Viruses
Articles tagged with Viruses
Hidden viruses reshape one of Earth’s largest carbon systems, study finds
Immune system overreaction linked to deadly flu in pregnancy
The liver’s immune cells might be the key to curing hepatitis B
State-level differences in HPV vaccine uptake among 13- to 17-year-old adolescents
The study found substantial state-level variation in HPV vaccine uptake, with Northeastern states exhibiting higher rates and Southern states showing lower rates. Several sociodemographic factors were not significant predictors of vaccination rates, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve vaccine uptake.
LJI scientists take crucial step in developing world's first measles treatment
New kind of CRISPR could treat viral infection and cancer by shredding sick cells’ DNA
A new CRISPR protein, Cas12a2, has shown potential for killing sick cells while leaving healthy ones untouched. Researchers have tested its effectiveness in destroying cancer cells and virus-infected cells with promising results.
In mice, viruses gain virulence in some individuals, depending on genetics and sex
Research led by University of Utah biologists shows that host genetics and sex influence how influenza viruses evolve. Female mice from a specific strain exhibit accelerated virulence gains compared to male mice.
Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine team discovers gene pattern that could help doctors identify Ebola faster and more accurately
Researchers at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine have identified a unique gene pattern specific to Ebola, allowing doctors to distinguish it from other infections. This discovery has the potential to improve diagnostic tests and save lives in outbreak settings.
How AI can help us count the ‘good’ viruses used in biopharmaceuticals
Researchers developed an AI-powered methodology to identify and count target viruses more efficiently than previous techniques. The new approach uses electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and machine learning to separate signals from noise, enabling quick and accurate readings across a wide range of titers.
Scientists find a new way coronaviruses can get into human cells
Researchers identify a new coronavirus, CcCoV-KY43, that can enter human cells through the CEACAM6 receptor. The study used genetic sequences and synthesized spike proteins to screen for binding to human receptors, revealing the versatility of alphacoronaviruses in entering human cells.
Millions suffering needlessly with curable hepatitis C, new analysis reveals
A new analysis found that prescriptions for curable hepatitis C drugs have declined sharply in recent years, leaving millions without treatment. The researchers urge swift actions to deliver the drugs to those who need them, including increased screening and system-level changes.
Plastic texturing kills viruses when they land
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.
Novel research reveals the active role that skin cells play in rabies infection
Keratinocytes play a more active role in rabies infection than previously thought, supporting viral replication and transmitting the virus to neurons. This discovery provides new insights into the risk of infection from superficial scratches or minor bites.
We're taking a closer look at immune 'memory'
Researchers have found that COVID vaccines can train immune cells to remember the SARS-CoV-2 virus and protect against severe infection for years afterward. However, the continued spread of disease has scientists taking a closer look at how the immune system builds up immune memory over time.
Unraveling the complexities of the Borna disease virus 1
Researchers at Kyoto University have detailed the structure of Borna disease virus 1's nucleoprotein-RNA complex, revealing a distinct binding mode and incremental model of viral replication. The study provides a molecular framework for targeting viral RNA synthesis and assembly.
Study: Wildlife trade raises risk of disease spread to humans
A new study by University of Maryland researcher Meredith Gore and colleagues found that traded wild mammals are 1.5 times more likely to share infectious agents with humans than species not involved in trade. The risk is higher for animals traded illegally or sold live, which fuels the demand for exotic pets.
How microbes survive in the plastisphere
Researchers found that microorganisms in the plastisphere have more functional genes to survive under extreme ocean conditions. They can absorb nutrients effectively and utilize alternative energy sources like anoxygenic photosynthesis.
HIV infections would increase by 10% average if CDC funding for HIV testing ends, NIH-funded Johns Hopkins Medicine study predicts
A new NIH-funded study predicts that HIV infections could increase by an average of 10% in 18 US states if CDC funding for HIV testing ends. The simulation model examined HIV infections across different populations and found that the number of infections varies widely across states.
A fast method for measuring how well air disinfection works: See how it glows
Researchers at University of Michigan have developed a fast method to measure the effectiveness of plasma-based air disinfection, which can deactivate up to 99.9% of virus particles. The approach harnesses UV fluorescence to track changes in aerosol infectivity in real-time, providing essential information for public health guidelines.
Viruses ‘eavesdrop’ on each other – but it can backfire
Research reveals that viruses can eavesdrop on each other using chemical signals, which may not always benefit the listener. This 'cross-talk' between species can lead to incorrect decision-making by the eavesdropper.
Getting a glimpse of viral dances in the dark in the Sargasso Sea
A study of viral abundance in the Sargasso Sea reveals that viruses with cyclical changes in abundance are most active at night, infecting heterotrophic host microbes. This finding opens new questions about the ecological services provided by oceans and highlights the importance of including viruses in ocean models.
Studying bird flu in the air to protect people, agricultural operations in Michigan and beyond
A $2M USDA grant funds research on bird flu's infectivity in the air, with goals of preventing or mitigating future outbreaks. Nonthermal plasma technology has been shown to deactivate airborne virus particles.
