Researchers discovered that BKPyV's large tumor antigen is expressed after the first round of cellular DNA replication, suggesting new drug targets to prevent kidney transplant failure. The study offers a possible solution by targeting host proteins required for re-replication, reducing the likelihood of virus resistance.
Dartmouth researchers propose a new way of thinking about masking and social distancing rules using game theory, considering them as two distinct actions. The study finds that people respond differently to these measures based on their perception of the disease's severity, trending towards masking or no protective action over time.
Researchers simulated viral outbreaks to evaluate dispersal metrics from genomic sequences, finding that certain measures are less impacted by sampling size. The study reveals the relationship between viral spread and host animal dispersal capacity, as well as human interference factors.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 3, 2024
Research reveals deep-sea viruses play a crucial role in facilitating energy cycling and mediating gene evolution in marine ecosystems. They can promote the release of carbon or nutrients into the ocean through infection, increasing survivability of hosts via horizontal gene transfer and lysogenic infection.
Researchers at ISTA and Columbia University developed a technique using adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) to track a frog's nervous system throughout its metamorphosis, shedding light on the neural circuit and behavior changes during this transition. The breakthrough can help usher amphibian neurobiology into a new era.
Researchers have developed an immortalized red river hog blood-derived macrophage cell line, RZJ/IBM, to advance African swine fever virus (ASFV) research. This new cell line shows reduced ASFV proliferation compared to existing porcine kidney macrophage cell lines.
Hepatitis E viruses can directly infect nerve cells, which are unable to protect themselves due to a low immune response. This discovery may explain the neurological effects of HEV infections.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have successfully captured viral infection process under a light microscope using the giant Mimivirus. The footage showcases the proliferation of the virus and its release from cells, highlighting its biological significance in ecosystems.
Scientists have developed an experimental vaccine that combines the benefits of both vaccine strategies, using a horsepox virus to confer safety in a single shot. The new vaccine is substantially more attenuated than the vaccinia virus used in existing vaccines, reducing the risk of side effects and triggering systemic infections.
The Association for Molecular Pathology has published a joint consensus report on SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance, outlining key considerations for next-generation sequencing methods. The report provides guidance on pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical aspects of NGS-based surveillance programs.
The winners of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2024 have been named, including the One Health Microbiome Center at Penn State and researchers Dr. François Thomas and Dr. Helen Onyeaka.
Researchers identified a protein in mammals that welcomes arteriviruses into host cells to start an infection. The team also found that an existing monoclonal antibody protects cells from viral infection, providing potential therapeutic strategy.
Researchers discovered a new type of jeilongvirus in a Florida mouse, which can infect humans and non-human primates, posing a risk of serious illness. The virus is genetically distinct from others and can cause disease in various species.
A three-decade study found polar bears exposed to increased pathogens due to environmental changes, with females at higher risk. The study, published in PLOS ONE, highlights the need for further disease screening in polar bear populations.
A group of McMaster researchers have discovered that phages can form into three-dimensional flower-like shapes, making them 100 times more efficient at finding bacterial targets. This breakthrough has significant implications for the detection and treatment of diseases, as it enables the creation of novel antimicrobial materials.
Scientists have identified over 23,000 genes known as auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) that viruses 'steal' from ocean microbes, affecting 37% of metabolic pathways. The research catalogues these genes, shedding light on the vital role of viruses in nutrient cycling and oxygen production.
Experts from The Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response urge leaders to take action against Mpox, a more dangerous virus now spreading across borders. The previous outbreak was neglected, highlighting the need for increased investment and cooperation to prevent further harm and global spread.
Researchers found Itaconate stimulates immune cells to produce anti-viral proteins called interferons by blocking an enzyme called SDH, offering a potential therapy for autoimmune and infectious diseases.
A new video series by UC Davis aims to educate building managers on removing pollutants from indoor spaces, linked to various health issues and even economic gains. The project's three R's approach focuses on removal, reduction, and mediation of air pollution sources.
Researchers evaluated the efficacy and safety of using Zika virus for treating CNS tumors, finding that it reduces cell viability, inhibits growth, and decreases Bcl2 expression, potentially enhancing chemotherapy and radiotherapy effects. This ultimately led to significant tumor remission and improved long-term survival through an enh...
A recent study using AI has discovered over 160,000 new RNA virus species, shedding light on the diversity of life on Earth. The machine learning tool, LucaProt, was able to organize and categorize genetic sequence data, revealing a previously unknown branch of life.
