Articles tagged with Viruses
A recent study by Université Laval found that 40% of commercial disinfectants are ineffective in eliminating noroviruses, which cause over half of all foodborne gastroenteritis outbreaks. Bleach-based products are the only ones to drastically reduce virus concentration.
Researchers used population genetics approaches to identify gene variants that increase or decrease susceptibility to viral infections, finding 139 human genes with this effect. The study suggests these variants could be targeted for novel therapeutic approaches and vaccines.
Researchers identified specific mutations that enable a common plant virus to infect new species, shedding light on the viral-host interface. The study's findings could inform strategies for breeding resistant crops and understanding animal disease emergence.
A new study by Imperial College London discovered a virus called vaccinia spreading four times more quickly than previously believed. The virus uses a novel mechanism to spread rapidly between cells, making it harder to target with antiviral drugs.
A novel and simple formula predicts treatment success for patients with chronic hepatitis C, outperforming viral kinetics. The formula, based on clinical data, is suitable for every cohort of patients and can help tailor treatment.
Researchers discovered how smallpox kills by targeting molecules that block viral replication, paving the way for new therapeutics. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms causing disease in other viral infections, offering hope for prevention and treatment of pox viruses.
Researchers at Montana State University aim to understand how Adeno-associated Viruses (AAV) assemble and enter cells. They will use this knowledge to build specialized AAVs for targeted gene therapy applications.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a way to protect against rootkits by hijacking hooks in operating systems. By moving hooks to a centralized location, they can be protected using hardware-based memory protection, making it harder for malware to subvert them.
A breakthrough in the fight against Hendra virus has been achieved with the development of a treatment that shows great potential to save lives. The treatment, administered after exposure to Nipah virus, protected animals from disease in a model.
Researchers at USU and Australian Animal Health Laboratory demonstrate effective therapy against Nipah virus using a human monoclonal antibody, m102.4. The treatment showed promising results in animal models, offering hope for preventing and treating diseases caused by the deadly viruses.
Researchers found promising results for rapid viral diagnosis tests, reducing use of antibiotics and other blood tests in children with respiratory symptoms. Larger trials are needed to confirm the finding and evaluate cost-effectiveness.
A laboratory study by University of Maryland researchers suggests the H1N1 pandemic variety prevails and out-compets other flu strains in a lab setting, reproducing twice as much on average. The findings support vaccinating against the pandemic flu virus this season due to its high communicability.
Researchers created a new gene therapy vector that uses the same machinery as viruses to deliver therapeutic genes into cells' nuclei. This breakthrough improves efficiency and specificity of human gene therapy, paving the way for clinical applications.
Researchers uncover how certain types of viral RNA pairs trigger an enzyme called protein kinase R (PKR) to inhibit viral production. PKR recognizes double-stranded RNAs and stops protein synthesis in infected cells, ultimately causing cell death.
Montana State University researchers study Sulfolobus turreted icosahedral virus (STIV) and its effects on host cells. The virus forms pyramid-like projections on the surface of infected cells, releasing progeny in a previously unknown manner.
A Michigan State University researcher is studying the ancient evolutionary dynamic between marine bacteria and fast-mutating viruses. The project aims to understand how cyanobacteria evolve resistance to viruses and its implications for environmental and climate studies.
A new type of optical particle trap has been developed by UCSC researchers to manipulate particles on a chip. This innovation enables the rapid detection and sorting of bacteria and viruses, with potential applications in hospitals and research labs.
Researchers found that Sulfolobus islandicus populations are more diverse than thought, with variable genomes evolving rapidly and adapting to local environments. The findings suggest a limited genetic reservoir stored in viruses and other elements, contradicting the idea of a universal gene pool.
A population genetics study found that parasite-driven selection has left a footprint on human DNA, particularly in immune genes. This variation correlates with parasite diversity and may contribute to the development of inflammatory bowel diseases.
Researchers at Cancer Research UK have developed a way to regulate viral activity in cancer cells while minimizing its impact on healthy tissues. By introducing microRNA molecules, they can 'turn off' the virus in vulnerable areas, making it a promising approach for improved cancer treatments and vaccines.
Researchers analyzed calling and mobility data from over six million mobile phone users to understand the threat of mobile phone viruses. A highly fragmented market share has hindered outbreaks so far, but predicting that viruses will become a significant threat once a single operating system's market share grows sufficiently large.
