Articles tagged with Sars Cov 2
A study found that mRNA vaccine recipients with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection experienced more severe symptoms after vaccination. The study suggests vaccine type may influence symptom severity in individuals with a history of COVID-19 infection.
A study of 6,280 households found that younger children are more likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to caregivers and siblings. The study suggests that household transmission is a significant concern for pediatric patients.
A large-scale population-based study confirms that COVID-19 vaccines far outweigh the risk of Bell's palsy. The study found a small increased risk of Bell's palsy associated with CoronaVac vaccination, but not with BNT162b2.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have made significant breakthroughs in developing a highly effective COVID-19 antibody therapy and an efficient thermoelectric system that can convert waste heat to electricity. The new antibody, S309, has been shown to neutralize all known SARS-CoV-2 strains and may be more difficult for new mutants to escape.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute elucidated the molecular mechanism of Molnupiravir, an antiviral agent that reduces Sars-CoV-2 coronavirus transmission. By incorporating RNA-like building blocks into the virus genome, Molnupiravir prevents further replication and transmission.
Researchers found that college students with low viral loads can still transmit the virus, and Ct values are not a reliable predictor of transmissibility. The study suggests that symptomatic individuals tend to have higher viral loads or maintain their viral loads for longer periods.
Researchers assessed effectiveness of T-cell immune response to 11 SARS-CoV-2 variants, identifying HLA gene variants with significantly changed virus peptides. The T-cell COVID-19 Atlas portal (T-CoV) provides a comprehensive resource for understanding the impact of viral mutations on immunity.
Scientists have repurposed CRISPR to identify antibodies in patient blood samples, demonstrating a new class of medical diagnostics. The technique uses customizable proteins attached to Cas9, which assemble on a microchip to bind to specific DNA sequences, allowing for fast and accurate detection.
Researchers discover a new way for an antiviral enzyme to detect and destroy viruses that hide inside cell membranes. The OAS1 p46 isoform enhances the immune response against SARS-CoV-2, flaviviruses, and other RNA viruses.
Research finds that immunocompromised dialysis patients who received the Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine have higher levels of neutralising antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Delta. A third dose of an mRNA vaccine is recommended to protect this vulnerable group.
Two studies report substantial reductions in COVID-19 infections and deaths among vaccinated organ transplant patients, with a lower risk of breakthrough infections compared to the general population. Vaccination is considered critically important for this high-risk group.
A new study reveals that four miRNAs can effectively inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication, with lower levels in elderly and diabetic individuals. Exercise boosts the level of these miRNAs, providing better protection against COVID-19.
Researchers identified genes and cell types involved in rare inflammatory disease MIS-C in children following COVID-19 infection. The study found that specific immune cells are downregulated and associated with a sustained inflammatory response.
Researchers used a hamster model to study COVID-19 lung damage, discovering that the immune system's response plays a crucial role in disease progression. They found that certain cells involved in lung immunity ingest the virus, triggering an inflammatory response that can be brought under control by T cells.
Researchers developed a protein-based COVID-19 vaccine that mimics the SARS-CoV-2 virus shape, eliciting both antibody and T cell responses. The vaccine, using polymersomes decorated with multiple copies of the receptor binding domain antigen, shows promise for longer-lasting immunity.
Research found that COVID-19 patients with more severe symptoms scored lower on reasoning and problem-solving tasks. Cognitive deficits were greatest in those receiving mechanical ventilation, similar to average decline seen over a decade of ageing.
A new system developed at Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory determines the 3D structures of RNA-only molecules with high resolution, applying it to a ribozyme from pond scum and a piece of viral RNA from SARS-CoV-2. The study reveals tiny pockets in the viral RNA that could be targeted for COVID-19 treatments.
This observational study evaluates the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in breast milk of lactating women who received mRNA vaccines. The findings suggest a correlation between serum antibody levels and breast milk antibody concentrations.
A new study found that fine aerosols generated during talking and singing can contain more viral particles than coarse aerosols, highlighting the importance of reducing exposure to these particles in indoor environments. The research suggests that these aerosols may play a significant role in SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
Researchers investigated SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine response in cancer patients and healthy controls. The study found that the vaccine's antispike IgG antibody response wanes over time in patients on active anticancer treatment.
