Articles tagged with Virology
A new study discovered a previously unknown antiviral defense mechanism in sea anemones, revealing that animals may have evolved more than one way to fight viral infections. The findings suggest that fundamentally different antiviral strategies have emerged across the animal kingdom.
Researchers at Texas A&M University develop a laser technique called TRIP to directly measure quantum forces shaping proteins, enabling accurate prediction of how pharmaceutical drugs interact with them. This breakthrough could lead to the design of medicines tailored to specific diseases, revolutionizing precision medicine.
The center will develop new phage-based treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, predicting which phage to use for which patient and designing more effective phages. The goal is to generate unprecedented data and train AI models to identify the right phage for any patient's infection.
Researchers developed a miniaturized human intestine model to study EV-A71 infection, revealing the virus's ability to evade the immune system and persist for extended periods. The model showed long-term viral replication without triggering a strong immune response.
China lacks a dedicated regulatory framework for phage therapy, but recent policy signals encourage development of standards and approval pathways. A three-pillared approach recommends national quality guidelines, phase-appropriate GMP pilot programs, clear product classification, and regional centers with reimbursement mechanisms.
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered that dust can be used to track viral outbreaks in indoor settings. The team identified 54 distinct viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, using a novel sequencing technique. This method has the potential to provide quick and high-resolution insights into what is happening withi...
A new study found that influenza D viruses can vigorously replicate in human cells and lung tissue samples, suggesting a strong potential to spill over to humans. Researchers also detected antibodies against Influenza D in people who work with cattle, but no active human infection has been discovered to date.
Researchers developed a thin plastic film with ultra-fine structures that tear apart viruses on contact, killing them through mechanical force. The film offers a scalable and practical alternative to existing antiviral coatings.
Researchers at ExCELLS/NIPS successfully determined the capsid structure of Melbournevirus at 4.4 Å resolution using cryo-EM. The study's 'block-based reconstruction method' improved resolution, revealing detailed arrangement of proteins constituting the massive capsid.
The study provides new insight into how the tick-borne virus replicates and matures, with detailed three-dimensional images revealing the virus's interior. The researchers also observed how a small genetic difference between variants affects maturation speeds, paving the way for future treatments against TBE.
A new tool, HIV-seq, has been developed to profile rare HIV-infected cells from people with HIV. The tool has recovered and analyzed more HIV-infected cells and higher numbers of HIV RNA within those infected cells. The study has identified key differences in people's HIV-infected cells before versus after starting antiretroviral therapy.
Researchers found that quantifiable HBV RNA levels are associated with a significantly higher risk of HCC, independent of traditional risk factors. Chronic hepatitis B patients with concurrent liver dysfunction should be intensified under surveillance for HCC.
Viral transcription in poxviruses is controlled by a unique protein VITF-3 that acts as a molecular clamp. The study reveals the structural details of this process, including the role of the capping enzyme and the specific start signal recognition.
A single injection of an oncolytic virus recruits immune cells to penetrate and persist deep within brain tumors, inducing long-term infiltration of immune T cells. This therapy expands pre-existing T cells in the brain, leading to a therapeutic benefit for patients with glioblastoma.
A new nanovaccine platform utilizes bacterial lipidation to enhance mucosal immune response against viruses. The lipoSC-RBDST nanovaccine elicits robust secretory IgA and lung-resident memory T cells, providing long-lasting immunity for at least eight months.
A study analyzing bat samples from the Indochina Peninsula identified 137 viral strains across 27 families, including novel species, with Rhinolophidae bats exhibiting high viral diversity. PEDV-related viruses were found in Cambodian bats, further supporting their potential evolutionary source.
A study in the Indochina Peninsula analyzed bat viromes from 197 bats across 16 species, identifying 137 viral strains, including a PEDV-related virus in Cambodian bats. The findings highlight critical surveillance gaps and emphasize the need for enhanced cross-border initiatives to prevent zoonotic outbreaks.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet reveals the Epstein-Barr virus can damage the brain and contribute to multiple sclerosis through molecular mimicry. The researchers found that cross-reactive T cells are significantly more common in people with MS, and targeting these cells may lead to new treatments.
Researchers discover giant virus that infects amoeba, providing further support for nuclear virus origin hypothesis. The new virus, ushikuvirus, has distinct features and unique caps on its surface, which may hold clues to the evolution of complex cells.
