Research on the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself. Covers antiviral trials, antibody neutralization, viral escape, and rapid detection methods.
Researchers found biliverdin and bilirubin, natural molecules present in the body, can suppress antibody binding to SARS-CoV-2. This discovery may help explain why some COVID-19 patients become severely ill despite having high levels of antibodies against the virus.
A modeling study suggests that rapid air exchanges can cause a spike in viral concentrations within 30 minutes and remain elevated for up to 90 minutes. Increasing outdoor air and strong filtration reduce transmission risk, but the effect of increased ventilation rate is less obvious.
Despite having clinically recovered from COVID-19, NBA players, staff, and vendors experienced persistent viral loads, indicating a high transmission risk. The study found that these individuals were more likely to transmit the virus to others, highlighting the need for continued precautions.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 may provide protection against the latest variant strains and even the common cold. The vaccine-induced T cell response was found to be effective in recognizing the spike proteins of both SARS-CoV-2 and three common cold coronaviruses.
Researchers have identified a hidden region on the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein that is masked by metabolites, making it inaccessible to antibodies. This finding highlights the importance of targeting this region in developing new vaccines.
Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 infection induces polyfunctional antibodies capable of neutralizing the virus and activating immune cells to destroy infected cells. Asymptomatic individuals also have these antibodies, but with slightly weaker responses.
Researchers have developed an all-in-one test that integrates COVID-19 diagnosis, variant tracking, and co-infection detection into a single portable mini-laboratory. The NIRVANA test can detect SARS-CoV-2 mutations and report them simultaneously, making it a promising solution for rapid field-deployable detection.
Researchers simulated the COVID-19 epidemic's trajectory and found that even modest increases in evictions could lead to thousands of excess cases in Philadelphia, highlighting the need for renter protection policies to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2.
Scientists have developed a new COVID-19 vaccine that targets the spike protein of the virus, offering broad protection against existing and future strains. The vaccine's innovative approach uses a platform that can produce vaccines at very low cost, making it ideal for global vaccination efforts.
A new study suggests that pandemic eviction bans reduced infection rates and protected not only evicted individuals but also entire communities from the spread of COVID-19. The researchers found that without eviction bans, people who experience eviction or live with evictees have a higher risk of being infected, increasing transmission...
A liver transplant recipient was reinfected with SARS-CoV-2 111 days after initial diagnosis, using genomic sequencing to distinguish relapse from reinfection. Additionally, a study found people of color have substantially higher risks for hospitalization and intensive-level care for COVID-19 compared to White persons
A large population study found that taking probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, multivits or vitamin D was associated with a lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, with protective effects seen only among women. The study used data from the COVID-19 Symptom Study app and analyzed over 372,000 UK subscribers.
Researchers have found that SARS-CoV-2 variants from minks can evade inhibition by COVID-19 antibodies, reducing immune control. The study showed that the Y453F mutation in the spike protein reduces the effectiveness of both therapeutic and human-made antibodies.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys have identified a set of human genes that help control SARS-CoV-2 infection, including interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) that inhibit viral replication. The study provides new insights into the biology of the virus and suggests possible therapeutic options.
A new study from the NIH found that MK-4482 treatment significantly decreased virus levels and lung damage in hamsters infected with SARS-CoV-2. The treatment was effective when administered before or after infection, suggesting potential for mitigation of high-risk exposures.
A recent study published in Physics of Fluids reveals that the triangular shape of coronavirus spikes plays a crucial role in its ability to spread. The research, conducted by scientists at OIST and Queen's University, found that the spikes' lower rotational diffusivity enables the virus to better attach itself to objects and people.
A longitudinal study of over 3,000 young Marines found that past COVID-19 infection does not completely protect against reinfection. Young people with previous infection can still catch the virus and transmit it to others.
Research identifies SARS-CoV-2 variants emerging from immunocompromised hosts, leading to increased frequency of mutations. The study highlights the importance of monitoring genetic changes in SARS-CoV-2 to design effective vaccines and diagnostics.
A recent study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that past COVID-19 infection does not provide full immunity against reinfection, particularly among young people. Vaccination remains crucial to prevent reinfection and transmission, even among those who have had a previous infection.
Research from the Rhineland Study in Bonn, Germany, suggests that neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 decline significantly within 4-5 months after infection. The study found that only about one-third of individuals testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies actually had specific antibodies against the virus.
