Articles tagged with Viruses
A team of researchers has successfully sequenced and assembled the cane toad genome, providing a reference for understanding its interplay with ecosystems. The findings also identify three new viruses that could potentially be used as biocontrol agents, offering new hope in controlling the invasive species' population.
A viral protein, W protein, targets critical human cell function to suppress immune responses and promote fatal disease. The findings suggest potential strategies for developing therapies to block the interaction between the viral protein and host proteins.
Researchers at the Salk Institute and University of Florida used cryo-electron microscopy to image an AAV2 virus with improved resolution. The study reveals key changes in the viral portal that enable it to be less infectious, potentially informing gene therapy applications for various diseases.
Researchers analyzed brain responses of people reading real news headlines to forecast popularity among readers. Infrequent news readers were better able to predict article success, suggesting they responded more broadly to content value. The study's findings could inform Army initiatives on communication and messaging.
Researchers used fMRI data to analyze brain activity of infrequent and frequent news readers, finding that the former group was better at predicting article popularity. The study suggests that people who don't normally read the news are more representative of general population trends.
Scientists developed a model to accurately predict the transmission dynamics of various viruses, enabling optimized vaccination programs. The analysis analyzed over 100 enterovirus serotypes and demonstrated patterns in their transmission cycles.
A plant virus manipulates aphid species to its advantage by increasing the nutrients in host plants, making it easier for aphids to feed. This allows late-arriving aphids to outcompete early arriving ones, leading to boosted reproductive success and increased spread of the virus.
Researchers found that people with the rare disease have genetic mutations in CIB1, EVER1, or EVER2, which compromises their immune response to ß-HPVs. The study revealed that ß-HPVs can replicate and cause skin lesions and cancer when this defense mechanism is disrupted.
A new understanding of thawing permafrost in Sweden could improve predictions and guide efforts to slow climate damage. Scientists have identified more than 1,500 microbial genomes and 1,900 new viral populations, shedding light on the role of microbes in methane production.
Two biological control agents, myxoma and rabbit haemorrhagic disease viruses, have been found to work together to control feral rabbit populations in Australia. The study used data from the largest wild rabbit study in the world to show that both viruses are effective when acting together.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital developed a rapid, deployable, low-cost diagnostic test for Zika using mobile health technologies, targeting resource-limited settings and home testing for couples trying to conceive
Researchers have discovered the secret to the RSAD2 gene's success: an enzyme that generates a compound called ddhCTP, which sabotages viral replication by disrupting CTP conversion. This finding could form the basis for potent new antiviral drugs with a favorable safety profile.
A team of researchers has identified 27 new viruses in bees from around the world, shedding light on the impact of viral pathogens on bee health and agriculture. The discovery was made using a novel high-throughput sequencing technique that efficiently detected both known and unknown viruses.
Researchers found that cells use septins to form cage-like structures around viral particles, inhibiting their release and preventing the virus from spreading. The study provides new insights into the cellular mechanisms that control viral infections.
Researchers have discovered that giant viruses, known as pandoraviruses, can invent new genes through spontaneous mutations in intergenic regions. This suggests that these viruses may be
A new technology improves on retrograde viral tracing, enabling neuroscientists to study the connectivity of specific neurons and their functions. The 'receptor complementation' strategy eliminates tropism, a common problem in retrograde tracing, allowing for more accurate results.
A recent study has identified certain types of bacteria and viruses that are readily ejected into the atmosphere when waves break, while others are less likely to be transported. This discovery sheds new light on the potential health risks associated with breathing in ocean microbes and other biological material.
Scientists have identified a molecular handle that chikungunya virus uses to get inside cells, which could lead to ways to prevent or treat disease caused by the virus. The researchers found that blocking this handle reduces chikungunya infection and signs of arthritis.
Researchers have developed a molecule that can block multiple strains of the common cold virus from hijacking human cells. The molecule targets N-myristoyltransferase, a protein in human cells, making emergence of resistant viruses highly unlikely.
Scientists have developed a statistical framework to predict chikungunya and Zika outbreaks based on dengue fever 'hot spots'. The analysis used eight years of data from Merida, Mexico, and showed that people living in these hot spots had twice the rate of infection as those outside.