Wastewater screening at UC San Diego detects 85% of COVID-19 cases early, enabling timely testing, contact tracing, and isolation. The approach has reduced campus positivity rates to less than 1% during the pandemic.
A new MIT study highlights the importance of careful classroom ventilation in reducing the spread of Covid-19 aerosols. Researchers found that certain configurations, such as closed windows and limited upward air movement, can lead to higher concentrations of potentially problematic aerosols.
A new platform can quickly identify common mutations on the SARS-CoV-2 virus, allowing for the development of stronger COVID-19 boosters and universal vaccines. The tool uses genetically modified baker's yeast to map resulting mutations that form and escape neutralizing antibodies.
Researchers found shared clones of antibody-producing white blood cells among COVID-19 survivors and vaccinated individuals, targeting the viral surface 'spike' protein. This discovery could help design more effective vaccines and therapies against emerging variants.
Researchers found that a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine, especially in those with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, dramatically increased virus variant neutralising antibody responses. This additional boost increases potential protection against existing and future variants of concern.
Researchers identified two lectins, Clec4g and CD209c, that strongly bind to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, blocking viral entry into cells. These findings hold promise for developing robust therapeutic interventions against circulating variants.
SK bioscience's GBP510 vaccine candidate has shown promising safety and immunogenic response in Phase I/II clinical trials. IVI will partner with SK on global Phase III trials to accelerate development and WHO approval of the vaccine.
The NIH has launched a pilot study to assess the antibody response of kidney transplant recipients to a third dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. The trial aims to determine if a third dose can overcome the immune suppression caused by lifelong immunosuppressive therapy in this population.
A new genosensor, developed by a Brazilian research team, can detect the genetic sequence of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva or other body fluids with high sensitivity. The device can analyze samples in 30 minutes for a cost of less than $1 per genosensor.
A recent study found SARS-CoV-2 infection among maternal-infant pairs to be extremely rare in early infancy. The findings suggest that while transmission is uncommon, continued monitoring and vaccination efforts are necessary to protect newborns from COVID-19 and its variants.
Dr. Christopher Basler received two NIH grants totaling $816,534 to study Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronavirus and SARS-CoV-2. The research aims to understand how these viruses interact with the body's immune response and identify potential new strategies for treating infection.
A global study of over 96,000 patients found that those who isolated before surgery were at a higher risk of developing post-operative lung complications. Despite this, the study suggests that removing pre-operative isolation strategies may not lead to worse outcomes for patients.
A global study found that people use music as a coping mechanism for emotional and social stress, with music listening helping to regulate depression and fear. Music making also provides a sense of community and self-reflection, while 'coronamusic' reveals the power of collective creative responses during times of crisis.
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.
Researchers evaluated antibody levels after Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine in previously infected and uninfected individuals, finding a significant increase in SARS-CoV-2 spike immunoglobin G antibodies. The study suggests the vaccine effectively boosts immunity in those who have already been infected.
The Minimally Instrumented SHERLOCK (miSHERLOCK) test uses CRISPR-based technology to detect multiple COVID-19 variants in saliva samples, providing faster and more accurate diagnoses. The low-cost device, costing $6 per assay, can be assembled using a 3D printer and provides results within one hour.
A new tabletop diagnostic device can detect COVID-19 from saliva samples in about an hour, with accuracy comparable to PCR tests. The device uses CRISPR technology and can be programmed to detect specific variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Researchers at UC Berkeley created a rapid COVID-19 diagnostic test utilizing tandem CRISPR nucleases, which accelerates RNA detection and reduces sample handling. This innovation simplifies the assay process, making it faster and more efficient for SARS-CoV-2 virus detection.
A team of scientists at the University of Cambridge has developed a lab-grown model of heart cells that mimic the behavior of real heart cells and are vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The researchers showed that an experimental peptide drug, DX600, can prevent the virus from entering the heart cells and reduce levels of infection.
Researchers have discovered that reduced levels of sphingosine are significantly associated with developing COVID-19 symptoms, while elevated sphingosine and acid ceramidase levels are linked to asymptomatic infections. This biomarker has a high degree of accuracy in predicting patient outcomes.
New research found that using electric drills instead of air-driven drills reduces aerosol spray by 99.98%, creating a safer environment for patients and dental teams. This could lead to a significant increase in treatments carried out, addressing the growing backlog of patients waiting for dental care.