The novel P.1 SARS-CoV-2 lineage emerged in November 2020, exhibiting 17 mutations, including those in the spike protein, making it more transmissible and lethal than its predecessor. Enhanced global genomic surveillance is critical to address increased transmission and immune evasion
A new study found that all six currently identified SARS-CoV-2 variants are widely spread across the Houston metropolitan area. Genome sequencing data showed geographically widespread dissemination of variants, with successful patient-to-patient transmission among communities.
Scientists identify 234 fragment compounds directly binding to SARS-CoV-2's Nsp3 Mac1 protein, mapping chemical motifs for potential antiviral drug development. The study lays out the next steps in designing and synthesizing more elaborate molecules with promising biological effects.
A recent NIH workshop highlighted the need for further research on post-acute COVID-19, a condition characterized by heterogeneous symptoms and long-term effects. The workshop presented important knowledge gaps in understanding the underlying pathophysiology of PASC.
Researchers created human induced pluripotent stem cells-derived intestinal organoids to study SARS-CoV-2's effects on the gut. This new model enables testing of potential therapeutics and identifying common disease mechanisms that can be targeted by drugs.
A new study finds that pre-pandemic children have higher frequencies of convergent B cell clones for SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, while adult blood shows few such clones. The research suggests that early childhood B cell clonal expansions may stimulate cross-reactive memory, leading to better responses to novel pathogens.
A team from Osaka University and Hokkaido University has developed a quick PCR-based reverse genetics system for analyzing SARS-CoV-2 mutations. This system allows for the examination of biological features of mutations in a matter of two weeks, significantly faster than previous methods that took several months.
A team from TUM and Max Planck Institute analyzed over 1200 samples of human lung cells reacting to SARS-CoV-2 proteins, identifying 1484 interaction points between viral and cellular proteins. This knowledge will help identify vulnerability hotspots for new therapies.
Researchers analyzed genome sequences from seven asymptomatic LTCF patients, revealing specific SARS-CoV-2 variants. The study suggests that these variants may be associated with a reduced risk of severe illness in asymptomatic individuals.
A recent study has linked Interleukin-33 to immunity against Sars-CoV-2. The researchers found that memory T cells and high levels of antibodies persisted in recovered patients, suggesting a strong immune response. This discovery could pave the way for better understanding of Sars-CoV-2 immunity and potential therapies.
A new University of Manitoba-led research study found that children are less infectious with SARS-CoV-2 than adults, indicating safer in-person learning and daycare environments. The study analyzed samples from 175 children and 130 adults, revealing lower viral loads in the pediatric group.
A German study found that preschool and school children were more infected with SARS-CoV-2 than previously reported cases during the second wave. Antibody tests revealed a significant increase in infections among both age groups, with antibody frequencies up to eight times higher than those reported via PCR testing.
The study analyzed in-hospital mortality rates among US patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection over time, highlighting the impact of aging and pre-existing health conditions on patient outcomes. The analysis revealed a significant increase in mortality rates among older adults and those with comorbidities.
New research reveals how the immune system influences SARS-CoV-2 evolution, with potential implications for COVID-19 treatment and vaccines. Studies show that immune responses can lead to the emergence of new virus strains, highlighting the need for periodic updates to remain effective.
Researchers analyzed anonymized smartphone data to predict COVID-19 outbreaks, finding a 10% increase in mobility outside the home correlated with a 25% increase in weekly SARS-CoV-2 growth rates. The study provides insights into estimating restrictions needed to control the pandemic.
Researchers compared images of COVID-19 vaccine-induced protein spikes to those of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and found a high degree of similarity, suggesting the vaccine's ability to trigger an immune response.
Researchers identified a newly associated mucocutaneous eruption in a pediatric patient with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study presents the first case of this dermatologic presentation linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
A recent Johns Hopkins Medicine study compared inpatient and outpatient surgical volumes during the pandemic and found significant declines, especially in regions hardest hit. Outpatient volumes recovered quickly, while inpatient volumes improved to near-pre-pandemic levels by September 2020.
A case series examines the association between maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection and outcomes in newborns' eyes, finding potential ocular complications. The study suggests that gestational exposure to maternal COVID-19 may lead to increased risk of eye problems in newborns.
A large health system study found a significant association between SARS-CoV-2 testing and an increased incidence of outpatient and hospital-associated blood clots in adults. The 30-day risk was higher for women and individuals with certain underlying medical conditions.
