Research on the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself. Covers antiviral trials, antibody neutralization, viral escape, and rapid detection methods.
Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2's spike protein moves on a different time scale than SARS-CoV-1, giving it more stability and increasing its ability to infect cells. This discovery could lead to the development of therapeutics that alter the protein's dynamics and make it less transmissible.
Researchers have created molecular models to study the critical parts of SARS-CoV-2 that interact with human cell membranes. The simulations reveal how the virus inserts itself into cells and provide new insights into a potential drug target. This discovery could help develop new treatments for COVID-19.
Researchers used stem cell-derived organoids to study SARS-CoV-2 interaction with organs. Lung organoids responded more to the virus than brain organoids, producing different molecules and outcomes.
Researchers discover that SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV-1 share similarities due to a recombination event involving the ACE2 receptor. The study provides evolutionary context for these viruses' behavior, enabling researchers to identify high-risk viruses and estimate their potential for human spillover.
A new strain of the coronavirus in Southern California, CAL.20C, is rapidly spreading across the country and around the world, accounting for nearly half of current COVID-19 cases in the region. The strain has been detected in 19 US states and six foreign countries, suggesting travelers are carrying it to these destinations.
Researchers investigated SARS-CoV-2 antibody status and subsequent nucleic acid amplification test results to understand serostatus as a predictor of reinfection. The study found that seropositive individuals had a lower risk of future infection compared to those who were not seropositive.
Researchers applied game theory to analyze cellular processes, revealing insights into viral behavior and immune system deception. The study provides blueprints for understanding mimicry formation and destruction in cellular populations.
Researchers found that protective B cell responses remain stable over time, but do not recognize emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants from Brazil and South Africa. A large proportion of neutralizing antibodies generated by long-lasting B cells only target conserved epitopes.
A new study reveals that researchers produced more than 87,000 scientific papers about coronavirus between January and October 2020. The vast majority of these studies were conducted by scientists from China and the United States, which initially dominated coronavirus research due to government funding and institutional partnerships.
A research team from Texas A🌍 University and The University of Texas Medical Branch has identified a potential drug to treat SARS-CoV-2 using the FDA-approved heart medication bepridil. The study suggests that bepridil shows significant effectiveness in interfering with SARS-CoV-2 entry into human cells.
Scientists have identified potential new therapeutic targets beyond the RBD on the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, which may help explain how emerging variants become more infectious. The research could lead to new treatments targeting the S1/S2 cleavage site.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed protein fragments called peptides that effectively bind to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, blocking the virus's ability to access host cells. The team envisions delivering these peptides in nasal sprays or aerosol disinfectants to prevent viral entry.
Researchers discovered that MEK inhibitors reduce cellular expression of ACE2, pERK, and pRb while stimulating NK-mediated cytotoxicity and attenuating inflammatory cytokines. MEKi also suppressed infectivity of the pseudovirus in human cells.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a real-time sensor system that can detect the airborne COVID-19 virus, with funding from DARPA. The system uses molecular imprinting and organic electrochemical transistors to rapidly transduce SARS-CoV-2 binding events into electronic signals.
The CovMT system processes publicly available data to detect mutations and mutation fingerprints, enabling tracking of virus evolution across the globe. It also predicts disease severity based on mutational fingerprints and correlates with patient data from GISAID.
Researchers at WVU and Marshall University are analyzing COVID-19 samples to identify new variants, including the UK Variant B.1.1.7, which is believed to be more contagious than the original virus. The team aims to understand how these variants evolve and potentially develop therapeutics or vaccines.
The article reviews immunogenicity profiles of prominent SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in non-human primates and humans. Notably, Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines have been authorized for use by the FDA following successful human clinical trials.
Research found that warmer temperatures lead to decreased COVID-19 case rates, while cooler temperatures increase the rate of new cases. The study analyzed daily low temperatures and infection rates from Jan 22 to April 6, 2020, in 50 countries and showed a significant correlation between temperature and transmission.
Researchers designed and tested 32 inhibitors targeting the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, a key viral protein required for replication. The study found six compounds with high potency to protect cells from infection, offering promise for the development of orally available anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs.
Researchers found extremely low detection of SARS-CoV-2 on environmental surfaces in outpatient and inpatient oncology areas, including a COVID-19 floor. The study's results confirm the effectiveness of enhanced cleaning and disinfecting policies in reducing virus transmission.