A new model incorporates human behavior and fears to predict multiple waves of COVID-19 infections. The 'Triple Contagion' model shows how fear can drive disease resurgence, as people may abandon protective measures prematurely or avoid vaccines due to misinformation.
The study reveals that lysine residues in the RNA polymerase act as a 'bucket brigade', transporting drugs and nucleotides to the binding site through electrostatic interactions. Favipiravir is found to be taken up more efficiently than ATP, while remdesivir outperforms favipiravir.
Researchers found that viruses on coins and banknotes are unlikely to be transmitted through contact. The shelf life of Sars-Cov-2 on these surfaces is short, with the risk of transmission being very low under realistic conditions.
Researchers discover presumed SARS-CoV-2 viral particles in the human retina of COVID-19 patients. The finding suggests a possible link between the virus and ocular clinical manifestations, highlighting the need for further investigation into the virus's effects on the eyes.
Researchers at UIC are developing a potential COVID-19 treatment using VT-109, which has shown promise in animal models by restoring lung function and reducing inflammation. The new funding will be used to conduct pre-clinical studies to determine efficacy, toxicity, and dosages before human trials.
This study analyzed the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection among hospital healthcare workers and found that those with certain underlying conditions were more susceptible. The study also identified specific patient populations at increased risk, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to prevent transmission.
Researchers discovered that the majority of the spike protein degrades within 24 hours, providing insights into infection and vaccination processes. The study also shed light on the role of key host factors in cell-to-cell fusion, a crucial aspect of COVID-19 pathology.
A significant minority of people in Kentucky's indoor public areas fail to wear masks correctly during the pandemic. The study found higher compliance rates in larger stores and affluent city districts. Men aged 40-60 are most likely to be unmasked or incorrectly masked.
Göttingen researchers have developed mini-antibodies that efficiently block the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and its new variants. The nanobodies bind and neutralize the virus with extreme stability, making them promising agents to treat COVID-19.
Researchers identified compounds that target VPS34 and fatty acid metabolism as potent inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 replication. These findings reveal critical pathways involved in the virus's life cycle, providing novel insights for developing therapeutics targeting these pathways.
A recent study by University of Wyoming economists suggests that public health messages focusing on the personal health benefits of COVID-19 vaccines are most effective in increasing vaccination intentions. The researchers found that such messages increased intended vaccinations by 16 percentage points, significantly more than other ty...
Researchers at the University of East Anglia warn that relaxing Covid-19 restrictions prematurely could pave the way for new vaccine-resistant virus mutations. The 'arms race' between humans and the virus continues, with rising cases providing opportunities for it to evolve into more transmissible variants.
Researchers have created an 'atlas' charting how antibodies attack the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, identifying broadly responsive neutralizers and regions resistant to attack. The study highlights the importance of studying antibody responses for developing effective COVID-19 booster vaccines.
The article highlights the advantages of intranasal vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, including needle-free administration and elicitation of mucosal immunity in the respiratory tract. Researchers argue that this approach may be more effective than traditional intramuscular vaccinations, offering a broader range of protection.
A study investigated longitudinal serological and vaccination responses to SARS-COV-2 in dental professionals. The results showed that natural infection with SARS-COV-2 leads to persistent, neutralizing and protective serological responses in over 70% of participants.
The authors argue that intranasal COVID-19 vaccines could provide additional layers of protection by eliciting immunoglobulin A and resident memory cells in the nasal passages. An ideal vaccination strategy may consist of an intramuscular vaccine combined with an intranasal booster, offering a dual approach to combat respiratory viruses.
The study found that two-dose mRNA vaccines provided 88% protection against the original SARS-CoV-2 virus, 86% against the Alpha variant, and 77% against the Beta variant. Previous SARS-CoV-2 infection also conferred similar protection to mRNA vaccination.
Researchers develop open-source molecular detection method to track B.1.1.7 (Alpha) variant in wastewater, providing actionable community-level information for health authorities. The breakthrough expands utility of wastewater surveillance beyond SARS-CoV-2 testing.
Scientists at Goethe University have identified 15 short segments of the SARS-CoV-2 genome that are highly conserved across various coronaviruses and perform essential regulatory functions. These segments were found to be resistant to mutations, making them promising targets for developing new drugs against SARS-CoV-2.