Existing medication can restore HIV-affected immune cells
Researchers at Linköping University found that an existing medication can restore immune cell function in people with HIV. The study showed that the medication blocks type I interferon and restored the function of immune cells, potentially improving health outcomes.
University of Minnesota scientists reveal how deadly Marburg virus enters human cells, identify therapeutic vulnerability
Researchers discovered Marburg virus enters human cells up to 300 times more efficiently than Ebola, thanks to its unique entry protein. A nanobody has been identified to block its attachment to the receptor, providing a potential therapeutic strategy.
Scientists trace crop viruses back to the last Ice Age
A new international study reveals that the ancestors of modern crop viruses likely emerged before the last Ice Age, affecting both wild and cultivated plants. The viruses, spread by leaf-eating beetles, infect various crops and wild species, posing risks to agriculture and natural ecosystems.
Duke-NUS scientists identify more effective way to detect poultry viruses in live markets
Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School found that testing air and surfaces can detect a broader range of poultry viruses, including highly pathogenic avian influenza strains, which traditional surveillance may miss. Environmental sampling can provide a more comprehensive view of viral circulation in live poultry markets.
Newly discovered virus linked to colorectal cancer
Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark have identified a new virus in a common gut bacterium that appears more frequently in patients with colorectal cancer. The study demonstrates a statistical association between the virus and colorectal cancer, but its role is still unclear.
New review points to faster, safer vaccine development
A new review highlights the potential of viral mimic systems and virus-like particle technologies to accelerate vaccine development and improve global health equity. These innovative approaches enable local testing of vaccine candidates and antiviral therapies, strengthening regional preparedness for future outbreaks.
Debilitating virus can spread in cool weather, increasing health risk in Europe
A recent study found that chikungunya can spread in temperatures as low as 13 degrees Celsius, posing a greater health threat in Europe than previously thought. The Asian tiger mosquito is expanding northwards through the continent, and warming temperatures may lead to local outbreaks in the UK.
Batista Lab study reveals how local antibody feedback regulates B cell competition and promotes immune diversity
Researchers at Ragon Institute discovered that antibodies produced in germinal centers act as a 'brake' on selection, redirecting the immune system toward broader protection. Stronger-binding B cells suppress weaker ones targeting the same site, establishing a localized feedback loop.
Early TB treatment reduced deaths from sepsis among people with HIV
A new study found that tuberculosis is a major cause of deadly sepsis among people living with HIV, particularly in Africa. Early treatment of TB has been shown to significantly reduce sepsis deaths, with a 23% reduction in mortality rate.
How “invisible” vaccine scaffolding boosts HIV immune response
Researchers developed a DNA scaffold that ignores the immune system, eliminating off-target antibodies and promoting focused immune responses. The DNA-based vaccines led to 10 times more immune cells targeting vulnerable sites on HIV, outperforming protein-scaffolded vaccines.
UM School of Medicine launches clinical trial of investigative nasal spray medicine to prevent illnesses from respiratory viruses
A new experimental intranasal spray, INNA-051, will be tested in a randomized Phase 2 trial to determine its safety and effectiveness in reducing illness from respiratory viruses. The study aims to enroll 1,100 healthy adults at increased risk of upper respiratory virus infections.
How bacteria learned to target numerous cells types, revealed
Researchers identify thousands of rapidly evolving receptor-binding proteins, revealing how bacteria can be engineered to deliver proteins into specific human cells. The study provides insights into the evolutionary creativity of bacterial machines and their potential biomedical applications.
New platform could develop vaccines faster than ever before
The new platform developed by UVA Health scientists can produce vaccines much faster, cheaper, and more easily than traditional approaches. The platform's proof-of-concept demonstrates its ability to produce highly immunogenic vaccines that can be manufactured at extremely low cost.
Most would recommend RSV immunizations for older and pregnant people
The CDC recommends RSV vaccination for pregnant women to protect their newborns, while a monoclonal antibody injection is also available for high-risk infants. Most experts agree that RSV immunizations should be recommended for these groups due to the severity of the illness they can cause.
First extensive study into marsupial gut microbiomes reveals new microbial species and antimicrobial resistance
Researchers analyzed faecal samples from 82 captive and 16 wild marsupials, revealing new microbial species and antimicrobial resistance. The study found that host family, location, and diet contributed to variance between different microbiomes.
Vaccine against foot-and-mouth disease could deliver $1.3 billion a year in global livestock benefits
A new foot-and-mouth disease vaccine developed by Diamond Light Source is projected to deliver over $1.3 billion in annual benefits, transforming global livestock resilience. The vaccine's unique features, including heat stability and scalability, make it a game-changer for farmers worldwide.
New mechanism links Epstein-Barr virus to MS
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.
New hypothesis links HPV E6 and SARS‑CoV‑2 spike proteins to reduced p53 activity
A new hypothesis article proposes that HPV E6 and SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins could cooperate in suppressing host defenses including tumor suppressor mechanisms involving p53. Laboratory studies suggest that combined viral pressures on tumor-suppressor pathways may contribute to cancer progression.