Scientists develop nasal antiviral spray that prevents SARS-CoV-2 transmission in ferrets, suggesting its effectiveness in preventing infection in people exposed to the new coronavirus. The lipopeptide-based spray is inexpensive, stable, and does not require refrigeration, making it an ideal solution for halting COVID-19 spread globally.
A newly engineered peptide has been shown to prevent virus transmission among ferrets when given two days prior to co-housing with infected animals. The peptide's stability and effectiveness in reducing infection rates make it a promising candidate for developing an intranasal prophylaxis treatment against SARS-CoV-2 in humans.
A study by New York University researchers reveals the D614G mutation in SARS-CoV-2's spike protein renders the virus up to eight times more infectious. The mutation makes the virus more resistant to being cleaved and increases its ability to infect human cells, contributing to rapid spread.
Scientists identify the Nsp1 protein as a key player in blocking host cell genes that promote viral replication. By inhibiting two steps in protein production, Nsp1 allows SARS-CoV-2 to replicate unchecked. This discovery provides a potential target for new COVID-19 therapies.
Scientists have developed a highly sensitive antibody test that can detect all known human coronaviruses, including new SARS-CoV-2 variants. The test uses 29 immune signatures specific to SARS-CoV-2 and has been validated with a high specificity and sensitivity rate.
A study reveals how SARS-CoV-2 exploits an immune system defense mechanism to multiply in mucous membrane cells, leading to severe illness. Researchers found that a strong immune response can increase the virus's ability to enter cells, paving the way for infection.
The ViralLink workflow connects the dots between viral protein interactions and cellular responses to identify key proteins involved in various functions. The tool predicts signalling pathways and transcription factor regulation to change gene expression in infected cells.
The study used thermal proteome profiling to analyze SARS-CoV-2 infection's impact on human proteins. Hundreds of cellular proteins showed changes in abundance and thermal stability, suggesting the virus hijacks them for replication.
The rise of several significant SARS-CoV-2 variants has sparked concerns about vaccine efficacy and prompted calls for a global approach to combatting the virus. Experts from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases emphasize the need for robust surveillance, tracking, and vaccine deployment worldwide.
Researchers found that high-dose zinc and ascorbic acid supplementation did not significantly impact symptom length or reduction among ambulatory patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study suggests that treatment with these supplements may be ineffective against the virus.
The study found that serological tests detecting previous SARS-CoV-2 infection varied in their ability to accurately identify infected individuals. Researchers analyzed existing clinical data and identified factors influencing test performance.
A new study has identified key differences in SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV that affect their behavior, revealing crucial insights into the development of antiviral drugs. The findings suggest that current approaches to drug discovery may not be effective for COVID-19 treatment.
A CRISPR-based method was assessed for screening SARS-CoV-2 among asymptomatic college students. The study found that the method was effective in detecting the virus. The researchers used this approach to identify potential carriers of the virus.
Researchers analyzed protein sequences to understand how SARS-CoV-2 infects cells, identifying short linear motifs involved in endocytosis and autophagy. The findings suggest potential new therapeutic approaches for COVID-19, including the use of existing drugs that interfere with these cellular processes.
A portable, suitcase-based laboratory provides rapid and accurate SARS-CoV-2 testing in regions with limited infrastructure. The mini-lab uses a recombinase polymerase amplification method, producing results in under 15 minutes.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that most people can produce neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in severe cases of COVID-19. These antibodies can be combined to block the virus from spreading, offering a promising approach for treatment and prevention, especially for vulnerable populations.
A new study from the University of Chicago found that asymptomatic cases contribute to community transmission, making up at least 50% of driving force of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This finding supports the crucial role of mask wearing and social distancing in reducing community transmission.
Researchers found that people with cross-reactive antibodies had no protection against SARS-CoV-2, and these antibodies did not correlate with COVID-19 severity. The study suggests that pre-existing immune responses may play a role in reducing disease severity, but more research is needed to confirm this.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School studied SARS-CoV-2 infections and found that remdesivir is effective in blocking virus replication in all cell types in the upper respiratory tract. The study also identified goblet cells as the main producer of pro-inflammatory responses, common in severe COVID-19 cases.
Scientists at UNC-Chapel Hill used a new lab model containing human lung tissue to show that EIDD-2801 effectively halts SARS-CoV-2 replication and prevents infection of human cells. The drug also demonstrated significant reduction in viral shedding in COVID-19 patients.