A new study published in JAMA Oncology found that the HPV vaccine can protect against severe precancerous lesions of the vulva and vagina. Vaccination before the age of 17 offers the strongest protection, with a 55% lower risk compared to unvaccinated women.
A study from UMBC reveals a conserved RNA-protein interaction as a promising target for broad-spectrum enterovirus antivirals. The researchers found that a fusion protein called 3CD recruits proteins to assemble the replication complex, and targeting this interface could lead to universal drugs.
Researchers have identified two previously unknown circoviruses in short-finned pilot whales and orcas from the Caribbean region of the North Atlantic Ocean. The newly discovered viruses, named shofin circovirus and orcin circovirus, represent a distinct clade within the genus Circovirus.
A study found that viral interactions inside cells influence antiviral resistance outcomes, while a less potent drug may ironically improve its future utility by promoting social interactions in viruses. The researchers suggest a trade-off between hitting the virus hard and allowing resistance to rise.
Researchers at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center are using a human brain-on-a-chip system to study lethal encephalitis viruses and develop treatments. The chip replicates the function of the human brain, allowing scientists to test antiviral drugs in a more accurate and human-like environment.
Researchers at EMBL-EBI developed SPRTA, an interpretable and efficient way to score the reliability of each branch in a phylogenetic tree. This method enables fast and reliable understanding of virus strain evolution, informing better decisions during outbreaks.
Researchers have discovered that human astroviruses bind to a protein in human cells called the neonatal Fc receptor. The study provides a key target for vaccine development and repurposing of existing treatments.
The USF Health Institute for Translational Virology and Innovation advances research on viral diseases, virus-associated cancers, and pandemic pathogens. The institute focuses on understanding the mechanisms of viruses causing tumors and developing comorbidities in HIV patients.
Salk Institute researchers have determined the structure of HIV's integrase protein during its newly discovered function, enabling the development of better HIV therapeutics. The study reveals a surprising flexibility in the protein's architecture, which can interact with both DNA and RNA, paving the way for new integrase-targeting drugs.
The winners of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2025 have been recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to global challenges through applied microbiology. The awards celebrate excellence across various domains, including drug discovery and sustainable agriculture.
A new class of antivirals called Pin1 inhibitors has shown promise in reducing or stopping outbreaks of herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), the common infection behind oral herpes. By stabilizing nuclear membrane structure, Pin1 inhibitors physically trap the virus in the cell nucleus, preventing it from escaping.
A team of UCF researchers is creating a single low-cost test to detect multiple viruses simultaneously, which may be used in resource-limited settings. The test has the potential to save lives by providing quicker and more accessible results.
Researchers argue that AI can strengthen pandemic preparedness by detecting emerging diseases earlier. By combining data from humans, animals, and the environment, AI can reveal patterns and provide insights into potential pathogens.
Researchers studied the impact of different producer cells on herpes virus replication and infectious capacity. They found that slight differences in protein composition can have downstream effects on virus establishment and treatment options.
The Gladstone Infectious Disease Institute is broadening its research scope to tackle pressing health challenges beyond viruses. Scientists are discovering new ways to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and explore the interconnectedness of viruses and bacteria in causing chronic diseases.
A team of international researchers, led by UC Riverside's Scott Pegan, are developing protective antibodies against CCHFV using monoclonal antibody treatments and exploring non-traditional viral targets. The study aims to identify life-saving therapeutics for future nairovirus outbreaks.
Researchers have uncovered how mosquito-borne viruses invade the brain by exploiting specific proteins on blood-brain barrier cells. The study highlights promising molecular targets for future vaccines and antiviral drugs to prevent severe neurological complications.
Research by University of California, Riverside physicist Roya Zandi reveals how viruses form highly symmetrical icosahedral structures around their genomes through a process of self-correction, driven by protein elasticity. This study could lead to designing synthetic nanocontainers for medical and biotech uses.
A serological survey found antibodies against the virus in over 2% of cattle and wildlife samples in southern continental France. The detection highlights the risk of zoonotic transmission and underscores the need for further investigation into explanatory factors.
Researchers have found a clear relationship between koala stress and increased risk of disease, including Chlamydia. The study suggests that high KoRV loads may be weakening the immune system, making koalas more susceptible to diseases such as blindness and infertility.
