Research on the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself. Covers antiviral trials, antibody neutralization, viral escape, and rapid detection methods.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new type of nanoparticle that can both deliver vaccines and act as an adjuvant to generate a strong immune response. The particles, called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), were shown to be effective in delivering the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and boosting the immune system's response.
A recent study published in Lancet Infectious Diseases found that vaccinated individuals had a lower risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes compared to unvaccinated individuals. The study also showed significant reductions in hospitalization and death rates from COVID-19, particularly among older individuals and those with compromised immune...
A large binational study found that SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with an increased risk of autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) extending up to 12 months after infection. Vaccination showed some protection against AIRDs, particularly among those who were vaccinated.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a new class of antiviral drugs that stimulate interferon production to reverse the effect of SARS-CoV-2 on cells. The study shows that these drugs can significantly reduce the amount of virus found in the lungs and prevent severe symptoms.
Researchers found a direct link between loss of smell and decreased olfactory neuron population in nasal mucosa. Early corticosteroid treatment improved recovery of olfactory abilities in animals.
A UC Riverside-led study has devised a way to make large quantities of the Membrane protein, which plays a crucial role in how SARS-CoV-2 acquires its spherical structure. The researchers found that when the M protein interacts with the membrane, it coaxes the membrane to curve, leading to the virus's characteristic shape.
Researchers found that e-liquids containing propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin enhance COVID-19 infection, while those with benzoic acid prevent it. Vapers are advised to quit or switch to e-liquids with acidic pH for better protection.
A long-term analysis of over 8,000 samples revealed that SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccine-induced antibody responses are long-lasting. Booster vaccination equalized differences in antibody concentration between participants with and without pre-existing immunity.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that vaccinated adults with hematologic cancers were at high risk of severe COVID-19, even after receiving treatment. The study included 6,122 patients and showed no significant decline in severe cases through mid-2022.
Research identifies interferon gamma (IFN-γ) as a potential biomarker for Long COVID fatigue and highlights an immunological mechanism underlying the disease. High levels of IFN-γ persisted in some patients for up to 31 months, coinciding with symptom resolution after vaccination.
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine identifies potential biomarkers for ME/CFS diagnosis and treatment. Researchers found that patients can be divided into subgroups based on immune system function, revealing differences in intestinal barrier function and immune competence.
A clinical study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that COVID-19 vaccines still provide a robust immune response in immunocompromised individuals, including cancer patients undergoing treatment. This finding is crucial for clinicians and patients, as it suggests vaccination can help prevent infection and disease progression.
A study of 61,000 adults aged 45 or older found that those who adhered to physical activity guidelines before the pandemic had lower odds of developing or being hospitalized for COVID-19. This suggests that higher prepandemic physical activity levels may be linked to reduced risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalization.
Researchers document various reasons for long-term clinical symptoms in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Key findings include immune system alterations, chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and mitochondrial issues contributing to post-COVID syndrome.
A Bayesian model analysis reveals how key covariates affect SARS-CoV-2 viral kinetics at individual and population levels. The study identifies intrinsic differences between Omicron and Delta variants, shedding light on their growth drivers.
Researchers created a DNA-based vaccine that mimics the structure of a virus, inducing a strong antibody response against SARS-CoV-2. The vaccine uses a DNA scaffold carrying viral proteins, allowing the immune system to focus on the target antigen.
La Jolla Institute researchers discovered that prior exposure to a common cold coronavirus partially protects mice from lung damage during a subsequent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Harnessing 'cross-reactive' T cells may lead to novel vaccines with broad, pan-coronavirus protection.
A recent study published in Lancet Microbe suggests that immunocompromised patients are at higher risk for COVID infections, but prolonged infections lasting weeks to months are uncommon. The study found that specific conditions, such as B-cell cancers and autoimmune diseases, increase the risk of prolonged infections.
A new study from Tulane University found that perlecan LG3, a protein commonly found in blood vessels and the brain, forms a stable bond with the COVID spike protein, enhancing the virus's ability to bind with cells. This discovery may lead to new forms of treatment or prevention for COVID-19.
A research team at the University of Göttingen has discovered 'protective switches' in the SARS-CoV-2 virus that shield it from attacks by the immune system. These molecular structures were found to stabilize the protein's structure against oxidative damage, allowing the virus to replicate effectively.