Cat disease challenges what scientists thought about coronaviruses
Researchers have discovered that feline infectious peritonitis virus infects a broader range of immune cells, including B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes. The findings suggest that the virus can persist in these cells even after treatment, potentially leading to long-term immune problems.
The secret room a giant virus creates inside its host amoeba
Researchers discovered a subcellular environment within the giant virus Acanthamoeba polyphaga mimivirus that enables efficient translation of viral mRNAs despite mismatched codon usage with its host. This specialized environment alleviates the unfavorable translation condition, allowing for optimal viral replication.
Ushikuvirus: A newly discovered giant virus may offer clues to the origin of life
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.
Viruses on plastic pollution may quietly accelerate the spread of antibiotic resistance
New study reveals that viruses living on plastics can act as drivers of antibiotic resistance dissemination by transferring genetic material between bacteria. Environmental context is crucial in understanding the risks of plastic pollution on public health.
Bacteria resisting viral infection can still sink carbon to ocean floor
Researchers found that some phage-resistant mutations enhance bacteria's ability to sink carbon, while others slow down growth rates. The study suggests that the selection of surface mutants may play a key role in marine biological pump and carbon export.
Shifting pathways: Community and healthcare-associated transmission of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Europe
Researchers describe first reported mpox transmission of clade Ib in a healthcare setting outside Africa, with Ireland's nosocomial outbreak linked to local cases. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, community transmission shifted from sexual to non-sexual routes, driven by factors like overcrowding and child malnutrition.
Influenza A(H3N2) Subclade K Virus – Threat and Response
The Influenza A(H3N2) subclade K virus is a growing concern due to its antigenic variants and reduced vaccine effectiveness. Researchers emphasize the need for swift responses to protect public health.
Cytomegalovirus breakthrough could lead to new treatments
Researchers developed an engineered antibody that outsmarts cytomegalovirus by avoiding its immune evasion strategies and activating immune cells to attack infected cells. This breakthrough could lead to safer and more effective treatments for vulnerable populations.
Valacyclovir treatment of early symptomatic Alzheimer disease
Researchers found that valacyclovir, an antiviral medication, was ineffective in treating early symptomatic Alzheimer's disease and may even worsen cognitive function. The study suggests that individuals with early symptomatic Alzheimer's disease and herpes simplex virus seropositivity should not be treated with valacyclovir.
General intelligence framework to predict virus adaptation based on a genome language model
A new AI framework uses a pre-trained viral protein language model to predict the adaptation risk of unknown viruses. The framework, called GIVAL, achieves high accuracy and robustness even with incomplete data, providing critical support for early warning and proactive prevention and control of viral infectious diseases.
Canada’s reduced pledge to Global Fund will impact domestic health
A reduced pledge by Canada to the Global Fund could lead to decreased success in controlling tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS in the country. The authors of an editorial urge Canada's government to invest in improving social determinants of health and implement disease-specific suggestions to address these pressing global health issues.
Hidden viruses in wastewater treatment may shape public health risks, study finds
Researchers discovered complex viral communities in wastewater treatment plants, interacting with bacteria to influence treatment efficiency and health risks. The study found that viruses can act as reliable biological indicators of treatment performance, while also potentially promoting the spread of antibiotic resistance genes.
Unique bond identified as key to viral infection speed
Researchers at Penn State have identified a deliberate imbalance in the shape of viral shells that helps them infect their hosts. The 'loaded die' design creates a spring-loaded genome that positions genetic material precisely, allowing viruses to rapidly hijack host machinery and replicate.
Influenza clade K viruses prolong the influenza season in Australia and New Zealand
The emergence of A(H3N2) subclade K viruses in Australia and New Zealand extended their influenza seasons, with Australia experiencing a record-breaking season. The viruses were likely imported from the US and accounted for half of Australian viruses and over two-thirds of New Zealand viruses.
New circoviruses discovered in pilot whales and orcas from the North Atlantic
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.
Study: Adults face lasting effects months after RSV hospitalization
A new study found that adults hospitalized with RSV often struggle with breathlessness, reduced ability to perform everyday activities, and lower quality of life six to 12 months after their hospitalization. The study also showed that younger adults can experience serious RSV infections requiring hospitalization, similar to older adults.
Houston Methodist partners with CEPI and international scientific institutions to advance first AI-designed mRNA vaccine against deadly Tick-borne disease
Researchers are developing a first-of-its-kind mRNA vaccine against severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), a tick-borne viral disease. The vaccine is being designed using cutting-edge AI and computational techniques, aiming to accelerate response to future epidemics and pandemics.
New method to accelerate vaccine and drug development for norovirus
Researchers have created a simple and efficient system to understand norovirus gene functions, enabling the development of antivirals and vaccines. The new method involves injecting norovirus cDNA clones into zebrafish embryos to generate infectious human noroviruses.
Cardiovascular events 1 year after RSV infection in adults
A cohort study of adults aged 45 or older with RSV infection found a significant excess risk of cardiovascular events over 1 year, comparable in magnitude to influenza infection. This highlights the importance of RSV as a potential risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and underscores the need for vaccination to mitigate this burden.