A new virus has been discovered in the waters of Oahu, Hawaii, which infects common marine algae and contains the largest genome ever sequenced for a viral infection. The virus, named TetV-1, appears to have picked up genes from its host, allowing it to survive in low-oxygen conditions.
Researchers verify anomalous amplitude apodization for non-spherical particles, boosting microscope magnifying power and peak field intensity. This technique enhances imaging capabilities for biological molecules, viruses, and living cells.
Researchers analyzed the survivability of RNA-containing viruses, discovering that inaccurate genetic copying helps them adapt to adverse conditions. The study found that viruses can repair damaged elements or evolve new properties to compensate for damage, ensuring their survival and persistence.
Research reveals that HIV-1 viruses transmitted from mother to child during delivery are more resistant to maternal antibodies than non-transmitted variants. A new vaccine aims to boost maternal antibody attack, reducing transmission risk during delivery.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System used a homemade microscope to reveal the structure of a cancer-causing virus's 'tether' that anchors it to our DNA. This discovery could lead to cures for viral infections like HPV and Epstein-Barr by disrupting the tether.
A study of NYC house mice reveals they carry disease-causing pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria like C. difficile and Salmonella, which can be transmitted to humans. The study also finds evidence of viruses present in mouse droppings, some of which may infect other animals.
Researchers found that IgA1 antibodies can protect against flu viruses through two mechanisms: acquired immunity and innate immunity via sialic acids. This discovery could lead to more effective flu vaccines and treatments.
The World Mosquito Program launches a self-sustaining program in La Paz, Mexico, using Wolbachia mosquitoes to provide long-lasting protection against dengue, Zika, and chikungunya viruses. The initiative aims to strengthen community resilience against emerging health threats.
A study published in Nature Microbiology reveals how reovirus hijacks the host cell's TRiC protein to assemble new viruses, shedding light on a poorly understood process. This discovery could lead to new therapeutics and contribute to understanding protein-misfolding diseases like Alzheimer's and Huntington's.
Researchers at MSU have discovered a new way viruses assemble themselves and eject DNA into host cells, with potential applications in medicine and biotechnology. The study focused on the Acidianus tailed spindle virus, which can change shape to interact with its host cells.
Researchers found that viruses use epigenetic regulation to mute the immune system, causing cancer cells to proliferate. By demethylating specific gene promoter regions, it may be possible to revive an immune system muted by cancer-causing viruses and increase the effectiveness of immune-based therapies.
A recent study reveals that almost one billion viruses and more than twenty million bacteria are deposited daily in high-mountain areas via atmospheric rain washout and gravity sedimentation. The research finds that viruses tend to adhere to smaller organic particles, while bacteria stick to mineral particles from the Sahara Desert.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center discovered that four viruses can produce insulin-like hormones that bind to human insulin receptors and stimulate cellular signaling. This finding opens up a new field of study in microbial endocrinology, potentially revealing biological mechanisms behind diabetes, autoimmune disease, and cancer.
A team of researchers has mapped the biochemical networks of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, identifying key pathways that facilitate virus replication. The study's findings have significant implications for controlling mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.
A University of Iowa biologist discovered a virus family whose set of genes is similar to that of eukaryotes, helping clarify the evolution of eukaryotes after branching from prokaryotes. Giant viruses like Marseilleviridae may have been the source of these genes.
Researchers quantify viruses swept up into free troposphere, carried thousands of km before being deposited back onto Earth. The majority of viruses were found to have originated from sea spray, indicating long-range transport through the atmosphere.
Researchers at McGill University discovered a molecular mechanism that allows viruses to evade the immune system by modifying glycoproteins on CD8+ T cells. This pathway can be targeted to restore immune function and control chronic viral infections.
A new family of viruses, Autolykiviridae, has been discovered that kill more marine bacteria than previously known tailed viruses. These viruses may also be present in the human gut and could play a role in maintaining the ocean's ecology and influencing human health.
Researchers at Morgridge Institute for Research discovered a crucial enzyme called ERO1 that promotes cytoplasmic viral replication by bridging membrane barriers. This finding opens up a new target for broad-spectrum antivirals targeting positive-strand RNA viruses.
Karen Cheng, a third-year medical student at Boston University School of Medicine, has created an automated device that kills mosquito larvae in rooftop water tanks, reducing the spread of Zika and other viruses. The invention was recognized with a $3,500 award from the Clinton Global Initiative University Conference Innovation Fund.
