This month’s research round-up covers a number of studies investigating hydroxychloroquine, along with a remdesivir study, the first Phase I vaccine clinical trial and an exploration of the burden of COVID-19 on the healthcare system.
Researchers from Princeton University have uncovered an antibiotic molecule capable of killing both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria using two simultaneous mechanisms, while also avoiding antibiotic resistance.
The largest trial to date assessing the use of convalescent plasma therapy for COVID-19 has revealed that the treatment is effective in 76% of patients, with no adverse effects. Further research is needed to evaluate how to optimize this therapy.
In this interview we speak to Jonathan Kurtis (Brown University, RI, USA) about the discovery of a parasite protein that provides new insights into how malaria regulates infection levels within its host, along with new possibilities for a broadly effective vaccine and a new class of antimalarial drugs.
Researchers have demonstrated that two COVID-19 vaccine candidates can protect against COVID-19 in primates, with re-exposure triggering an immune response in rhesus macaques.
After analyzing data from SARS survivors, a team of researchers from across the globe has identified an antibody that can inhibit related coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2. The antibody, termed S309, is now on an accelerated path towards clinical trials.
Researchers have demonstrated that cigarette smoke causes an increased expression of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), the SARS-CoV-2 receptor, in the lungs. This suggests that individuals who smoke could be more susceptible to severe SARS-CoV-2 infections.
An exploratory study testing interferon α-2b treatment for COVID-19 has demonstrated improved viral clearance in a small cohort of patients. The researchers also observed a reduction in levels of inflammatory proteins in COVID-19 patients after treatment.
Researchers have discovered that numbers of microRNAs responsible for attacking SARS-CoV-2 are reduced in the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, which could explain their vulnerability.
Researchers at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) and Catholic University of Korea (CUK) have developed a vaccine platform against MERS coronavirus (MERS-CoV) that could be used to develop a vaccine for COVID-19.
