Articles tagged with Viruses
Researchers identified PUCH, a novel enzyme that produces small molecules called piRNAs to detect and prevent parasitic DNA from replicating in our genomes. This discovery sheds light on how our immune system works and may have implications for understanding innate immunity.
Researchers found that reducing biodiversity harms mosquito species, leading to more resilient species and increased virus prevalence. The study suggests that a decrease in biodiversity can lead to an increase in the spread of viruses carried by mosquitoes.
A study by Charité and Leibniz-IZW found that reducing biodiversity in rainforests leads to an increase in virus prevalence among mosquito species. This is because resilient species thrive in disturbed habitats, carrying viruses with them. The research reveals the importance of biodiversity in understanding infectious disease dynamics.
Researchers launch EU-funded initiative to uncover EBV's role in MS, aiming to find underlying mechanism and develop antiviral treatments. The project seeks to improve disease course or stop progression, with potential for preventive strategies like vaccination.
New research reveals that the Deformed wing virus DWV-A originated in Asia, contradicting previous European origins. The study found that Varroa mites transmitted the virus to European honey bees after their introduction to Asia, leading to widespread infections and colony declines.
Researchers found that a subset of HIV-infected cells produce viral RNA and proteins during anti-retroviral therapy, which may impact patients' immune responses. The study suggests that these non-functional viral pieces can stimulate an immune response, potentially leading to inflammation and negative consequences for treated individuals.
Researchers developed a self-decontaminating fabric that kills coronaviruses in under 5 seconds using Joule heating. The material can handle hundreds of uses with minimal waste, transforming the way personal protective equipment is made and used.
A Europe-wide study found associations between climatic factors and the occurrence of pathogens in birds and bats, with temperature increasing the risk of avian flu virus and malaria parasites. Rainfall had both positive and negative effects on pathogen prevalence, increasing the risk of certain viruses and bacteria.
Scientists have identified a molecule that effectively inhibits heparanase activity related to the herpes simplex virus, reducing its spread on human cells. The discovery is an important step towards developing a non-toxic heparanase inhibitor for clinical use.
Researchers have developed a new approach to treating herpes by inhibiting an enzyme that releases newly formed virus particles from infected cells. The inhibitors, made of oligosaccharides, significantly reduce the spread of the virus and may also impede cancer metastasis.
Researchers developed a model explaining why bat-borne viruses cause higher case fatality rates in humans compared to other zoonoses; life history and immunology play key roles.
RSV virus remains infectious on surfaces for up to seven days, emphasizing the need for regular disinfection. Effective hand sanitizers with at least 30% alcohol content can inactivate the virus.
Researchers developed an automated viral plaque assay method combining time-lapse holographic imaging and deep learning to greatly reduce detection time. This technique can aid in developing new vaccines and antiviral drugs by expediting the testing process, allowing for faster response times to virus-induced health emergencies.
University of Louisville researchers have received a five-year, $11.7 million National Institutes of Health grant to investigate the connection between microorganisms and disease. The study will focus on various chronic conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, diabetes, periodontitis, and colorectal cancer.
Researchers found stable antibodies in 800-year-old medieval human teeth that can still recognize viral proteins, allowing them to study the history of infectious human diseases. This discovery expands the field of palaeoproteomics and may enable experts to analyze how human antibody responses developed over time.
A recent study published in Cell Host and Microbe reveals how flaviviruses hijack human cells to promote replication. The discovery of KAT5γ's critical role in viral replication paves the way for designing inhibitory molecules to stop viral replication.
City of Hope will conduct Phase 1 clinical trials for novel cell and gene therapy treatments for patients with HIV, acute myeloid leukemia, and severe aplastic anemia. A CAR T therapy for HIV is also being developed to potentially target other diseases.
Researchers have developed novel molecules that target the membrane of viruses, rather than their proteins, offering a promising new approach for treating infectious diseases. The molecules, inspired by natural peptides, disrupt the protective layers of enveloped viruses like Zika and chikungunya, while sparing human cells.
Researchers investigated the inactivation efficacy of different UV wavelengths against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants, finding similar inactivation properties across various wavelengths. The study highlights the potential of far-UVC light as a safe germicidal option for mitigating airborne virus transmission.
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh Center for Vaccine Research have identified a protein responsible for lethal liver disease in mice infected with Rift Valley fever virus. Removing this protein, Lrp1, from the liver prevented viral replication and extended mouse lifespan.
