Articles tagged with Virology
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers have unveiled the mechanism behind monkeypox virus genome replication using cryo-microscopy. The findings could guide the development of antiviral drugs and may aid in preventing future outbreaks.
Researchers found that lncRNA MVIH is overexpressed in cervical cancer tumors and associated with younger age, lymph node metastasis, tumor invasion depth, and squamous cell type. This suggests its potential as a diagnostic biomarker for cervical cancer.
Researchers develop a new method to track disease-carrying mosquitoes by ingesting harmless DNA particles, providing unique fingerprints of information. This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize mosquito-borne disease surveillance and tracking, offering insights into mosquito movement and hotspots.
A study found that individuals with blood group Rh(D) have a higher risk of contracting parvovirus, which causes fifth disease. The study screened over 160,000 blood donors in Germany and found all infected persons belonged to the Rh(D) blood group.
A new multivalent mRNA vaccine candidate has shown promising results in mice and ferrets, producing high levels of cross-reactive antibodies and offering protection against various influenza strains. The approach differs from previous universal flu vaccines by including antigens specific to each subtype.
Three circulating omicron subvariants have shown improved resistance to vaccine- and infection-generated neutralizing antibodies. BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 are dominating US infections, while BA.2.75.2 is the best at evading neutralizing antibodies.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have developed a new therapy for Lassa fever using a trio of rare human antibodies that can block viral infection. The therapy, called Arevirumab-3, was tested in non-human primates and proved 100% effective in treating the disease.
Recent advancements in pig-to-human transplants have demonstrated potential as a solution to the dire transplant organ shortage, with over 100,000 people awaiting transplants. Further research is needed to address challenges such as navigating ethical concerns and reducing organ rejection, but trials should continue in humans.
The Independent Task Force Report emphasizes the need for a One Health approach to prevent or respond adequately to the next pandemic. Key findings highlight the importance of 'Smart Surveillance' to identify high-threat pathogens and invest in R&D for innovative diagnostics, antiviral strategies, and therapeutic research.
Researchers developed a highly effective and safe Zika vaccine technology that prevents systemic infection in pregnant mice and stimulates an immunogenic reaction. The vaccine was tested in various mouse models, proving safe and protective against the virus.
Researchers at the University of Maryland Baltimore County have discovered that some viruses can sense their environment and
Researchers at Cleveland Clinic's FRIC found that cytoskeleton disruption is a key signal for the body to respond to viruses. This discovery has potential implications for developing new anti-viral vaccines and treatments.
Researchers developed an AI method to predict how well new COVID-19 variants infect human cells and evade antibodies. The system can analyze a million mutated variants, enabling the development of next-generation antibody therapies and vaccines that provide broader protection against potential future variants.
A US study found that health facilities in metropolitan areas with a high proportion of Black citizens were less likely to administer COVID-19 vaccines, indicating potential vaccine access barriers. The study suggests disparities in vaccine distribution across the country.
Scientists uncover ancient herpes DNA, revealing the virus's prehistoric origins around 5,000 years ago. The discovery suggests a link between the emergence of facial herpes and cultural practices like romantic and sexual kissing in Europe during the Bronze Age.
Researchers used virus-like particles to identify mutations in Omicron that make it more infectious and escape antibodies. The study found that mutations in the nucleocapsid protein are crucial for enhancing spread, highlighting potential new vaccine targets.
Researchers at the Institut Pasteur and CNRS studied SARS-CoV-2 replication in bat cells, finding that viral infection triggers a powerful immune response that prevents the virus from replicating. The study uses real-time imaging techniques to visualize the speed of cell infection and the formation of syncytia.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University identified four proteins in saliva that bind to and inhibit SARS-CoV-2 entry, including neutrophil elastase and histone H2A. These findings may lead to the development of methods to prevent or treat COVID-19 infection.
New research found that coinfection with influenza A virus can significantly suppress SARS-CoV-2 replication in the lung. This effect can persist even after clearance of influenza A virus, suggesting potential factors that restrict SARS-CoV-2 growth.
Researchers report that apratoxin S4, an anticancer drug candidate, can interfere with viral replication in human cells. The compound was effective against multiple viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, and Zika virus. Further studies are needed to confirm its potential as a broadly acting antiviral.