A new study has detected high levels of neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2-related coronaviruses (SC2r-CoVs) in bats and pangolins in Southeast Asia. The discovery suggests that more SC2r-CoVs may be present in the region, with potential implications for future pandemics.
Animals exhibit various social distancing behaviors to avoid disease transmission, including olfactory cues and avoidance of diseased individuals. This phenomenon provides insights into human responses to pandemics, emphasizing the importance of diagnostic testing for disease reduction.
A cluster of COVID-19 cases at Brigham and Women's Hospital was analyzed to understand the spread of the virus and identify effective control measures. Researchers found that a patient with pulmonary disease likely infected multiple staff members and patients, highlighting the importance of testing, masking, and eye protection.
Researchers found higher expression of genes critical for SARS-CoV-2 entry and immune response, increasing risk of severe illness and late-onset complications. People with Down syndrome may benefit from early vaccination to mitigate these risks.
The study found that a considerable percentage of the Virginia population had been exposed to SARS-CoV-2 following the initial outbreak of COVID-19. Researchers used this data to understand risk factors associated with the virus, contributing to better public health strategies.
A study analyzing Kaiser Permanente members found racial minorities more likely to test positive for COVID-19 than white patients, with Latino patients nearly 4 times as likely. Healthcare workers in Los Angeles expressed hesitancy about getting the COVID-19 vaccine, citing concerns over development and science.
A study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found low SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence rates among French daycare children, indicating minimal transmission within daycare centers. The rate of infection was approximately 3.7%, with positive cases likely infected by an adult household member.
New study by Uppsala University researchers identifies ACE2 and integrin beta3 as potential key players in SARS-CoV-2 cell infection. The proteins interact with cellular processes of uptake and disposal, suggesting hijacking during infection.
A study of 157 healthcare workers in Ekaterinburg, Russia found that aspirating systems with HEPA filters reduced SARS-CoV-2 infection prevalence. Dental clinics using dry suction systems had higher infection rates compared to those utilizing semi-dry and fully filtered systems.
Researchers observed SARS-CoV-2 mutating in a patient with compromised immune system treated with convalescent plasma. The virus developed key mutations similar to the new UK variant, making it more infectious on cells.
A new study reveals climate change has altered habitats, driving growth of forest habitat favored by bats. This created a suitable environment for many bat species to harbor more types of bat-borne coronavirus, including SARS-CoV-2.
Scientists at the Francis Crick Institute have discovered structural similarities between SARS-CoV-2 and a pangolin coronavirus, suggesting that a pangolin coronavirus could infect humans. The study found that the pangolin virus was able to bind to receptors from both pangolins and humans.
Researchers analyzed 851,199 listings from 30 dark web marketplaces between Jan 2020 and Nov 2020 to identify COVID-19 related products. DarkBay/DBay emerged as a prominent platform offering COVID-19 specific listings.
A new DNA-based vaccine platform has been shown to induce potent immune responses in mice, generating high levels of antibodies and strong T cell responses. The vaccine was found to be immunogenic, efficiently neutralizing the SARS-CoV-2 virus after a single immunization.
Researchers analyzed 851,199 listings from 30 dark web marketplaces, identifying 788 COVID-19 related products. The study highlights the importance of monitoring DWMs due to vaccine shortages and potential health risks.
A man in his 40s, treated for mild COVID-19 4 months after a severe initial bout, tested positive twice more. Experts suggest waning immunity may increase risk of reinfection, while milder symptoms second time around could be due to residual immunity from the first infection.
Researchers have developed three nonhuman primate species as potential models of SARS-CoV-2 airborne infection, which can be used to test vaccines and therapies. The studies found that cynomolgus macaques, rhesus macaques, and African green monkeys developed disease similar to mild acute respiratory disease in humans.
Researchers at Bielefeld University have successfully imaged SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus using a helium ion microscope, allowing direct observation of the virus's interaction with host cells. The study provides valuable information on the virus's defense mechanisms and potential treatment strategies.
Researchers identified recurring deletions in SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that prevent antibody binding, allowing viruses to evade the immune system. The study analyzed nearly 150,000 gene sequences and found instances of viruses with these deletions, which have repeatedly arisen in genetically distinct viruses worldwide.
Researchers discovered SARS-CoV-2 mutates by deleting small bits of its sequence, evading neutralizing antibodies. This pattern repeats itself in emerging variants like B.1.1.7, highlighting the need for multiple approaches to combat the virus.