Researchers create first 3D model of dengue virus replication, providing insight into the process and offering new approaches for developing measures to prevent or treat dengue fever. The study provides crucial information for developing therapy against this infectious disease.
Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley and Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a comprehensive numerical study of gene therapy. The research sheds light on the key factors that determine the success of dendrimers as gene delivery vehicles, including the charges of the dendrimers and their target cell membranes.
Researchers are racing against time to find ways to combat the wheat curl mite, a nemesis of the region's wheat crop. The mites are vectored by three viruses: wheat streak mosaic virus, wheat mosaic virus, and Triticum mosaic virus, with Texas being the hot spot for all three.
Rising temperatures and mild winters have led to increased outbreaks of bluetongue and other insect-transmitted viruses in European livestock, with devastating consequences for ruminants. The UK successfully suppressed a major outbreak in 2008, but new virus types pose ongoing threats to the region.
A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens has revealed that a majority of the global population has been infected with three recently discovered human polyomaviruses, including KIV, WU, and MCV. The study, which tested over 2,200 anonymous donor blood samples, found that infection with these viruses occurs early in childhood.
Trinity College Dublin scientists have developed a more efficient system for detecting viruses, which uses micro-sized cantilevers to directly detect viruses binding to membrane proteins. This technology has the potential to enable portable diagnostic devices and specific blood tests.
Researchers found that local climate moderates the relationship between temperature, precipitation and dengue incidence. Climate patterns affect mosquito reproduction and virus development.
Researchers sequence genomes of 99 known cold virus strains, exposing vulnerabilities that could lead to effective remedies. The study's findings also shed light on the genetic composition of rhinovirus A and B, as well as emerging species C, which is more virulent.
The study provides a powerful tool for developing effective treatments against the common cold by sequencing the genetic codes of human rhinoviruses. The researchers found that the viruses are organized into about 15 small groups and can mutate rapidly, making a 'one drug fits all' approach ineffective.
Researchers at Scripps Institute successfully capture the crystal structure of an intermediate viral particle, revealing a dynamic process of protein coat assembly. The study provides fresh insights into viral protein interactions and suggests potential targets for interrupting virus assembly.
A rapidly evolving gene contributes to the origin of new species by driving an evolutionary arms race inside cells. The Nup160 and Nup96 genes, which code for gatekeepers of a cell's nucleus, have become incompatible between closely related fruit fly species.
Scientists have discovered a new mechanism by which the human immune system adapts to infections, involving 'cluster mutations' in antibody genes. This discovery fills a significant gap in our understanding of how we survive microbial invasions and may lead to new ways to prevent illnesses or make them less dangerous.
Biologists have discovered the atomic structure of a powerful molecular motor that packages DNA into viral heads during assembly. The motor consists of two ring-like structures with five segments, progressively drawing genetic material into the virus's capsid.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered how mosquitoes control the pathogenicity of viruses, using short-interfering RNAs to modulate disease. By altering the virus genome, the team found a way to upset the balance, potentially targeting mosquito-borne diseases.
A University of Delaware-led research team is conducting a deep-sea expedition to study hydrothermal vents on the Pacific ocean floor. The team, including experts on marine viruses and protists, aims to explore the ecosystems surrounding these underwater oases of life.
Researchers have identified a stable, modifiable virus capable of withstanding harsh conditions and can be used as a nanobuilding block. The virus particles are ideal for producing materials on the nanometre scale and can be modified spatially controlled.
Four patients with pre-exposed lamivudine resistance experienced rapid re-emergence of YMDD mutations and significant viral rebound after lamivudine re-treatment. Sequential administration of lamivudine is discouraged in these cases.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered a way to make cancer vulnerable to viruses using a new compound called histone deacetylase inhibitors. This approach has the potential to overcome resistance and increase the effectiveness of viral 'magic bullets' in targeting cancer cells.
Researchers developed a method to preserve and visualize SARS-coronavirus replication complexes, revealing the dependence on modified host membranes for viral replication. The study provides insights into the interplay between viral proteins and host membranes, opening doors for new antiviral strategies.
