Research on the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself. Covers antiviral trials, antibody neutralization, viral escape, and rapid detection methods.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A study published in Nature Communications found that COVID-19 antibody levels remain high for at least nine months after infection, regardless of symptoms. The research tested over 85% of an Italian town's residents and found no significant difference between symptomatic and asymptomatic cases.
Researchers at the University of Bern created an in vitro cell culture model biobank from 12 different animal species to assess their susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found that rhesus macaques and cats may be particularly vulnerable, highlighting the need for close surveillance and early detection programs.
The L452R mutation of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein evades human immune response via HLA-A24, a common allele in East/Southeast Asian populations. This mutation also enhances viral infectivity and replication efficiency.
A novel coronavirus related to Covid-19 has been found in UK horseshoe bats, with the team suggesting that these bats have likely harbored the virus for thousands of years. The discovery highlights the need for robust genotype testing in bat populations and raises concerns about the potential for viral mutation.
Researchers created a stem cell model demonstrating SARS-CoV-2's entry into the human brain through blood vessels and infected pericytes. Astrocytes were the main target of this secondary infection, leading to complications like inflammation, clotting, stroke, or hemorrhages.
A lack of genomic sequencing impedes the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The US ranks 33rd in variant surveillance, highlighting the need for improved international sequencing efforts to track and respond to new SARS-CoV-2 variants. Enhanced sequencing is crucial for understanding disease transmission and severity.
A new study published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology found a significant association between wildfire smoke exposure and an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 in Reno, Nev. During a prolonged 2020 wildfire smoke event, PM2.5 levels were associated with a 17.7% rise in COVID-19 cases.
A new COVID-19 vaccine candidate has shown effectiveness in inducing both neutralizing antibodies and CD8+ T cells, potentially reducing disease transmission. The vaccine combines yeast-expression technology and a novel adjuvant formulation, making it suitable for large-scale production and cost-effective distribution.
This study analyzed circumstances of SARS-CoV-2 infection in France, identifying key risk factors and behaviors associated with higher infection rates. The study found that working professionals, car-sharing, recent travel abroad, and visits to bars, restaurants, and gyms increased the risk of infection.
A rapid method to quantify antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 has been developed by scientists at Hokkaido University. The test is highly accurate, quick, and easy to perform, requiring only 20 minutes to complete.
A new protein-based vaccine candidate combined with a potent adjuvant has shown effective protection against SARS-CoV-2 in animal studies. The combination improved antibody and T cell responses, reducing viral load and inflammation.
Researchers at the University of Fukui found that short chain fatty acids can suppress ACE2 expression in nasal epithelial cells, reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission. The study suggests potential therapeutic applications against COVID-19 and could aid in the fight against the virus.
Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln discovered that SARS-CoV-2 mutations occur in predictable locations, similar to its closest relatives. This finding helps inform predictions of how the virus will continue to evolve and could aid in developing effective vaccines.
A recent study in Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for healthcare workers is strongly justified due to the higher mortality rate of SARS-CoV-2 compared to influenza. The authors propose strategies to increase employee acceptance and overcome vaccine hesitancy, emphasizing the importance of protec...
A study reveals that highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 can emerge in people living with advanced HIV if they cannot clear the virus through effective antiretroviral therapy. This increases the risk of severe disease and potentially more potent variants.
A study in Switzerland found that people living in poorer neighborhoods were less likely to be tested for COVID-19, but more likely to test positive, be hospitalized, or die compared to those in wealthier areas. The study also found stronger associations between neighborhood socioeconomic position and outcomes in younger age groups.
A new study reveals CoronaVac vaccine antibodies are less effective against the P.1 Brazil variant, raising concerns about vaccination program effectiveness and potential reinfection of previously infected individuals.
A recent study published in JAMA Oncology found that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine appears to be safe and effective in patients with cancer, achieving satisfactory serologic status. Despite a lag in antibody production compared to non-cancer control groups, most patients experienced seroconversion after the second dose.
A new study published in Emerging Infectious Diseases found that mathematical models informed early statewide policies in Colorado, avoiding 97% of potential hospitalizations. The modeling team developed a SEIR model calibrated to Colorado COVID-19 data and provided real-time estimates to policymakers.
A study has identified a microRNA-like small RNA encoded by SARS-CoV-2 as a reliable biomarker for stratifying severe COVID-19 patients from mild/moderate ones. This biomarker enables early detection of high-risk individuals, allowing for optimized treatment and improved treatment outcomes.
This study found SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence to be high in Lombardy region healthcare workers, with certain categories and facilities at higher risk of infection. The study also identified operational units, such as in-hospital wards and outpatient facilities, as key risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Researchers at Penn State designed a synthetic defective SARS-CoV-2 virus that interferes with the real virus's growth, potentially causing its extinction. The therapeutic may be used as a self-promoting antiviral treatment for COVID-19.
The study found that APOBEC4 is highly expressed in cells and tissues attacked by SARS-CoV-2, such as epithelial cells in the lungs and gastrointestinal tract. This knowledge could lead to characterizing antiviral cell status attributed to AID/APOBECs specific to patients and correlating it with organ damage and COVID-19 severity.
A new international study found that laboratory-developed protein spikes consistent with COVID-19 virus are highly similar, providing reassurance for vaccine design and antibody testing. The study used glycan coatings to mimic the infectious virus and showed consistent results across five laboratories worldwide.
Scientists have identified stable T cell vaccine targets in SARS-CoV-2, offering long-lasting protection against multiple variants. The approach, developed for HIV, uses structure-based network analysis to identify mutationally constrained epitopes that can be recognized by immune cells.
Researchers found that animal models infected with SARS-CoV-2 treated with a deuterated protease inhibitor had significantly increased survival and decreased lung viral load. The results suggest that postinfection treatment with inhibitors of proteases essential for viral replication may be an effective treatment against SARS-CoV-2.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology found that people who recovered from COVID-19 or received Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines have cross-reactive T cells that can target several SARS-CoV-2 variants. This reactivity is key to the body's immune response, allowing it to kill infected cells and stop severe infections.
Scientists at the Francis Crick Institute and University of Dundee have identified 15 molecules that inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication by blocking different enzymes. Three of the molecules are existing drugs with known safety data, which could be developed into new COVID-19 treatments quickly.
Researchers identified that multiciliated cells in the nasal epithelium are the first cells targeted by SARS-CoV-2 in early COVID-19 infection. These cells serve as the main factories for mass-producing viruses, highlighting the potential for targeting these cells using specific treatments to curb infections.
The team's real-world results demonstrate the potential of SwabSeq to be used for population-wide testing on an unprecedented scale. The test has shown extremely high sensitivity and specificity, making it a promising solution for scaling up COVID-19 testing.
Researchers found that people with milder COVID-19 symptoms tend to have more killer T cells that recognize peptides shared with other coronaviruses, indicating a previous encounter. This may help explain why some individuals are more resilient to infection and potentially predict severe symptoms.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne found that liquid chalk is effective against both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A viruses. The study tested four different types of chalk, with three working incredibly effectively, and showed complete resistance to norovirus in some cases.
A team of researchers developed a high-throughput biochemical assay to assess small molecule impact on SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural protein 14, identifying potential inhibitors from FDA-approved drugs. The study aims to deliver therapeutics for the SARS-CoV-2 virus, targeting its critical methyltransferase activity.
Researchers found that vaccinated individuals have a lower viral load, shorter infection time and milder symptoms than unvaccinated people. The study also showed a significant reduction in the risk of having COVID-19 with an accompanying fever.