Articles tagged with Sars Cov 2
A machine-learning tool analyzed COVID-19 publications revealing a shortage of basic lab-based studies on the virus's microbiology. This gap may hinder our ability to contain future pandemics.
A study by Hiroshima University researchers found that a specific wavelength of UV light effectively kills the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The 222 nm UVC light is safer to use around humans and can be used to disinfect occupied public spaces, including hospitals.
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.
Researchers found that a strong, coordinated T cell response is predictive of milder disease, while poor immune coordination leads to severe outcomes. Older adults' susceptibility to COVID-19 may be linked to declining naïve T cells and weaker adaptive immune responses.
Researchers at University of California San Diego discovered SARS-CoV-2 uses heparan sulfate to bind to cells. The team found two approaches to reduce virus infection by 80-90%: removing heparan sulfate with enzymes or using heparin as bait, repurposing a widely used medication.
The study tracked strains of SARS-CoV-2 in Arizona, showing that the state remained COVID-free for weeks after the first reported case. The swift action by ASU and Maricopa County public health officials likely prevented an outbreak, allowing the state valuable time for preparedness efforts.
The Arizona COVID-19 Genomics Union tracked SARS-CoV-2 strains in the state, finding that no widespread community transmission occurred until mid-February. The union's efforts helped prevent an outbreak and provided valuable time for preparedness efforts.
A case-control study in Milan, Italy, found a significantly higher rate of SARS-CoV-2 infection among hospitalized children than adults, who were admitted for noninfectious reasons. This suggests that children may be more likely to carry the virus asymptomatically.
Researchers at Sechenov University study immune reactions to develop an effective vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. The key finding is that vaccines should induce high-affinity neutralizing antibodies targeting ACE2, while avoiding eosinophilic complications.
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh isolated the smallest biological molecule to date that neutralizes SARS-CoV-2. The tiny antibody component, known as Ab8, is 10 times smaller than a full-sized antibody and has been shown to be highly effective in preventing and treating SARS-COV-2 infection in mice and hamsters.
Researchers found that a genetic mutation in SIDT1 protein reduces the absorption of MIR2911, a key component in SARS-CoV-2 treatment, leading to reduced antiviral effects. People carrying this mutation had lower serum levels and exosome levels of MIR2911 compared to those without the mutation.
Researchers found that practicing strict social distancing outdoors significantly lowers the likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 infection, while frequent public transportation use increases the risk. The study surveyed over 1,000 people in Maryland and analyzed their social distancing practices and behavior.
A new study by Houston Methodist has developed a uniform, universal COVID-19 antibody test that can quickly and easily screen plasma donors. The test, which uses ELISA assays, was found to have an 80% probability of comparable antibody levels to VN titers at or above FDA-recommended levels for convalescent plasma.
Researchers analyzed 455 SARS-CoV-2 genomes from Washington State and found evidence of a single introduction between January 22 and February 10. The analysis suggests that widespread surveillance is crucial even after the pandemic is brought under control, as community transmission can still occur.
The UNC School of Medicine lab generated high-powered microscopic images showing startlingly high SARS-CoV-2 viral loads on human respiratory surfaces. These images illustrate the incredibly high number of virions produced and released per cell inside the human respiratory system, making a strong case for mask use to limit transmission.
Researchers analyzed COVID-19 patients' blood samples, revealing a unique metabolic signature associated with acute inflammation, liver dysfunction, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The findings may lead to the development of a metabolite-based diagnostic test and inform post-COVID-19 care.
Researchers are co-developing a new, rapid-acting, long-lasting disinfectant spray that instantly kills viruses without harsh chemicals. The spray uses UCF-developed cerium oxide nanoparticles, which have shown therapeutic properties against various diseases.
Researchers developed protein inhibitors that block SARS-CoV-2 interaction with human receptor ACE2, neutralizing virus infection. The small proteins were stable and showed promise for intranasal delivery.
A new study found that 15 out of 102 cat blood samples showed COVID-19 antibodies, with 11 cats having neutralizing antibodies to block the infection. The cats were from Wuhan, where the first outbreak occurred, and had been exposed to humans or other infected animals.
Researchers found that immune cell responses were delayed in males and the elderly, leading to a dysfunctional antiviral response. This study suggests that age and sex may contribute to disease severity in COVID-19 patients., Immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 may vary widely among different patient demographics.