A UC San Diego study suggests COVID-19 rebound symptoms after taking Paxlovid are likely caused by insufficient drug exposure, not resistance or impaired immunity. The study found the virus remained sensitive to the drug and no relevant mutations were detected.
Researchers discovered that nano-sized electrostatic atomized water particles damage SARS-CoV-2 viral envelope, protein, and RNA, reducing its infectivity. The particles' reactive oxygen species (ROS) are responsible for this damage, posing a promising alternative disinfection method.
A new study published in mSystems demonstrates that a surface sampling method can detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA on surfaces, improving environmental surveillance in public health labs.
A new analysis reveals that marine RNA viruses predominantly infect protist and fungal hosts, including plankton, and sort into four distinct ecological zones. The study found that RNA viruses have a large influence on the ocean ecosystem, affecting processes like photosynthesis and ocean carbon flux.
A new coronavirus has been identified in Swedish bank voles, with the virus found in 3.4% of voles between 2015 and 2017. Researchers from Uppsala University discovered the 'Grimsö Virus' in red-backed voles caught around Grimsö in Örebro County.
Researchers at Hiroshima University have discovered a new non-radioactive compound that can be used to stain and image viruses in clear detail using TEM. The Preyssler-type phosphotungstate molecule is a good alternative to radioactive uranyl acetate, providing easy-to-use and stable results.
A new study analyzing 8 cohorts of COVID-19 patients found that antibody responses in previously infected individuals were relatively stable, providing protection from reinfection unless the new infection was the Omicron variant. Vaccination also boosted protection, with rapid immune responses observed even after a single vaccine dose.
Researchers found that a single mRNA vaccine booster shot can provide the same level of protection as three doses, making it a promising investment for resource-poor countries. The study suggests that this strategy could benefit billions of people worldwide and help combat emerging COVID-19 variants.
Research found that SARS-CoV-2 relies on human transmembrane proteins, especially IFITM2, to replicate efficiently and produce infectious viruses. Antibodies targeting IFITM2 can protect lung cells from infection, suggesting a promising therapeutic approach by targeting host factors instead of viral ones.
A global survey of ocean RNA sequences has identified thousands of previously unknown RNA viruses, doubling the number of orthornavirans. The study reveals new insights into the evolution of RNA viruses, including a 'missing link' in retroelement evolution.
A recent Cornell University study reveals that white-tailed deer can shed and transmit the COVID-19 virus for up to five days following infection. The virus replicates in the deer's respiratory tract, lymphoid tissues, and central nervous system, making them a potential reservoir for the virus in nature.
A study found that double vaccinated individuals generate a potent and broad neutralizing antibody response after a delta breakthrough infection. This response provides protection against current variants of concern, including omicron.
Researchers examined Kappa and Delta variant structures using cryo-EM, finding Delta's spike protein binds stronger with human ACE2 receptor. This explains the rapid global dominance of the Delta variant. The study provides insight into COVID-19 variants' evolution.
The authors argue that lethal mutagenesis, which introduces errors into viral genetic code, could be an important antiviral strategy. However, its long-term effects on human health are unclear and require further study.
Researchers detect four cryptic variants of SARS-CoV-2 in NYC wastewater samples, suggesting possible animal origins. The variants' mutations could help identify the next variant of concern for COVID-19.
A new smartphone app and lab kit can rapidly detect COVID-19 and flu viruses, providing a platform for inexpensive home-based testing. The system uses a smartphone's camera to measure a chemical reaction, achieving accurate diagnosis in 25 minutes at a fraction of the cost of current diagnostic methods.
Researchers have identified two new compounds that can inhibit the replication of human herpesviruses by targeting specific enzymes. This breakthrough offers new opportunities for developing agents against herpesviruses, which are currently difficult to treat effectively.
Acute COVID-19 infection can lead to various neurological symptoms, including confusion, stroke, and depression, which persist months after infection. The authors propose possible mechanisms, such as vascular and immune dysfunction, that may give rise to these symptoms and trigger future neurodegenerative diseases.
A new study found that a third dose of the BNT162b2 vaccine increases protection against the Omicron variant by 23-fold. The data suggest that a third dose augments antibody-based immunity against Omicron.
Northwestern University scientists have identified a key mechanism used by the Zika virus to evade the antiviral response of host cells. The study reveals how the virus suppresses interferon signaling to gain access to cells, providing a new target for antiviral therapeutics.