Researchers found that expression of CiDRE in alveolar macrophages makes patients more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 invasion and promotes cytokine storm. The genetic quirk is associated with severe COVID-19 symptoms, suggesting potential treatments targeting IL-10R and CiDRE.
Researchers developed modular optical sensors capable of detecting viruses and bacteria using fluorescent carbon nanotubes with DNA anchors. The sensors showed high reliability and selectivity in detecting SARS-CoV-2 protein, offering advantages for complex environments and future diagnostic applications.
The digitization of Johanna Bonne-Wepster's field notes has filled significant gaps in mosquito research and tropical medicine. The collection contains valuable information on vector-borne diseases and their spread, which can inform current public health issues and future disease modeling.
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science have discovered picolinic acid's ability to disrupt viral entry into host cells, blocking enveloped viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A viruses. The compound targets a host-derived component of the virus, causing permanent damage while minimizing effects on the host cell.
Researchers have discovered how MCV initiates DNA replication in host cells, allowing the virus to make hundreds of new copies of itself. This process is different from normal cellular DNA replication and can lead to cancer if not controlled.
Researchers discuss treatment refractory forms of chronic sinusitis, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary diagnostics and therapy. Fungal infections are a rare cause, yet crucial to consider when treating this condition.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have solved the mystery of how the Hepatitis C virus evades the human immune system. The virus uses a molecule called FAD as a 'mask', cloaking itself in a form that is already present in cells, making it invisible to the immune system.
A novel therapy boosting honey bees' immune systems has shown significant success in reducing virus activity and improving colony survival. The treatment uses a compound called pinacidil to increase free radicals, signaling the immune system to fight off viruses.
A team of researchers led by Dr. William Gilhooly III found that viruses are infecting sulfur bacteria, altering their genetic code and influencing their behavior in oxygen-deficient lakes. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the impact of viral infections on bacterial ecosystems.
New study finds that men who suffered from mild COVID-19 have lower sperm concentrations and motility even three months after recovery. The researchers believe that the virus may cause permanent damage to male fertility, leading to long-term decline in semen quality.
Researchers have identified over 30 previously unknown RNA viruses in sea lice, suggesting they may play a role in controlling sea-lice populations. The viruses' ability to rapidly replicate and weaken their hosts maintains balance in nature.
Researchers identified a single mutation in the hepatitis E virus polymerase that renders sofosbuvir therapy ineffective, resulting in a fivefold loss of efficacy. This discovery provides new insights into the development of future therapies against hepatitis E, which is responsible for 70,000 annual deaths globally.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have uncovered the atomic structure of the Langya virus, a highly infectious virus with pandemic potential. The study aims to develop broad-spectrum human vaccines and treatments for Henipaviruses, which cause severe disease and have the potential to get out of control.
Researchers at Trudeau Institute and Texas Biomedical Research Institute found that prior dengue infection can worsen Zika virus outcomes during pregnancy. Pregnant marmoset monkeys infected with dengue passed significantly more Zika virus to their fetuses than those without dengue, suggesting a link between the two viruses.
Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that apple-shaped obesity is associated with cytokine storm and a higher risk of death in COVID-19 patients. The study suggests that obese patients with excess belly fat may benefit from anti-inflammatory therapies, including IL-6 blockers.
A case of echovirus 11-induced hepatitis in Italian male twins has been reported, showing a close genetic relation to strains found in France among neonates. The study highlights the importance of rapid recognition and timely treatment to ensure survival, and suggests potential host genetic predisposition in male and twin categories.
A study by CU Boulder researchers suggests that the ancient virus-like protein PEG10 may contribute to the development of ALS by interfering with brain and nerve cell communication. The findings provide a promising new target for treating the underlying cause of the fatal disease.
Researchers discovered fragments of RNA viruses embedded in coral partners' genomes, dating back 160 million years. The discovery provides insights into how corals fight off viral infections and may hold the key to understanding the ecological impact of viruses on reef health.
Researchers found that centenarians have a diverse gut virome with high microbial diversity associated with a healthy gut microbiome. The study suggests that intestinal bacteria and bacterial viruses may work together to promote healthy lifespan.
Researchers from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden report that individuals vaccinated against smallpox decades ago retain cross-reactive immunity to mpox. The study found that previous smallpox vaccination provides about 80% protection against mpox.