Researchers at University of Utah Health have found a way for cells to destroy viruses without harming themselves. The study reveals how the protein Dicer, which is part of normal cell function, uses a different mechanism to process viral dsRNA.
New research reveals that viruses can transfer genes to organisms from different superkingdoms, including bacteria and complex organisms like plants and animals. This discovery suggests that viruses may have originated from primitive cells and could be a source of new genes for cellular organisms.
Scientists have developed the first synthetic protein assemblies that encapsulate their own genetic materials and evolve new traits in complex environments. These assemblies are computationally designed and can package RNA with improved efficiency, resist degradation, and increase circulation time in living mice.
A human common cold virus known as rhinovirus C was found to be killing healthy chimps in Uganda's Kibale National Park, with five chimps dying from the outbreak. The virus is notably more severe than its relatives and affects young children most severely.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine have discovered a new antiviral drug, NGI-1, that blocks the replication of multiple mosquito-borne flaviviruses, including Zika, dengue, and yellow fever. The drug targets the host's oligosaccharyltransferase complex, reducing the need for high concentrations and minimizing harm to human cells.
Researchers found hundreds of protein folds present across all superkingdoms of life and in various viruses, suggesting an ancient origin. The study also revealed exclusive gene transfers between specific groups of viruses and their hosts, pointing to unknown mechanisms for viral genetic material exchange.
Scientists have characterized the infection mechanism of Rift Valley fever virus by inserting an envelope protein into host cell membranes. The study also reveals a shared recognition pocket with other human pathogenic viruses, paving the way for new therapeutic agents.
Researchers have created artificial codes to regulate viral assembly, outperforming natural codes in efficiency. The new understanding of viral self-assembly codes could lead to breakthroughs in cancer therapy and immunization.
Scientists have identified a new player in viral infection, revealing how certain long noncoding RNAs can aid viruses in hijacking host cells. The discovery highlights the importance of understanding host-virus interactions to develop effective antiviral strategies.
Researchers uncover 25 novel virophage sequences, doubling the known number of these tiny viral parasites. This discovery sheds light on their ecological role and importance in shaping lake ecosystems.
A team of scientists believes they've identified Paranthropus boisei as the species that likely contracted HSV2 and transmitted it to human ancestors, including Homo erectus. The study suggests the virus jumped from ancestral chimpanzees via an intermediate hominin species.
A newly-developed dipstick test sensitively identified Zika virus and all four dengue virus subtypes with no cross-reactivity. The test detected viral proteins at lower concentrations, making it a potential tool for diagnosing emerging pathogens.
Researchers from Aalto University Finland have developed a method to assemble metal-protein superlattice wires using viruses and nanoparticles. The study demonstrates that combining native Tobacco Mosaic Virus with gold nanoparticles can lead to high-aspect-ratio superlattice wires with controlled optical properties.
Researchers at KU Leuven discovered that humans no longer have the Argonaute proteins that help insects and plants fight viruses. This loss explains why RNAi is less effective in humans than in insects.
Researchers at University of Southampton discover natural killer cells can recognize global pathogens through a single receptor, paving the way for a new type of vaccine. The study identifies a non-variable part of the virus called the NS3 helicase protein as a key target for the immune system.
A Melbourne research team has identified a protein called SIDT2 as critical for cells to detect viral components and initiate an immune response. This discovery has important implications for delivering new therapeutics based on dsRNA.
A recent survey of DNA fragments in human blood suggests that the majority of microbes inside us have never been seen before. The study, led by Stanford University researchers, found that nearly all non-human DNA fragments failed to match existing genetic databases, revealing a vast and diverse microbiome.
Researchers found plasmids, small DNA molecules that replicate independently, in Antarctic haloarchaea microbes. These plasmids can masquerade as viruses and infect other cells, potentially evolving into protective coats for successful virus invasion.
Researchers found that avian flu viruses isolated from humans have the same gene sequences as those from birds, suggesting transmission through the mineral layer. The mineralized shell changes the electric surface potential of the virus, allowing it to adsorb efficiently onto host cells.
Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine discovered that certain viruses evade the innate immune system by spreading to blood and being fought off in organs like the liver and spleen. This finding could lead to better treatments for viral infections like Zika, dengue, and measles.