A novel nanoparticle vaccine, called spike ferritin nanoparticle (SpFN), is being tested in a Phase 1 clinical trial at WRAIR. The vaccine has shown promise in inducing potent and broad neutralizing antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2 variants.
A new interactive tool, SpillOver, prioritizes wildlife-origin viruses based on their risk of spreading to humans. The tool identifies 12 known human pathogens and several newly discovered viruses as being at high risk of spillover.
A new model of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein reveals potential new vaccine targets, including spots with minimal glycan shielding. The researchers identified novel sites and confirmed their vulnerability through lab experiments.
A new study by the USGS found that the risk of COVID-19 transmission to North American bats is low, with a risk of 1 in 1,000 if no protective measures are taken. The risk falls lower with proper use of personal protective equipment or if scientists test negative for COVID-19 before beginning research.
A new study from the University of California, Davis, found that COVID-19 cases are driven by emerging coronavirus variants. The researchers developed a metric called GENI to measure virus variation and its link to transmission rates, showing effective control of spread with measures like lockdowns and mask mandates.
A highly contagious SARS-CoV-2 variant was unknowingly spreading in the US by October 2020, with evidence suggesting it had arrived in at least 15 countries by mid-November. Researchers estimate that travelers from the UK introduced the variant to these countries between Sept. 22 and Dec. 7, 2020.
The NIRVANA test can diagnose COVID-19 in minutes, track SARS-CoV-2 variants, and detect other viruses like influenza. It uses isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) coupled with real-time nanopore sequencing.
The NIH has started a Phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of Moderna's COVID-19 variant vaccine, mRNA-1273.351, designed to protect against the B.1.351 SARS-CoV-2 variant. The trial enrolls approximately 210 healthy adult volunteers and aims to assess the reactogenicity and immune response of the vaccine.
A study found that US nursing home residents with underlying health conditions, older age, and those living in facilities with poor ventilation were at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infections. The study also showed that hospitalization and mortality rates were higher among these groups.
The B.1.1.7 variant of COVID-19 is spreading rapidly in the US, with a 40-50% increase in transmissibility compared to previous dominant variants. The analysis suggests that future case numbers and mortality rates will be higher than expected.
Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 prefers to replicate at temperatures typical of the upper airways, whereas replication of SARS-CoV was not impacted by temperature. This understanding provides new insights into virus-host interactions and potential targets for intervention strategies.
A study of 11 autopsy cases reveals high viral loads in lungs causing significant damage, but also detects SARS-CoV-2 RNA in other tissues without visible damage. This suggests the immune system may be unable to respond adequately to the virus' presence in the blood.
The 'Compact Cell-Imaging Device' project aims to advance research into viral diseases by developing a miniaturized soft X-ray approach. This method allows for three-dimensional imaging of intact cells and can reveal changes induced by viral infections, making it an attractive tool for studying SARS-CoV-2.
Researchers found that CD8+ T cells in recovered COVID-19 patients can recognize virtually all mutations in recent SARS-CoV-2 variants, offering protection against emerging strains. This suggests that vaccination may still be effective against new variants, and booster vaccinations may be needed to maintain immunity.
A team of researchers re-examines the effectiveness of sunlight in deactivating the SARS-CoV-2 virus, finding that results contradict previous theories and suggest an alternative mechanism involving UV-A light. This discovery could lead to new management strategies using widely available UV-A radiation.
Researchers discovered that the widely available Topotecan (TPT) inhibits inflammatory genes in the lungs of mice as late as four days after infection, improving infection outcomes. The drug, an FDA-approved Topoisomerase I inhibitor, could be a valuable global strategy for treating severe COVID-19 cases.
The UK variant B.1.1.7 is neutralized by 95% of serum samples from infected individuals, while the South African variant B.1.351 requires six times higher antibody concentrations to be neutralized effectively. Vaccinated individuals also show reduced efficacy against the South African variant.
A study published in the Journal of Dental Research found SARS-CoV-2 positivity among asymptomatic-screened dental patients, with a 0.5% test positivity rate over 13 weeks. The COVID-19 positivity rate in this patient group mirrored the underlying community prevalence at the time.
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have developed a VaNGuard test that can detect the virus causing COVID-19, even with mutations. The test uses gene-editing tool CRISPR and yields results in 30 minutes, making it faster and more affordable than traditional tests.
Researchers at Lehigh University have identified a previously unknown interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and ACE2 receptors in human cells, which strengthens the virus-cell interaction. This finding may partially explain COVID-19's higher infection rate compared to SARS.