Articles tagged with Sars Cov 2
A Scripps Research and eMed study found that COVID-19 rebound cases are more common than previously reported, affecting up to 14.2% of Paxlovid-treated patients and 9.3% of untreated patients. Rebound is measured by positive test results or symptom recurrence after initial clearance.
A new study by Rice University and Houston Health Department shows that wastewater-based monitoring is an effective way to detect viral outbreaks in schools. The system allows for early detection of illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, enabling strategies to stop the onset of potential outbreaks.
Researchers identify 32 human monoclonal antibodies that can block SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-1, and MERS-CoV coronaviruses. These antibodies target a vulnerable site on the viral spike protein, offering potential for broad protection against future pandemics.
A recent study found that bacterial co-infection in COVID-19 patients significantly increased the risk of death, intensive care unit admission, and mechanical ventilation. The study reviewed 13,781 COVID-19 inpatient encounters and identified laboratory trends associated with COVID-19 bacterial co-infection.
A new method developed by Flatiron Institute researchers can diagnose COVID-19 with near-perfect accuracy, even in asymptomatic patients. The technique monitors the body's molecular response to a viral attack and measures mRNA molecules to identify an immune response.
A new methodology detects RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2 using polypurine hairpins that capture viral RNA and form a high-affinity triplex. The Triplex Enhanced Nucleic Acid Detection Assay (TENADA) is faster and more effective than the PCR test, providing results in under an hour.
Researchers at Arizona State University describe an innovative therapy using transient expression in tobacco plants to produce a monoclonal antibody against SARS-CoV-2. This class 4 mAb provides key advantages over existing treatments, including mutation resistance and universal protection against emerging variants.
Researchers have found that the naturally occurring amino acid ALA can reduce the expression of ACE2 on cell membranes, potentially lowering SARS-CoV-2's infectious capabilities. The study also reveals an underlying mechanism involving the production of heme, which is boosted by co-administering ALA with an iron source.
Two new papers demonstrate the use of Outbreak.info as a standardized source for COVID-19 data, tracking daily variant reports and a Research Library with aggregated research publications. The platform provides essential tools for researchers to track virus evolution and improve diagnostics.
Researchers created a statistical model to predict who is resistant to COVID-19, using health characteristics from electronic records. The model identified patterns in patients with similar features, suggesting that genetic and environmental differences influence their defense against the virus.
A study found that the Omicron variant can dodge immune responses with just one or two dramatic mutations, while combinations of many mutations enable it to escape specific antibodies. The research suggests trade-offs between escaping immunity and maintaining infective capacity.
A new study explores the complexity of parents' decision-making processes regarding SARS-CoV-2 vaccination for their children. The research highlights the importance of individualized discussions with healthcare providers to help interpret evidence and provide tailored recommendations.
Researchers from the University of Oxford-affiliated researchers found that high doses of ivermectin are ineffective in treating COVID-19. The study used the PLATCOV trial to compare the rates at which different drugs reduced the viral load of SARS-CoV-2, and the results suggest that ivermectin does not have measurable antiviral activity.
A new analysis reveals that convalescent plasma can be used to prevent hospitalizations and save lives in COVID-19 patients. Early treatment with high doses of antibodies significantly reduced hospitalization rates by up to 50%. The study provides a roadmap for using convalescent plasma as an effective therapy for future pandemics.
A global study found that almost half of newborns were separated from their mother, leading to low breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact rates. Despite rare transmission and mild cases, the pandemic's impact on family-centred care was significant.
Researchers have generated induced pluripotent stem cells from bats, gaining insights into the relationship between bats and viruses. The study may also shed light on bats' remarkable defenses against aging and cancer.
Researchers have identified novel host protease determinants that facilitate SARS-CoV-2 entry, including membrane-type matrix metalloproteinases (MT-MMP) and ADAM families. Inhibiting these proteases may provide a new treatment strategy against the Omicron variant.
A new mathematical model uses wastewater samples to predict COVID-19 cases five days in advance, detecting SARS-CoV-2 RNA with high sensitivity. The approach could help authorities tailor infection control policies when clinical surveillance is lacking.
A new approach to boosting protein production has been discovered, which could lead to the generation of a universal booster for protein production. The breakthrough centers on Exin21, a sequence that increases mRNA synthesis and stability and protein expression and secretion.
A study found that an allele of the HLA Class 1 gene may protect individuals from severe COVID-19. The researchers compared the immune systems of patients in different waves of the pandemic and discovered a link between the HLA-A*01:01 allele and effective T-cell immunity against new variants.
Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 in 18.2% of tear samples from patients with COVID-19, and in 12.1% of those collected using the Schirmer strip test. The method may predict patient prognosis and provide an alternative to uncomfortable nasopharyngeal swabbing.
A new Northwestern University study suggests that COVID-19 boosters may be less effective due to pre-existing antibodies from initial vaccinations. The study found that these antibodies can rapidly clear the booster from the body, limiting its efficacy. Increasing time between vaccinations is also beneficial for the immune response.
Researchers estimated that three doses of Comirnaty and CoronaVac vaccines were 48% and 30% effective, respectively, in preventing Omicron infection. Boosters improved efficacy to 69% and 56%, but protection waned over time.
A new class of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies has been shown to neutralise multiple variants of the virus, providing hope for a better antiviral medication. The antibodies work by attaching to a partially hidden part of the virus' spike protein that would be difficult for it to mutate.
Researchers found Paxlovid to be effective in preventing severe COVID-19 and reducing all-cause mortality in adults over 70 years old with mild disease. The study concluded that testing for SARS-CoV-2 and access to Paxlovid are crucial for those at risk of severe infection.
A recent study has linked high levels of certain chemical pollutants to an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 disease. The research found that individuals with higher blood concentrations of specific pollutants were more likely to become infected and develop the disease.
A study by Emory University researchers found that extracts from two wild plants, tall goldenrod and eagle fern, inhibited the ability of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to infect living cells. The active compounds are present in miniscule quantities, making it ineffective for self-treatment, but may hold promise as medicines against COVID-19.
Researchers from the University of Colorado found that Paxlovid significantly reduced rates of hospitalization and death among non-hospitalized patients infected with recent Omicron subvariants. The study used real-world data from 28,000 patients and suggested a benefit for Paxlovid in preventing severe disease.
New UCLA research finds that tobacco smoking and vaping can predispose healthy young people to increased inflammation and severe COVID-19. The study, published in Journal of Molecular Medicine, found higher levels of key proteins in plasma from smokers and vapers compared to non-smokers.
A study published in Science reveals that three faulty genes fail to regulate the immune system's response to SARS-CoV-2, leading to inflammatory overload and multisystem inflammation syndrome in children (MIS-C). The findings provide a mechanistic explanation for Kawasaki disease-like symptoms in these patients.
Researchers identified a protein in lung cells that blocks SARS-CoV-2 infection and forms a natural protective barrier. The discovery opens up an entirely new area of immunology research around LRRC15 and offers promising prospects for developing new drugs to prevent viral infection or treat fibrosis in the lungs.
A large study of 2.8 million patients found no direct link between SARS-CoV-2 infection and new-onset alcohol use disorder, suggesting other factors at play during the pandemic
Scientists have identified small molecules that can target the 'Achilles' heel' of SARS-CoV-2, a less mutation-prone segment of the spike protein. These compounds could serve as a starting point for developing effective treatments for COVID-19.
A study published in eLife found that one in two cancer patients developed long COVID-19 symptoms persisting beyond six months after initial infection. Female cancer patients were more likely to experience long COVID-19 compared to men, and most cases could be managed as outpatients.
A study of 1,981 women found that pre-infection healthy lifestyle was associated with a lower risk of post–COVID-19 condition. Lifestyle interventions may help reduce PCC symptoms or mitigate the development of other post-infection syndromes.
A new study from Kyushu University examines the spillover effects of rising energy prices following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. The research finds that a 20% increase in energy prices has little impact on global prices and social surplus, with only a small effect on certain sectors.
The study found that CoronaVac and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines remained effective against severe SARS-CoV-2 Omicron outcomes, but older individuals' protection waned after six months. A booster dose is recommended for older patients to restore immunity.
Researchers develop eRapid sensor technology to detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, enabling fast and multiplexed testing at the point-of-care. The device distinguishes between antibody types targeting different viral proteins with high sensitivity and specificity.
A study found white-tailed deer are harboring SARS-CoV-2 variants that were once widely circulated but no longer found in humans. The deer may have become infected through contact with humans, and the virus has adapted to the deer population, potentially making it more transmissible between them.
Researchers at Saint Louis University found that COVID-19 vaccination does not interfere with cancer immunotherapy in previously vaccinated patients. The study supports recommending vaccination to patients with cancer, including those receiving systemic therapies.