A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases reveals that Asian and Black individuals are less likely to be tested for hepatitis C, while American Indian/Alaska Native women are more likely to receive treatment. The findings highlight the need to prioritize equity in healthcare approaches to ensure timely diagnosis and effective t...
Researchers evaluated HIV reservoir in breast milk cells of two women living with HIV, detecting very low levels of cellular HIV DNA. The study's findings support revised recommendations on infant feeding by people with HIV in high resource settings.
Scientists at Houston Methodist will focus on developing efficacious vaccines and therapeutic antibodies for viruses in the Nairoviridae, Hantaviridae, and Paramyxoviridae families. The goal is to prepare for potential outbreaks and develop effective medical countermeasures in response to a next pandemic.
A new brain-mapping neurotechnology called Single Transcriptome Assisted Rabies Tracing (START) has been developed to map the brain's intricate neuronal connections. The technique combines two advanced technologies to resolve cortical connectivity at the resolution of transcriptomic cell types, enabling the identification of distinct p...
Researchers are working on a new method for preserving microbial samples using microfluidics, biomaterials, and protein engineering. The goal is to improve biosurveillance and protect soldiers and civilians from infectious diseases.
A modelling study suggests that slow waning of MMR vaccine-induced immunity may contribute to rising measles cases in double-vaccinated people. However, the MMR vaccine remains the most effective measure to prevent measles infection, and community vaccination levels above 95% are essential to prevent outbreaks.
Researchers at ISTA have decoded the structure of HTLV-1 using Cryo-Electron Tomography, revealing a distinct viral lattice that differs from other retroviruses. This discovery could pave the way for novel treatment approaches to combat HTLV-1 infections, which affect 5-10 million people worldwide.
Researchers analyzed over 6,400 tweets from young male Twitter users and found that posts using humor to stigmatize people or promote risky behaviors received more attention. The study's findings suggest that understanding how at-risk populations discuss HIV on social media can help design effective health campaigns to reach them.
A Nagoya University study suggests adopting testing-based protocols to minimize both premature and prolonged isolation for mpox patients. The approach characterizes viral shedding dynamics to optimize isolation strategies, potentially reducing patient isolation times by more than a week on average.
A new study reveals that two specific genes in the RNA interference pathway play a crucial role in preventing virus transmission from parent to progeny in plants. This discovery could lead to healthier crops and potentially reduce the transmission of diseases like Zika from mothers to human children.
The NIH has released an update on its priorities for mpox research, focusing on understanding the virus's transmission, vaccine development, and treatments. The agenda aims to improve detection and prevention strategies for the disease, which is most severe in people with compromised immune systems.
Researchers analyzed COVID-19 cases in US states, finding oscillating waves every six months that start near the southern border in July-August. The data suggests a larger pattern sweeping up and down North America, but further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these seasonal oscillations.
The Einstein-led PROVIDENT consortium will conduct four projects to develop countermeasures against a wide range of emerging viruses, with a focus on three virus families: nairoviruses, hantaviruses, and paramyxoviruses. The grant aims to quickly respond to emerging viruses with existing research and tools.
The study evaluated 7 guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of HEV infection, finding significant variability in quality and consistency. The guidelines scored poorly in areas such as stakeholder involvement, rigor of development, and applicability, highlighting the need for improvements.
Researchers at Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) propose using viral vectors to introduce specific genes into crops, improving their traits such as drought tolerance and nutritional value. The approach is considered more efficient and sustainable than traditional breeding methods.
A new study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology predicts high-risk towns across Europe for dengue fever outbreaks, with southern France and northern Italy being most affected. The research uses advanced high-resolution modeling to provide daily risk assessments for each area.
Scientists from Spirovant Sciences describe a novel adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy called SP-101 that has been optimized for efficient human airway cell transduction. After single dose inhaled delivery, the vector showed consistent expression of a functional and regulated shortened human CFTR minigene.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have identified the protein complex that enables the hepatitis C virus to infect cells. This discovery is a significant step towards developing a vaccine against the disease, which causes chronic inflammation and 300,000 deaths annually worldwide. The study's results, published in Nature maga...
Researchers have discovered a significant link between viruses and disease-causing nematodes, opening up new avenues for treatment. The study identified 91 RNA viruses in 28 species of parasitic nematodes, which may contribute to chronic debilitating conditions.