A study by University of Utah Health researchers found that Black essential workers are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 due to their occupations, which increase their risk of exposure to the virus. This disparity is attributed to racial disparities in job classifications and access to healthcare resources.
Researchers have mapped the immune response in children with a rare and life-threatening inflammatory syndrome associated with COVID-19. The study found that the condition differs from Kawasaki disease and severe acute COVID-19, with distinct patterns of immune cell populations, inflammatory cytokines, and autoantibodies.
Recent peer reviews from the MIT Press journal RAPID REVIEWS COVID-19 offer valuable insights into various aspects of COVID-19 research. The analyses suggest that new prognostic scores can guide clinical decision-making and hospital admissions, while estrogen levels have been found to be associated with a reduced risk of severe complic...
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have identified a nanobody that can block SARS-CoV-2 from entering human cells, offering potential as an antiviral treatment for COVID-19. The nanobody, Ty1, neutralizes the virus by binding to its spike protein, preventing infection.
A COVID-19 vaccine candidate has been shown to prevent severe clinical disease in animals, including weight loss, pneumonia, and death. The vaccine elicited a robust immune response and protected non-human primates and Syrian golden hamsters against SARS-CoV-2.
Researchers at Cornell University developed a comprehensive map of coronavirus entry factors, predicting which tissues and cell types are most vulnerable to infection. The study's findings support emerging clinical data on SARS-CoV-2's ability to infect various organs, including the intestines, kidney, and placenta.
The study aims to test the efficacy of LY-CoV555 in reducing viral load and clinical symptoms in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19. The trial will enroll 400 total patients and provide a potential new treatment option for those with compromised immune systems.
A study published in Cell Reports identifies new possible entry points for SARS-CoV-2 into human bodies, including the nasal mucosa and potential hotspots such as the intestine and kidneys. The research provides insights into cellular factors that could contribute to the virus's spread and suggests promising candidates for therapies.
Research suggests that the immunological disturbances found in COVID-19 and obesity overlap, contributing to increased disease severity and mortality. Fat cells accumulate fat and become larger during weight gain, resulting in chronic low-grade inflammation in obesity.
Researchers found comparable immune reactions in clinical follow-up of recovered and seriously ill Covid-19 patients. A strong T-cell and antibody response was detected in both mild and critically ill patients, but did not guarantee recovery.
A study of over 27,000 COVID-19 samples reveals low genetic variation in SARS-CoV-2, suggesting a single vaccine could combat global infections. This finding supports the development of a broadly protective vaccine against COVID-19, building on previous successes with other viruses.
A new LSU Health study reveals that the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor plays a crucial role in the multipronged SARS-CoV-2 attack, leading to widespread COVID-19 infection. The research found high ACE2 expression in various organs and tissues, including the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems.
Researchers identified a new cellular protection pathway that targets a common vulnerability in several pandemic viruses, including Ebola and SARS-CoV-2. The study found that the MHC class II transactivator CIITA induces resistance by activating CD74, which disrupts viral entry into cells.
A new mouse model developed at UNC-Chapel Hill has captured many features of human COVID-19 disease, advancing the development of vaccines and therapeutics. The model has shown promise in protecting mice from infection with various treatments, including mRNA-1273 vaccine candidate.
Researchers discovered that neutralizing antibodies provide protection from SARS-CoV-2 reinfection in a group of sailors who tested positive for these antibodies before embarking on a voyage. The high percentage of infected crew members highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing reinfections.
Dr. Christopher Basler receives $100,000 grant to study enzymes critical for SARS-CoV-2 replication and explore small molecule inhibitors as potential COVID-19 treatments. Early data suggests these drugs could be effective in slowing SARS-CoV-2 growth.
The study examined SARS-CoV-2 positivity rates among hospitalized children with no COVID-19 symptoms. Researchers found that approximately 21% of these patients tested positive for the virus.
Researchers detected SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in untreated wastewater samples from two treatment plants in Louisiana, USA. The virus was only found in untreated waste and not in treated wastewater, indicating standard processing may remove or destroy the virus.
Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 can infect human brain organoids, targeting cortical neurons and NPCs. The study provides evidence for the pathogenesis of neurological complications in COVID-19 patients.