A new study finds that infants born full-term to mothers infected with COVID-19 during pregnancy are three times more likely to develop respiratory distress compared to uninfected infants. Vaccination prior to infection was found to be protective, reducing the risk by half.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory successfully produced large quantities of human ACE2 receptor protein in mouse cells, allowing for the study of viral receptors and potentially developing new therapies. The method could also facilitate the production of other complex proteins that have proven difficult to produce.
Research reveals memory T cells formed after Omicron breakthrough infection provide enhanced immunity against future variants. The study suggests the immune system adapts to combat emerging strains, leading to higher chances of inducing memory T cell defenses.
Researchers found that the complement system remains activated in Long Covid patients, causing cell damage and tissue destruction. This abnormal activity can lead to thromboinflammation and other symptoms of the condition.
Researchers used the 2022 FIFA World Cup to study COVID-19 spread and hospitalizations at mass gatherings. They found that pre-travel screenings did little to prevent infections, but pre-match testing with rapid antigen or reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction tests was more effective.
Researchers have developed a rapid COVID-19 test inspired by bioluminescence, detecting SARS-CoV-2 protein with the same accuracy as current techniques but in just one minute. The test uses a molecule from crustaceans to produce light when interacting with the virus's spike protein.
A new vaccine design has been developed by a UC Riverside-led research team, which uses preexisting immunity to the influenza virus to help kickstart the production of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. The vaccine aims to speed up the immune response and provide better protection for people who still lack immunity to the coronavirus.
A new study finds that SARS-CoV-2 can infect dopamine neurons, causing them to lose their ability to grow and divide, leading to inflammation and potentially severe neurological symptoms. Researchers discovered three drugs that may block or rescue infected dopamine neurons from senescence.
Researchers analyzed electronic health records and contact tracing data to evaluate the effectiveness of prevention measures implemented during the pandemic. Universal masking was found to be a crucial factor in preventing SARS-CoV-2 transmissions in healthcare settings, with airborne negative pressure rooms and N95 respirator masks no...
The Organoid group at the Hubrecht Institute produced the first organoid model of the human conjunctiva, which functions like real human conjunctiva. The researchers discovered a new cell type called tuft cells that become more abundant under allergy-like conditions and play a role in eye's reaction to allergies.
Researchers designed a synthetic antigen with high expression levels and stability, offering potential for quick adaptation to new variants. The vaccine candidate triggered strong immune response in animal models and showed enhanced protective efficacy.
Researchers analyzed immune cells in people with long COVID, finding chronic inflammation and faulty T-cell activity. They also discovered signs of exhaustion and 'tissue-homing' T-cells, suggesting persistent infections may cause the condition.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a nasal spray with IgA antibodies that can protect mice from SARS-CoV-2 infection. The treatment significantly diminished virus load in infected mice and showed stronger binding to the spike protein compared to original IgG antibodies.
Researchers have found that ultraviolet laser light can degrade coronavirus particles by damaging their genetic material and protein spikes. The study reveals the effectiveness of UVC laser radiation in inactivating SARS-CoV-2, with applications for public disinfection and decontamination.
Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School have discovered a potential intranasal vaccine candidate that provides improved, longer-lasting immunity against COVID-19. The vaccine boosts mucosal antibody response and enhances long-term immune protection through preferential induction of airway-resident T cells and central memory T cells.
The Pirola variant of SARS-CoV-2 has rediscovered an entry pathway into lung cells that was previously used by earlier variants, which may promote the development of pneumonia. The virus uses the cellular enzyme TMPRSS2 for entry and is resistant to most therapeutic antibodies.
The BA.2.86 omicron subvariant can infect human lung cells more efficiently than previous omicron variants, raising concerns about potential severe disease symptoms. While bivalent mRNA vaccines can neutralize BA.2.86, the efficiency is reduced, emphasizing the importance of getting a newer booster vaccine.
A machine-learning enabled risk assessment model detects 72.8% of variants causing over 1,000 cases per million people within a week, increasing to 80.1% after two weeks. The model identifies key factors such as variant spike mutations and early infection trajectories.
The study found that solely the omicron variant influences cell cycle genes, leading to increased p21 expression and a senescence-associated secretory phenotype. This results in premature cellular senescence, potentially contributing to the reported cytokine storm and development of long-COVID.
A new study from Scripps Research scientists and collaborators found that local transmission of SARS-CoV-2 was driven by travel between locations, not geographic proximity. The partial closure of the U.S.-Mexico border was ineffective in preventing cross-border transmission.
