Articles tagged with Sars Cov 2
A global study has identified common vulnerabilities among three lethal coronaviruses, including frequently hijacked cellular pathways. The study highlights shared cellular processes and protein targets that could be considered as targets for therapeutic interventions.
If SARS-CoV-2 becomes endemic, its pattern of transmission will depend on factors like vaccine availability and social factors. Greater monitoring of interactions with other respiratory viruses is needed to mitigate potential outbreaks.
Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno have developed a novel COVID-19 rapid test using a nanotube-based electrochemical biosensor that detects SARS-CoV-2 virus in nasal swabs or exhaled breath. The test is simple, inexpensive, and non-invasive, with potential applications for diagnosis of other respiratory viral diseases.
A new study published in Psychological Science reveals that empathy is a key factor in preventing the spread of COVID-19. The research shows that individuals with higher empathy levels are more likely to keep their distance and wear face masks to protect vulnerable populations.
The study revises previous estimates of excess deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic, exploring cause-specific mortality rates. It highlights relationships between lifting restrictions and excess deaths from various causes.
The study examines the risk of mother-to-newborn transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection and finds that it occurs in approximately 0.3% of cases. Newborns born to mothers with active SARS-CoV-2 infection are at increased risk for respiratory complications, including pneumonia.
Researchers found that higher antibody levels in sicker patients correlate with disease severity, but surprisingly, many elderly patients produced as strong an antibody response as younger adults. The study suggests that a vaccine may not need to achieve the highest possible RBD-S antibody levels.
New research reveals SARS-CoV-2 can survive on surfaces for up to 28 days, with longer survival times found on smooth surfaces like glass and stainless steel. The study suggests establishing surface survivability is critical for developing risk mitigation strategies in high contact areas.
Researchers have found that REGN-COV2 offers benefits in animal models mimicking SARS-CoV-2 infection pathology, providing evidence for its therapeutic potential both as a preventative measure and treatment. The study demonstrates significant protection against weight loss and viral load reduction in golden hamsters treated with the drug.
A study found that SARS-CoV-2's ORF3b is a potent interferon antagonist, impairing the immune system in COVID-19 patients. This may explain the disease's poor induction of type I interferon responses.
Researchers found that serum antibodies from recovered SARS patients effectively neutralized SARS-CoV-2 in vitro. The study also discovered that mice and rabbits immunized with a specific RBD elicited stronger antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2.
Nagoya University scientists have developed a laboratory technique to rapidly select synthetic proteins that strongly bind to SARS-CoV-2. The approach, called TRAP display, could be used to develop sensitive antigen tests and neutralization antibodies for infected patients.
The study aims to examine the effectiveness of combining antiviral remdesivir with a highly concentrated solution of antibodies that neutralize SARS-CoV-2. The treatment is being tested in hospitalized adults with COVID-19 in various countries, with the goal of reducing the risk of serious illness and death.
Researchers developed a novel grid to minimize sample movement in single-particle cryo-EM, resulting in higher image quality and increased data throughput. The new support film, dubbed 'hexAuFoil,' reduces particle displacement and enables the collection of clearer protein structures.
Research shows COVID-19 patients with and without diabetes have similar immune responses to the SARS-CoV-2 'spike' protein. Higher blood glucose levels are strongly associated with increased mortality in both groups.
Researchers identified a protein, factor D, that enables the virus to turn the immune system against healthy cells. Inhibiting this protein can curtail inflammatory reactions and prevent cell destruction.
A case series of 192 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients in Southern California investigated transmission routes and local community spread within the Los Angeles metropolitan area. The study found that multiple transmission routes existed, including household, healthcare-associated, and travel-related cases.
A study at Cedars-Sinai found that most COVID-19 patients in Southern California were infected by a variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus introduced from New York state via Europe, not directly from China. The genetic analysis identified unique clusters of cases linked to specific transmission routes.
Researchers found that sofosbuvir-terminated RNA is more resistant to SARS-CoV-2's proofreader than remdesivir-terminated RNA, supporting its use in COVID-19 clinical trials. This resistance enables effective targeting of the virus's polymerase, sustaining virulence.