Researchers from Goethe University patented a method to interrupt SARS-CoV-2 signaling pathways using specific inhibitors, blocking viral replication. Tested cancer drugs showed promising results in laboratory experiments.
A consortium of German researchers detects SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in treatment plants, estimating potential transmission risks. The study reveals 3-20 gene equivalents per millilitre of raw wastewater, indicating the degree of infection among residents.
Researchers at MassBiologics discovered a cross-reactive human monoclonal antibody to SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins, blocking ACE2 receptor binding and potentially preventing or limiting COVID-19 disease. The antibodies, in the sIgA isotype, exhibited higher binding affinity and neutralization activity than usual circulating IgG antibodies.
DNA nanoswitches rapidly detect SARS-CoV-2 and other emerging viruses, including Zika and Dengue viruses. The low-cost platform can be performed within hours and provides a solution for resource-limited areas.
A new study maps natural killer cells in COVID-19 patients, finding specific characteristics of activation correlate with disease severity and adaptive NK cells with severe disease. The study suggests future research directions, including the role of NK cell responses in lung tissue and variability over time during SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Researchers found that NK cell activation differed in patients with moderate and severe COVID-19. Adaptive NK cells, which have a greater ability to kill target cells, were observed in severely ill patients.
Researchers identified a strong and specific T cell response in COVID-19 patients who recovered from mild cases, suggesting a long-lived immunity. The study found that these patients' CD4+ T cells belonged to the Th1 category, which effectively fights viruses and stimulates antibody production.
Scientists developed four serological assays to detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and two for neutralizing antibodies, showing that antibody responses appear 5-6 days after symptoms, with neutralizing activity after 7-14 days. The assays were highly sensitive and specific, with varying levels of availability depending on equipment.
A new article by Dr. Ahmad Mourad explores how 'remote misses' in COVID-19 can create a false sense of invulnerability and security, potentially leading to increased risk. This phenomenon is linked to population-wide traumatic experiences and adaptive behavior.
A new case series reports SARS-CoV-2 transmission on a commercial airline flight and among tourists, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures. The study provides valuable insights into the transmission dynamics of SARS-CoV-2, highlighting risk factors and control strategies to mitigate future outbreaks.
Researchers found that genes associated with SARS-CoV-2 entry become more active with age, making heart cells vulnerable to damage. The study suggests that existing medicines can inhibit some of these proteins, and new treatments may be developed to protect the heart.
Researchers designed a novel receptor that binds to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, preventing it from entering cells. The decoy receptor has potent neutralizing activity against SARS-CoV-2 and also acts against SARS-CoV-1, a closely related virus.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center found that some commercially available serological tests only detect N-protein antibodies, which may not indicate immunity to reinfection. S-RBD antibody detection is considered a better indicator of protection against COVID-19 reinfection.
Scientists have identified a small molecule that successfully inhibits influenza A, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 in tissue culture and mice by blocking the interaction of AP2M1 with viral proteins. This finding suggests a possible broad-spectrum antiviral therapy to treat various viruses.
Researchers developed a rapid molecular test called N1-STOP-LAMP that can diagnose SARS-CoV-2 with 100% accuracy in just 20 minutes. The test uses a portable machine and is highly efficient, making it suitable for settings with limited testing capabilities.
Children accounted for only 1408 out of 129704 positive results, equal to 1% of total and 4% of tests carried out on them. The case fatality rate was estimated to be less than 1 in 200 (0.5%)
A study published in The FASEB Journal identifies a protein encoded by SARS-CoV-2 that may facilitate the virus's quick spread through cells. The research highlights key characteristics of the virus that could aid in the development of treatments for COVID-19.
A team of scientists from Hokkaido University has successfully developed an adsorption-extraction technique to efficiently detect SARS-CoV-2 in untreated wastewater. This breakthrough method, using a surrogate virus like murine hepatitis virus, offers a fast and economical way to track the spread of COVID-19 at a larger scale.
Researchers at Northwestern University have uncovered a new vulnerability in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein's binding site, which enables the virus to infect host cells. A negatively charged molecule can block this site, inhibiting viral transmission.
A study conducted at a large community hospital found that COVID-19 was prevalent among healthcare workers, with significant exposure rates reported. The findings underscore the importance of implementing robust infection control protocols to protect healthcare personnel and prevent further transmission.