Scientists have developed a new system to display epitopes in mammal cells for immunization studies, potentially speeding up the immunization process. This method allows for targeted immune responses against specific viral proteins without the need to purify antigens.
Two Melbourne-made COVID-19 vaccines demonstrated strong boosting capabilities against SARS-CoV-2 variants in a Phase 1 clinical trial. The vaccines focus the immune response on the receptor binding domain, potentially providing a more efficient approach to boost immunity.
Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 viruses persisting in lung cells for up to 18 months post-infection, despite undetectable upper respiratory tract presence. The study suggests a link between innate immunity failure and virus persistence.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology found that most T cells can still target epitopes on the new Pirola variant, suggesting people may be able to mount a response against it. The study's findings provide positive news in the fight against SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing the importance of vaccination with updated vaccines.
Researchers found that a breakthrough infection builds upon existing memory B cell pool and introduces random mutations that prepare antibodies for new variants. Broad neutralizing antibodies can neutralize all tested Omicron variants.
A randomized clinical trial found that throat specimens had higher sensitivity for rapid antigen testing than nasal specimens when collected by a healthcare worker. In contrast, self-collected nasal specimens showed higher sensitivity for symptomatic participants, suggesting improved sensitivity with dual sampling.
Researchers have discovered that an HIV drug, cobicistat, can stop many coronavirus diseases when given to infected cells at the right concentration. The findings could strengthen antiviral treatments against current and future outbreaks of coronaviruses.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have discovered a novel mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 varies its mode of infection in human cells. The study reveals that the virus can alternate between being highly infectious and avoiding detection by the immune system.
Researchers at UC Riverside found that SARS-CoV-2 entry varies among different species and tissue types, highlighting the need for thorough investigations into viral entry mechanisms. The study's findings suggest that targeting TMPRSS2 may not be effective in preventing COVID-19 infection in mink.
A recent study found that COVID-19 transmission rates in child care centers were only about 2% to 3%, with 1 in 20 symptomatic children testing positive. Vaccination is still highly recommended, as vaccines are a safe and effective way of preventing serious infection.
A study found that cancer patients with COVID-19 had significantly higher mortality and hospitalization rates compared to non-cancer patients, highlighting the increased risk of severe illness. COVID-19 vaccination in cancer patients reduced this risk, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in protecting vulnerable populations.
A computer simulation by Nagoya University researchers found that human behavior, such as lockdowns and isolation measures, influenced the evolution of new COVID-19 strains. The study discovered that SARS-CoV-2 variants with higher peak viral loads were more successful at spreading, but also had shorter infection durations.
A systematic review of air filtration systems found little evidence to support their effectiveness in reducing the risk of viral infections. The study analyzed 32 studies and found no strong evidence that air treatment technologies can protect people from catching airborne respiratory or gastrointestinal infections.
A recent study by the Complexity Science Hub found that at least two-thirds of animal COVID-19 deaths were not reported to official sources. The researchers compiled a comprehensive list of 35 animal species susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the need for improved data exchange and reporting.
Researchers have identified a tiny hinge in coronavirus spikes that allows them to tilt and bend. This bending affects how successfully the spike can infect a cell. The study suggests that disabling the spike's hinges could be a good strategy for designing vaccines and treatments against a broad range of coronavirus infections.
A study found that 20% of patients treated with nirmatrelvir-ritavir (N-R) experienced virologic rebound, a phenomenon where viral load increases after initial decline. In contrast, only 1 untreated patient was affected. The researchers suggest considering the risks and benefits of N-R treatment in patients at low risk for severe disease.
An mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccination before vs. during pregnancy and omicron infection among infants study found that maternal vaccination during the antenatal period was associated with a lower risk of Omicron SARS-CoV-2 infection in infants up to six months of age.
A new study suggests that gargling with salt water may be an effective remedy to improve respiratory symptoms and reduce hospitalization rates in people with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found that both low- and high-dose saline regimens were associated with lower hospitalization rates compared to controls.
A new five-year research project combines AI, virology, and ecology to anticipate future SARS-CoV-2 strains that could pass between animals and people. The team will use artificial intelligence to predict variants and assess risk of spillover from people to wildlife.
A systematic review of prospective studies found that individuals with asthma or rhinitis may be at increased risk of developing long-term symptoms associated with COVID-19. The evidence for these associations was uncertain, highlighting the need for further research.