A study found that individuals with a previous infection from a different type of coronavirus had less severe COVID-19 symptoms and were more likely to survive. However, this immunity did not prevent them from getting infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Patients with rare inherited immune disorders had similar disease outcomes to the general population after SARS-CoV-2 infection, with some immune defects even appearing protective against severe disease. However, younger male patients with PIDs were more likely to require ICU admission and suffer severe COVID-19.
A Chinese study suggests that wearing eyeglasses for over eight hours a day may provide some protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins Medicine cautions that the findings are not conclusive and more research is needed to confirm their validity.
Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2's spike protein can suppress pain signaling pathways, leading to reduced pain relief in COVID-19 patients. This discovery may help explain why many people with COVID-19 experience few or no symptoms despite being contagious.
Scientists found that some COVID-19 antibodies provide stronger protection than others against reinfection, but not all individuals who have had the disease generate neutralizing antibodies. The study aims to answer how much neutralizing antibody is needed to prevent infection or reinfection.
A computer model reveals that a specific region of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein acts as a superantigen, triggering a massive immune response and leading to severe inflammation in some COVID-19 patients. The study also suggests that therapies targeting toxic shock syndrome may be effective for managing MIS-C and cytokine storm in adults.
Researchers have identified small molecules that target the RNA genome of SARS-CoV-2, interfering with viral gene expression and targeting the RNA for destruction. By attaching a molecule called RIBOTAC, which recruits an RNA-chopping cellular enzyme, these compounds can increase potency by 10-fold.
A computer model shows that SARS-CoV-2 spike protein's superantigenic features interact with human T cells, leading to a 'cytokine storm' and severe inflammation. Researchers found similarities between this region and bacterial proteins causing toxic shock syndrome.
Researchers identified a time delay in the production of an inhibitory factor that triggers cell refractoriness to interferon treatments, suggesting strategies for enhanced therapeutic response rates.
A large cohort of COVID-19 patients was analyzed using VirScan technology, revealing epitopes recognized by a large fraction of patients and cross-reactivity with other human coronaviruses. The study also found sex differences in antibody responses and a machine learning model that accurately classified SARS-CoV-2-infected patients.
A survey study explores public preferences for COVID-19 vaccine allocation. The results show that most people prioritize vaccine distribution to high-risk groups, including seniors and individuals with chronic health conditions. This preference is expected to influence healthcare policy decisions.
Researchers at University of Cincinnati discover sphingosine, a natural element, can interfere with SARS-CoV-2 binding to human cells, preventing infection. The study suggests sphingosine could be used as a nasal spray to prevent or treat COVID-19.
Researchers have identified potential therapeutic effects of dipyridamole in treating severely ill patients with COVID-19. The study also revealed unique drug targeting sites on the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein, which can help guide the design of novel antiviral agents.
A contact tracing study found that wearing masks all the time reduced COVID-19 infection risk by 77% compared to not wearing them. Consistent practice of handwashing and social distancing also significantly reduced the risk, with benefits observed when maintaining at least a 1-metre distance from patients.
A team of researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and University of Texas Medical Branch has developed a method to disinfect N95 masks using moderate heat and high relative humidity. This process extends the ability to reuse masks, potentially reducing shortages, and can also be used to decontaminate other viruses.
A study found that SARS-CoV-2 emergence was associated with a significant decrease in the circulation of other common respiratory viruses. Patients with COVID-19 had worse clinical outcomes and were more likely to develop pneumonia compared to those with co-infections.
A systematic review and meta-analysis compared the susceptibility to and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among children and adolescents. The study highlights differences in susceptibility between age groups, with varying levels of protection against severe illness.
Researchers at DZNE identified effective antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, which could trigger undesired side effects when binding to various organs. These neutralizing antibodies can prevent the virus from entering cells and reproducing, helping immune cells eliminate the pathogen.
Researchers found that over 10% of young, healthy individuals with severe COVID-19 have misguided antibodies attacking their immune system. A genetic mutation in type I interferon production is also common among these patients.
A new study has investigated the association between a positive SARS-CoV-2 test during pregnancy and complications in mothers and their newborn babies. The researchers found no higher prevalence of complications during delivery or of ill-health in the neonates, but did note a higher prevalence of preeclampsia in infected women.
A head-to-head comparison of five SARS-CoV-2 antibody assays reveals that the Siemens and Oxford assays performed with the highest sensitivity and specificity, meeting regulatory targets. The study emphasizes the importance of accurately evaluating test performance to understand limitations and improve usage.
