vessels. The researchers hope that the identification will lead to the development of targeted drugs that reduce vascular damage in COVID-19 patients.
Research reveals SARS-CoV-2 can enter the brain and affect neural function, leading to symptoms like headache, depression, and fatigue. Many people experience lingering cognitive or neurological problems months after initial recovery.
A study of 8,889 vaccinated patients and 88,898 unvaccinated patients found the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine to be effective in reducing SARS-CoV-2 infection. The results support mass vaccination efforts globally amid variant spread.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that antibody levels against SARS-CoV-2 stay higher in people who were infected by the virus and then received protection from mRNA vaccine compared to those who only got vaccinated. A longer interval between virus exposure and first vaccine dose may enhance antibody response.
A team of scientists has identified a compound that shows promise in easing COVID-19 symptoms by targeting the cellular quality-control system damaged by coronaviruses. The compound, AMG PERK 44, was found to halt virus replication and boost lung function in mice infected with MERS.
A new review suggests zinc can reduce the duration of acute viral respiratory tract infections like the common cold and flu. Zinc use has also been linked to reducing symptom severity, particularly during peak illness days.
Researchers developed a new online portal, DINC-COVID, to speed up the identification of potential pandemic treatments. The platform incorporates models of three drug targets and uses ensemble docking to score ligands' success in binding.
Researchers developed a viral panel that enables simultaneous testing for SARS-CoV-2 and common respiratory viruses, providing insight into coinfections and viral spread. The tool helps predict and mitigate future outbreaks by tracking novel viral variants and their patterns of spread.
A new study found that monoclonal antibodies protected aged, diabetic rhesus macaque monkeys from SARS-CoV-2 disease by reducing signs of inflammation. The treatment prevented viral RNA in the cerebrospinal fluid and infiltration of activated immune cells, suggesting a potential preventative measure for elderly residents during outbreaks.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that children and adults have similar risks of becoming infected with SARS-CoV-2. However, a larger proportion of infected children do not show symptoms of COVID-19, highlighting the need for continued public health safety measures.
A clinical trial of 465 patients found that administering heparin in therapeutic doses reduced mortality from COVID-19 by 78%, with benefits only observed when administered between seven and 14 days after symptom onset. The study suggests that timing is crucial for treatment efficacy.
A study of 64 college football games found no instances of in-game SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Researchers analyzed contact exposures among opposing team players, concluding that social distancing measures may have played a role in preventing transmission.
A massive Israeli study found that a third COVID-19 vaccine dose reduces hospitalization and severe disease risks by up to 93% compared to two doses. The research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of booster shots in real-world settings.
A study by Texas A&M University researchers analyzed contact tracing data and found that most player interactions were fleeting and brief. Only a small number of games had prolonged close contacts, with none resulting in COVID-19 cases among athletes.
Researchers develop cellular models to study SARS-CoV-2 infection of the inner ear, finding that the virus can infect hair cells and Schwann cells. The pattern of infection matches symptoms observed in a study of 10 Covid-19 patients with ear-related issues.
A review and meta-analysis of 32 studies involving 4,900 participants found that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination response was lower in patients with end-stage kidney disease receiving dialysis. Diabetes may be a risk factor for nonresponse to vaccination.
Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for COVID-19 by targeting the pentose phosphate pathway, which is necessary for SARS-CoV-2 replication. The study found that inhibiting this pathway with benfooxythiamine suppresses viral replication and reduces virus production.
A national study in Sweden suggests that the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes from SARS-CoV-2 is likely lower than previously feared. The study found that infants born to test-positive mothers had a higher risk of neonatal care and preterm birth, but no significant difference in stillbirths or low Apgar scores.
A UBC-led research team discovered that SARS-CoV-2 attaches to and deactivates galectin-8, a sensor protein that protects cells against infection. By disabling this defense system, the virus can hijack host cells to produce more viruses.
Researchers identified two nanobodies that specifically target and stabilize the tetrameric form of SARS-CoV-2 non-structural protein Nsp9, potentially repressing viral replication. These findings suggest a new antiviral strategy for diagnosis and treatment against COVID-19.
Researchers from the University of Queensland found that COVID-19 causes cardiovascular complications due to inflammation in infected airway cells. The study clarifies a key debate about the relationship between the virus and blood vessel linings, suggesting inflammation as the primary cause of damage.
A recent Johns Hopkins Medicine-led study suggests that statin use is not beneficial for reducing COVID-19 mortality or severity. Instead, patients taking statins had an increased risk of developing a more severe form of the disease. The researchers found no significant impact on mortality rates.
Researchers developed a novel sensor that can detect SARS-CoV-2 proteins without antibodies, giving results within minutes. The technology enables rapid diagnostics for Covid-19 and future pandemics, reducing economic loss.
Researchers have discovered a more effective treatment for children with Kawasaki disease and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare COVID-19 reaction. The new therapy, infliximab, reduces fever duration, hospitalizations, and anemia compared to standard IVIG treatment.
A Brazilian study demonstrates that a hyperimmune serum consisting of purified antibody fragments produced in horses can be an efficient approach to combat covid-19. The neutralizing activity of the sera has been proved to be high against the P.1 (Gamma) and P.2 variants, improving animal clinical conditions in hamsters.
Researchers developed a device that uses light to manipulate and isolate individual viruses, enabling precise diagnosis, treatment, and study of viruses. The device has the potential to aid in vaccine development and research on SARS-CoV-2 virus, allowing for targeted analysis of specific virus mutants.
The Delta variant is the most infectious known to date due to its ability to fuse with cells quickly and efficiently. Researchers found that Delta's spike protein has a unique property that accounts for its transmissibility, making it a favorable target for next-generation vaccines and treatments.
Scientists at the University of Colorado School of Medicine have identified specific genetic biomarkers in blood samples that can indicate the severity of COVID-19. The study's findings suggest that these signals can be used to monitor SARS-CoV-2 status and predict clinical outcomes.
A study of young Swedish adults found that over one in four had SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies, but fewer had measurable levels of memory B and T cells compared to other age groups. The researchers will continue to study long COVID and vaccination effects on immunity.
Researchers discovered that SARS-CoV-2 causes an early release of the immune-dampening TGFβ messenger, disrupting the innate immune response. This disruption impairs natural killer cells' ability to eliminate virus-infected cells, leading to severe disease.
Researchers discovered that a lower dose of the first shot, followed by a full-dose booster, significantly improved SARS-CoV-2 vaccine potency in mice. This approach, which involves an extended prime-boost interval, may lead to more robust and durable immune responses.