The use of self-spreading viruses in wildlife management and vaccine development poses significant risks due to their unpredictable nature. International institutions must be leveraged to address concerns and promote responsible research practices.
Researchers at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry found that oral bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis can suppress the production and effectiveness of proteins that protect humans from viral infection. This suppression increases vulnerability to infection, allowing viruses to enter the body more easily.
A new study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 limits viral particle release and instead spreads through cell-to-cell transmission, enabling efficient infection without the need for antibodies. This stealthy transmission method makes it challenging for the host immune system to target and neutralize the virus.
Researchers at NIST developed new standards and calibrations for optical microscopes, enabling accurate measurement of microdroplet volumes smaller than 100 trillionths of a liter. They combined microscopy with gravimetry to verify results, linking their findings to fundamental constants of nature.
Scientists at Gladstone Institutes developed a new class of antiviral therapy that can track the evolution of SARS-CoV-2, reducing the chance of reduced efficacy against new variants. The single-dose intranasal treatment showed significant reduction in viral load and prevented disease in animals.
Researchers report that combining infection and vaccination produces high-quality antibodies effective against COVID-19 variants. The study found that prior-infected individuals who received a vaccine had potent antibodies against new variants, contrary to previous findings suggesting reduced potency.
A study from the University of São Paulo found that people infected with Chikungunya may develop partial immunity to Mayaro virus. The researchers observed a significant reduction in disease severity and viral load, suggesting cross-protection through neutralizing antibodies and immune memory.
A new study suggests that social distancing alone is ineffective in mitigating COVID-19 spread and recommends vaccination, ventilation, and masks as vital measures. The researchers found that individual coughs vary widely, leading to a 'safe' distance of anywhere between one to three or more meters.
Early symptomatic cases linked to Hunan Market, where live animals were sold, suggesting zoonotic spillover as likely source of COVID-19. The closure of the market and lack of virus screening from animals may hinder understanding of the origin.
Researchers found that geriatric cotton rats given ibuprofen cleared RSV more quickly than those without the drug. Ibuprofen improved immune response by lowering aging-related inflammation, suggesting a potential role for the drug in providing lasting immunity against RSV.
A new study shows that boosting nonhuman primates with the Moderna vaccine six months after their primary series increases neutralizing activity against viral variants of concern. The boost sustained antibody responses for at least eight weeks, suggesting significant B cell memory induced by primary vaccination.
Researchers found that vaccinating more people with a single dose can be beneficial when the vaccine waning rate is low, slowing the spread of the virus. The 'prime first' strategy prioritizes speed over double doses under supply constraints, offering an alternative to traditional vaccination protocols.
Infection with measles virus triggers the activation of both RNA and DNA virus immune responses. The virus affects mitochondrial growth and division, causing their fusion and release of mitochondrial DNA into the cytoplasm. This leads to the activation of the cGAS immune response, which is also triggered by DNA viruses.
Researchers found that a light breeze of about 5 mph extends effective social distancing by around 20% due to increased viral load persistence. Wearing masks outdoors reduces the chances of infection, with stronger winds increasing virus spread.
Researchers found that a specific gene, OAS1, plays a crucial role in activating SARS-CoV-2 cellular defenses, and its prenylated form is essential for antiviral activity. Patients with the non-prenylated form had more severe COVID-19 outcomes.
Researchers at Texas Biomedical Research Institute developed 'reporter viruses' that allow for real-time tracking of SARS-CoV-2 spread in cells and animal models. This enables faster screening of potential anti-viral drugs, vaccines, and neutralizing antibodies.
Researchers investigated aerosol production from singing and playing wind instruments to develop recommendations for minimizing COVID transmission. They found that placing a surgical mask reduced plume velocities and lengths, decreasing aerosol concentrations.
African countries faced limited initial virus spread from outside imports but emerged with deadly, high-transmission variants after intense domestic transmission. The true number of infections may be higher than reported, threatening global vaccine efficacy.
Researchers found that two drugs can suppress ACE2 protein production, reducing SARS-CoV-2 virus entry. Cigarette smoke extract and the drugs activate a receptor that inhibits ACE2 expression, making it harder for the virus to infect cells.
Researchers at University of Queensland discover koala retrovirus is transmitted from mother to joey through close proximity, highlighting a significant threat to wild koala populations. This finding may lead to re-thinked conservation plans and the use of antiretroviral treatment to prevent transmission.