Researchers mapped the surface envelope glycoprotein of human endogenous retroviruses, opening doors to new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities. The study revealed specific antibodies that target the viral proteins, potentially leading to new cancer immunotherapies and treatments for autoimmune diseases.
Researchers have successfully produced antibodies that kill the parasite carried by the 'kissing bug' that causes the potentially deadly Chagas disease. These antibodies target the parasite's infective stage and show neutralization rates exceeding 95%, making them a key step towards developing an effective vaccine.
Researchers discovered that mitochondria use folate to prevent infection by competing with invading pathogens. In a study on Toxoplasma gondii, scientists found that the parasite grew more slowly when mitochondrial metabolism consumed folate, a critical nutrient for its survival.
A promising African swine fever vaccine candidate offers strong protection against one strain but fails to protect against others. The study highlights the need for region-specific vaccines and calls for further research into matching vaccines to virus types.
The COVID-19 virus replicates using cellular machinery responsible for testosterone production, altering lipid metabolism and potentially leading to lower testosterone levels. This study reveals the mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 targets testicular cells, offering insights into male vulnerability to COVID-19.
A multi-year clinical research study in US children documents the rebound of endemic respiratory viruses after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study shows that non-pharmaceutical interventions decreased circulation rates of common respiratory pathogens in children, enabling more accurate predictions for future outbreaks.
Researchers developed an IBDV VP2 subunit vaccine that induces specific antibodies and protects against bursal atrophy. The study found that using certain adjuvants, such as Montanide ISA 78 VG, enhances the protective effects of the vaccine.
A comprehensive study of over 2,500 bat faecal samples reveals that young bats are frequently infected with multiple coronaviruses. This finding could inform the prediction of emerging riskier coronaviruses and highlights the importance of understanding coronavirus evolution in their natural host.
The BA.2.86 Omicron strain was found to have emerged with a high number of genetic mutations in its spike protein, but failed to become a dominant strain. Its sporadic global detection has raised questions about the possibility of laboratory involvement in its emergence.
Researchers have identified a new strain of orthoreovirus in an Everglades short-tailed shrew, which is believed to be transmissible to humans. The discovery was made possible by the cat, Pepper, whose hunting prowess led to the finding of the virus.
A new study found that a nontargeted screening approach can identify more patients with hepatitis C virus infections than traditional targeted screening methods. The results highlight the need for improved treatment models, as patients who went from diagnosis to sustained virologic response increased significantly.
Researchers create map of T cell responses to Chikungunya virus, shedding light on chronic disease triggers. They found that people with chronic disease have T cells targeting the same viral epitopes as those who cleared the virus.
Allowing avian flu to run rampant in US poultry would lead to unnecessary suffering and put other animals at risk. The authors suggest a more collaborative approach to reduce spillover risks and protect public and ecological health.
Researchers investigated the link between HIV treatment regimens and osteoarthritis development, revealing that certain medications like lopinavir can exacerbate OA in the knee. The study's findings have important implications for people living with HIV, highlighting the need to carefully consider treatment options.
Researchers studied merbecoviruses, closely related to MERS-CoV, and found one subgroup, HKU5, has concerning traits that could allow it to infect humans. The viruses use a host receptor known as ACE2, which is also used by SARS-CoV-2.
Researchers have identified a critical step in SARS-CoV-2 viral infection: the protective role of ORF3a, which forms dense bodies surrounding the spike protein to prevent it from being cut into smaller components. This finding could lead to new therapeutic targets and vaccine development strategies.
Researchers discovered microbial communities thriving in glacier habitats on the Tibetan Plateau, interacting with intra- and extra-glacial ecosystems. Human activities and pollution pose a threat to these microorganisms, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.
A new study has identified a way to target the viral enzyme uracil-DNA glycosylase (vUNG) that helps HSV-1 evade the immune system, allowing reactivation of APOBEC1 and improving survival in infected mice. This approach offers a promising therapeutic strategy for treating HSV-1 encephalitis by strengthening brain immunity.
A new study finds that bats are a reservoir for morbilliviruses, including the human measles virus, and can transmit them to other mammalian species, such as monkeys. The research suggests that these viruses have crossed species boundaries multiple times, posing a significant threat to human health and livestock.
Researchers have uncovered a key reason why HIV remains difficult to cure, revealing that subtle variations in the Rev-RRE axis influence viral replication and latency reactivation. Understanding this regulatory system could help develop strategies to flush out the dormant virus and eliminate it for good.