A study of 1,050 pregnant women found frequent detection of HPV, with infrequent perinatal transmission. The authors note challenges in distinguishing contamination from true infection, particularly in placentas.
Dengue infection prevalence in US territories highlights need for improved control measures. Novel vector control methods and vaccine development hold promise for combating the disease.
New research found that area-level deprivation is strongly associated with the risk of long COVID, with females having a higher risk. People working in healthcare and education sectors had the highest risk of long COVID compared to those in manufacturing and construction sectors.
A gene-edited calf demonstrates reduced susceptibility to bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) after intentionally altering the CD46 receptor with CRISPR/Cas9. The healthy calf showed no measurable infectious virus in its blood, despite both calves developing antibodies to the virus.
A study examines how viral infections may alter microbial processes and ecosystem functioning in response to climate change. The research reveals potential gaps in understanding the connections between viruses, warming, and ecosystem functioning.
Researchers found that face masks significantly reduced the release of exhaled particles in children, which can help prevent the spread of respiratory infections. The study used cloth and surgical masks to test various activities, including breathing quietly, speaking, singing, coughing, and sneezing.
Researchers have proposed a new evolutionary model for the origin of the Bamfordvirae kingdom of viruses, suggesting a billion-year evolutionary arms race between two groups and their hosts. The study reveals strong evidence against a sister relationship between adenoviruses and NCLDVs, instead supporting a common ancestor with Mavericks.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have identified a key protein involved in viral reinfections that could be targeted by antiviral drugs. Inhibiting heparanase activity can protect against herpes simplex virus type 1 reinfection, potentially leading to breakthroughs in preventing recurrent infections.
Researchers found that non-mandatory measures had a greater impact on reducing travel distances and times, while mandatory measures only slightly affected these metrics. In contrast, strict metre rules and reopening of gyms increased distance travelled.
Researchers found that maternal overweight compromises the placenta's antiviral response, weakening its ability to protect the fetus. The study suggests that adequate antenatal care is crucial in preventing complications from Zika infection.
A new study at Umeå University reveals that tick-borne encephalitis virus infects distinct brain cell types and regions depending on the immune system's activation status. The researchers mapped the virus's behavior in the brain, identifying specific areas and cells infected by TBE virus.
A new study by the Peter Doherty Institute found that First Nations populations are significantly more likely to be hospitalized and die from influenza compared to non-Indigenous populations. Influenza-associated hospitalization and mortality rates were consistently higher in First Nations communities globally.
Researchers discovered how the Epstein-Barr virus exploits genomic weaknesses to cause cancer by cleaving human chromosome 11, triggering a cascade of genomic instability. The study highlights the potential risk factors for EBV-associated diseases and suggests that blocking EBNA1 binding can prevent their development.
Researchers have developed an approach to studying HBV in the lab, allowing for a sharper view of its behaviors and characteristics during its life cycle. This breakthrough could lead to improved drug treatments and potentially even a cure for hepatitis B.
Researchers found an exceptional number of unknown viruses in the faeces of 647 healthy Danish one-year-olds, representing more than 200 families of yet to be described viruses. These viral species likely have a major impact on whether children develop various diseases later on in life.
Researchers found over 30,000 unknown viruses integrated into the DNA of single-celled eukaryotic organisms, including algae and human parasites. These 'virophages' may protect their hosts from giant virus infections by reprogramming them to build virophages.
Researchers discovered multiple virus types persisting within organs such as kidneys and brain, challenging our understanding of the human microbiome. The findings suggest viruses may contribute to chronic diseases like cancer or autoimmune disorders, while also playing a role in immune system regulation.
Researchers discovered that viruses that infect bacteria and archaea in deep-sea hydrothermal vents share a common immunological memory, allowing symbiotic microbes to defend against the same virus. This challenges conventional wisdom on virus-host interactions, revealing a more nuanced relationship between these microorganisms.
A study published in Journal of General Internal Medicine found that 41% of patients with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) had moderate to severe sleep disturbances. Black patients were three times more likely to develop these disturbances, highlighting the need for race-specific interventions to address disparities.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia discovered that viral proteins use phase separation to coordinate the complex process of replicating viral genomes and then encapsulating them in a viral particle. This process allows for the orderly and coordinated formation of infectious viral offspring.