Two mouse genes that were left behind by viral infections millions of years ago have evolved to help defend the brain against new infections.
19% of Americans say they are worried about contracting Monkeypox over the next three months. Most people remain uncertain about how Monkeypox is transmitted, or whether a vaccine is available.
Varicella zoster virus (VZV), the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles, may activate the herpes simplex virus and trigger the onset of Alzheimer's disease, a new mouse study found.
Around 25% of patients with multiple sclerosis have blood antibodies that bind to the Epstein-Barr virus and EBNA1, a protein made in the brain and spinal cord. Researchers say this is the first study to definitely show that the Epstein-Barr virus can cause multiple sclerosis in some patients.
Some viral infections could increase intercellular spreading of protein aggregates associated with neurodegenerative disorders, increasing the risk for developing Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Chikungunya, and other mosquito-borne alphaviruses are known to trigger brain infections and arthritis in those who contract the infections. Researchers have identified two antibodies that protect animals from diseases caused by alphaviruses. The findings could pave the way to new treatments and a universal vaccine for alphaviruses.
Chronic viral infections have a profound and lasting impact on the immune system in a similar way to aging. Chronic inflammation that occurs as a result of immune system dysregulation is often seen in diseases associated with aging.
Study reveals mutations of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, may not be a random process, but instead, humans are mutating it as part of a defense mechanism to degrade the virus. The findings may help in the creation of a vaccine for coronavirus.
Using computational methods, researchers created artificial proteins that triggered immune responses and produced infection specific antibodies. The findings indicate it will be possible to design vaccines that contain artificial antibodies, expediting the process of vaccine development.
Examining wastewater is helping researchers track coronavirus infection trends. The waste reflects the viral load excreted by a population within a few hours and can help establish COVID-19 community hot spots. While researchers will not be able to calculate the exact number of community cases of coronavirus by examining wastewater, they can trace the increase of SARS-CoV-2 concentration and track the level of infection rate.
Aerosolized particles produced while speaking may be enough to transmit coronavirus infection by those who are asymptomatic.
In addition to physical distancing and improved personal hygiene practices, the seasonal moderation of relative humidity indoors could help slow rates of transmission for COVID-19. However, the virus can still be transmitted via contact and close proximity to those infected, regardless of the season, researchers warn.