Researchers identified a genetic mutation that impairs virus replication in human cells, leading to asymptomatic infections. The same mutation enhances transmission in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, allowing the virus to spread without triggering an outbreak.
A new Swedish registry study found that girls with mental illness or neurodevelopmental conditions have lower HPV vaccination coverage compared to their peers. The study involved over 115,000 girls and found significant differences in vaccination rates among those with psychiatric diagnoses or receiving psychotropic medications.
A five-year study led by Tulane University is investigating a new medication to treat trichomoniasis. The research compares secnidazole with metronidazole, finding that one-dose treatment could offer better options for the infection, which affects 156 million people annually.
A new study has reconstructed virus DNA from glacial ice cores, revealing nearly 1,700 viral species with adaptations that influenced their hosts' survival in extreme conditions. The findings suggest a connection between viruses and climate change, shedding light on the impact of global temperature shifts.
The research aims to develop a new method for detecting foodborne viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A in time to prevent or quickly respond to an outbreak. The technology uses magnetic liquids to concentrate viruses from large food samples into smaller volumes, streamlining the detection process.
Researchers from POSTECH and KRICT created a 3D artificial lung using bioprinting technology, closely mimicking the human respiratory tract. This model allows for accurate testing of COVID-19 drugs and development of therapeutic treatments, potentially shortening the drug development process to under 5 years.
Researchers at Auburn University are developing a new instrument to characterize respiratory aerosols, which can transport viruses over longer distances. The technique uses fluorescence to analyze particles sensitive to pH, viscosity, and phase state.
A new drug has shown promise in clearing HIV from the brain by targeting infected cells and reducing viral load. The treatment, BLZ945, successfully cleared the virus from brain tissue, providing a potential new avenue for HIV treatment.
The study found that subtle shifts in the shape of viral spike proteins changed targetable host receptors, leading to the virus's decline as a human pathogen. Researchers also discovered that some strains could stick their spike proteins to multiple receptors, challenging previous assumptions about viral behavior.
Researchers at George Mason University's Center for Infectious Disease Research have made a breakthrough in finding a functional cure for HIV. Using an HIV-like virus particle called HIV Rev-dependent lentiviral vector, the team was able to reduce viral reservoirs and boost the immune system to produce antiviral neutralizing antibodies.
Researchers from Rice University discovered that viruses achieve precise timing in cell lysis by balancing the buildup and breakdown of holin proteins. This balance ensures optimal cell bursting, essential for viral replication, despite underlying randomness in biological processes.
Research reveals native plants and non-native crops attract pests that spread diseases, causing harm to both plant populations. The studies also found viruses transmitted from crops to wild plants, which can have devastating effects on native ecosystems.
Researchers have discovered how a neutralizing antibody blocks measles virus infection by arresting the fusion process. The study's findings may also be relevant to other viruses with pandemic potential, such as Nipah and parainfluenza viruses.
Researchers used single-cell sequencing technology to study immune responses in healthy adult volunteers exposed to SARS-CoV-2. They discovered unique immune responses associated with resisting sustained viral infection and disease, including activation of specialized mucosal immune cells and a reduction in inflammatory white blood cells.
Studies found that wood reduces viral infectivity on its surface, with pine and spruce showing the fastest onset of antiviral activity. The researchers concluded that wood's chemical composition is responsible for its antiviral functionality.
Researchers at the University of Toronto discovered a new RNA virus, Apocryptovirus odysseus, associated with severe inflammation in humans infected with Toxoplasma gondii. The virus is found in two hypervirulent strains of the parasite, exacerbating toxoplasmosis disease and triggering an immune response.
The team created finely detailed images of the viral RNA and replication structures, revealing spherical shapes around the nucleus of infected cells. The images provide insight into how the virus evades cell defenses and could lead to new therapeutic targets for drug development.
Researchers discovered that children with the worst outcomes had significantly fewer microbial species overall, but marked populations of Staphylococcus bacteria and viruses. The study used metagenomic next-generation sequencing to analyze lung fluid samples from 229 pediatric patients, revealing links between microbiome composition an...
A new approach to fighting Epstein-Barr virus-related diseases has been discovered by University of Basel researchers. By inhibiting a specific metabolic pathway in infected cells, the risk of downstream disease can be diminished.
Researchers at the University of Leeds identified a surge in rare autoimmune cases linked to MDA5 autoimmunity, affecting mainly white men and women. The condition, characterized by skin rashes, pneumonia, and interstitial lung disease, has proven fatal in some cases.