Recent studies suggest COVID-19 may cause a range of cardiovascular problems, from mild cell damage to life-threatening cardiogenic shock. The causes of these heart issues are still unknown, with factors such as inflammation response and autoimmune phenomena being investigated.
Researchers built an interactome that includes a human lung cell host network integrated with a SARS-CoV-2 network, revealing potential molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets for COVID-19. The study identified 33 high-value SARS-CoV-2 targets involved in viral entry, proliferation, and survival.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a novel mechanism of action by remdesivir against SARS-CoV-2, which affects the viral replication machinery. This finding is crucial for improving treatments and building on the existing antiviral drug.
MPs are urging the Prime Minister to address the health, wellbeing, and employment arrangements for those living with Long Covid. The call comes after receiving first-hand accounts from hundreds of people living with the condition, highlighting the need for formal recognition and support.
A US study found a steady decline in initial SARS-CoV-2 viral loads among hospitalised patients from April to June 2020, coinciding with a decrease in deaths. The authors suggest an association between initial viral load and mortality, but note that exact reasons for the decline are unclear.
An observational study examined the risk factors for hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, and death among patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found that older age, underlying comorbidities, and low oxygen saturation were associated with increased risk of severe illness.
New research links diabetes to risk of COVID-19 infection and differential outcomes, highlighting the importance of optimising blood sugar control in people with type 1 and 2 diabetes. Better control appears to be an important modifier of COVID-19 severity, suggesting a therapeutic opportunity for diabetes management.
A study of 213 asymptomatic individuals found they carried the same amount of virus in their noses and throats as symptomatic patients. This raises concerns about their potential role in driving the spread of COVID-19.
A systematic review of air contamination with SARS-CoV-2 in hospitals found high levels of viral RNA in patient toilets, staff areas and public spaces. The positivity rate was 27.5% in close patients' environments, with lower rates in distant areas.
A meta-analysis of studies shows that 40% of healthcare workers with COVID-19 are asymptomatic, increasing the risk of silent transmission. Healthcare workers exposed to COVID-19 are at risk of severe complications and death, highlighting the need for universal screening.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that true asymptomatic cases of SARS-CoV-2 comprise a minority of infections. The researchers estimated that 20% (95% CI 17-25) of COVID-19 infections remained asymptomatic during follow-up.
A team of scientists has created a fluorescent nanoparticle probe that mimics how SARS-CoV-2 infects cells, allowing for rapid testing of potential therapeutic agents. The probe's ability to track viral attachment and effects on cells in real-time makes it a powerful tool for drug discovery.
Researchers found lower frequencies of immune cells needed to expel the virus in older patients, leading to reduced effectiveness in fighting off SARS-CoV-2. The study suggests that cytotoxic T cells play a key role in controlling early infections, but further studies are needed to harness their potential for immunotherapy.
A team of scientists has discovered a druggable pocket in the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein that could be used to stop the virus from infecting human cells. The pocket, which binds to linoleic acid, plays a crucial role in viral infectivity and is involved in COVID-19 disease progression.
Researchers discovered a cat named Negrito became infected with SARS-CoV-2 after exposure to its owner, who had COVID-19. The study found that Negrito developed antibodies against the virus, suggesting an immune response was triggered.
Researchers at UiT The Arctic University of Norway found that people who were satisfied with their country's response to COVID-19 had better well-being and lower perceived risk of getting the virus. Dissatisfaction led to increased stress levels and fear, while trust in society and government was linked to improved mental health.
Researchers have identified 9 antibody-like proteins that bind to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, including 4 with neutralizing activity. These proteins show promise for developing diagnostic tests and treatments for COVID-19.
A study found that a significant number of pet cats and dogs develop antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 after being exposed to the virus through contact with their owners. The study suggests that pets may be at risk of infection if their owners have COVID-19.
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have characterized ten distinct structures of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and its interaction with human cells. The study provides new insight into the virus's ability to infect human cells and informs the development of vaccines and treatments.
A study investigating SARS-CoV-2 infections on 16 Dutch mink farms found evidence of zoonotic transmission, where the virus jumped between people and minks. The study revealed that over 66% of farm workers had SARS-CoV-2 infection, suggesting direct contact with infected minks was a primary mode of transmission.