A study by Osaka University compared the sensitivity of rapid antigen tests (RATs) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for the Omicron variant of COVID-19. The results showed that RATs had a high enough sensitivity to suggest frequent testing using RATs may still be the best approach.
Researchers have developed an AI-based resource to assist individuals in identifying recommended actions based on their clinical profile and COVID at-home test results. The system uses a combination of symptoms and home tests to provide more accurate diagnoses and improve patient care.
A Hong Kong study published in Canadian Medical Association Journal found a 90% reduction in COVID-19 deaths among adults with multimorbidity who received a booster dose of vaccine. The study, which included over 120,000 participants, suggests that booster vaccination can significantly lower mortality rates in vulnerable populations.
Researchers identified 7 key symptoms of long COVID, including heart issues and joint pain, in a study of 52,461 patients. The findings could help healthcare providers diagnose and treat the condition more effectively.
New research reveals that children's immune systems have a strong initial reaction to coronavirus but don't develop long-lasting memory T cells like adults do. This means they are at risk of getting sick when reinfected and may experience an immune over-reaction, leading to severe symptoms.
Researchers at the Istituto di Ricerca in Biomedicina discovered coldspots within the coronavirus spike protein, which are remarkably conserved across variants. Antibodies targeting these coldspots showed promise in blocking virus infection and protecting against disease in preclinical models.
Experts call for a nuanced discussion around gain of function research, highlighting its benefits for human health and its potential to reduce future disease outbreaks. The authors emphasize the need for evidence-based policies that balance safety concerns with the importance of this research in protecting humanity from viral threats.
A new COVID-19 vaccine has been tested in humans, showing a good immune response and few side effects. The effectiveness of the vaccine is currently being investigated, but initial results suggest it could provide long-lasting immunity.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 studies found mRNA COVID-19 vaccination to be associated with lower risks of SARS-CoV-2 infections, severe illnesses, and hospitalizations. While vaccination was linked to higher adverse event rates, the frequency of severe adverse events remained low.
Researchers at University of California San Diego have identified a new host-cell factor, PCIF1, which plays a crucial role in SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study suggests that targeting PCIF1 could lead to more effective and sustainable COVID-19 treatments.
Pregnant women infected with Covid-19 may experience varying degrees of damage to their placentas, potentially harming fetal development and health. The study found that pre-Omicron variants caused more severe lesions than Omicron subvariants.
Researchers discover piperlongumine (PL), extracted from long pepper, as a potent antiviral treatment for SARS-CoV-2. PL delays disease progression and reduces lung inflammation in mice infected with alpha, delta, and omicron variants, offering a potential solution to combat upcoming outbreaks.
Researchers from UCalgary and the World Health Organization found that people with hybrid immunity have the highest level of protection against severe illness and reinfection, offering a key finding for public policy makers. The study suggests vaccination should be prioritized even among those who have had COVID-19.
Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 virus in almost all plane wastewater at three UK airports during a period of COVID restrictions. The study suggests that wastewater testing could be used to monitor the general health of passengers on flights entering the country, potentially capturing 8-14% of SARS-CoV-2 cases.
A study of 1,832 US adults found that unvaccinated individuals and those with moderate to severe acute illness symptoms were more likely to experience prolonged symptoms. Vaccination significantly reduced the risk of pulmonary, diabetes, neurological, and mental health encounters six months after COVID-19 onset.
Researchers at Linköping University discovered that COVID-19 patients experience negative impacts on their immune cells six months after infection. The study highlights a connection between disease severity and immune cell dysfunction, suggesting the need for early antiviral treatment to prevent prolonged inflammation.
Long COVID is a systemic condition with over 100 reported symptoms, including fatigue, anxiety, and breathing issues. Treatment focuses on symptom management through structured programs and guideline-directed mental health supports.
A new study by Osaka University researchers demonstrates that the endothelial cell-specific protein Robo4 plays a crucial role in reducing mortality in severe infection. By upregulating Robo4 expression, a drug treatment can decrease vascular permeability and increase survival rates.
Scientists have identified a new class of 'bivalent' antibodies that can bind to two viral targets at once, neutralizing multiple Omicron variants. These potent antibodies retain efficacy against early SARS-CoV-2 variants and several later Omicron sub-lineages.
Researchers found that high levels of mucosal IgA antibodies in the airways protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection for at least eight months, with a 90% lower risk of re-infection. Participants with prior infections generated stronger mucosal immune responses to Omicron breakthrough infections.