Dr. Joseph DeRisi receives the Heinz Award for his pioneering work in viral detection platforms, including the ViroChip that detects new viruses and characterizes malaria parasites' life cycles. His open access approach to science enables free sharing of research and software.
The EPA has awarded $3.6 million in research grants to develop innovative technologies for detecting known and emerging drinking water contaminants, including blue-green algae toxins and noroviruses. These new projects will improve the toolkit available to protect America's drinking water and public health.
A recent study identified a bluetongue virus strain that originated in sub-Saharan Africa, rather than Europe. The discovery was made through multi-centre sequence analysis of the full genome of the virus strain and its comparison to other BTV strains.
Duke University scientists discovered how the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1) hides during its inactive phase, using molecular understanding to provide a framework for studying latent viruses. The findings also offer hope for a potential cure by activating and killing the dormant virus with a new drug.
Scientists have found that Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) does not replicate in Varroa mites, highlighting the need for further investigation into its transmission. Research suggests that the virus is transmitted to bees when the mite bites and picks up infected bees' saliva or gut contents.
Researchers at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences have been awarded a $5.6 million grant to develop vaccines and treatments for Nipah and Hendra viruses. The grant will support collaboration with Australian researchers to test vaccines and therapeutics, which have shown promising results in previous studies.
Researchers found that the measles virus can replicate only in immune cells, causing disease in monkeys and potentially improving cancer therapy efficacy. The study's findings challenge traditional textbook assumptions about how the virus spreads, paving the way for more effective vaccines and treatments.
Researchers found that oncolytic viruses designed to kill cancer cells can stimulate the growth of new blood vessels to tumors, leading to regrowth and immune cell eradication. The study suggests a strategy to design combination therapies that inhibit this effect and enhance viral therapy efficacy.
Researchers have developed artificial viruses that can transport genes and drugs into cancer cells, eliminating immune responses and potential side effects. The viruses are self-assembled using a ribbon-like protein structure, allowing for precise control over their size and shape.
Researchers documented the arms race within viral and host genes, showing viruses shuffling DNA to evade RNA silencers. This study sheds light on constant warfare between viruses and microbes, with economic impacts on industries using microbe cultures.
A nested case-control study found that high HBV DNA levels are associated with an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients with higher viral loads have a heightened potential for developing liver cancer, suggesting a potential correlation between viral load and liver cancer development.
Researchers develop a technique to coat viruses with proteins, allowing for easier tracking and treatment of infectious diseases. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for cancer, cardiovascular, metabolic, and inherited disorders.
Researchers at ETH Zurich identify a unique invasion strategy used by the vaccinia virus, exploiting cellular waste disposal mechanisms and evading immune response. The discovery sheds light on a new mechanism of action for this virus, which could inform the development of new antiviral agents.
Cornell researchers have identified 63 proteins in male mosquitoes' seminal fluid that can suppress female appetite for mammalian blood and stimulate egg production. The study's findings could lead to novel strategies to prevent dengue virus spread, a disease affecting 50 million people annually.
Phytoplankton in major oceans produce half the world's oxygen through photosynthesis, while cyanobacteria are infected by viruses that provide genetic material for photosynthesis machinery. This symbiotic relationship highlights the essential role of viruses in planetary processes and global cooling.
Researchers at the Canadian Light Source synchrotron have determined the structure of the enzyme responsible for the Norwalk virus's genetic replication. This breakthrough could lead to the development of drugs that can effectively treat outbreaks of this highly contagious and untreatable bug.
A new study reveals that transfer RNA (tRNA) preserves the earliest events of evolutionary history in its structure. The researchers used detailed data to reconstruct the tRNA family tree and determine the order of emergence for viruses, archaea, bacteria, and eukarya.
The BioBlower technology has passed US Department of Defense tests and has been directed to retrofit military platforms with the system. The device destroys airborne pathogens by rapidly heating and compressing contaminated air, providing a more efficient and effective solution than conventional HEPA filters.
Biomedical engineer Robert Langer is working on novel ways to deliver drugs and genes to targeted sites in the human body. His lab has developed polymers that can efficiently deliver DNA with reduced toxicity, potentially leading to new cancer treatments and disease therapies.
Scientists at SLU and UAB have made a breakthrough in understanding how poxviruses replicate and wreak havoc on the immune system. Their findings could lead to the development of new drugs for inflammatory and immunological disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.