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.
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.
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.
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.
Building on their previous research into SARS-CoV, researchers have identified a human monoclonal antibody capable of preventing both SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 from infecting cultured cells. This cross-neutralizing feature could potentially mitigate future related coronaviruses.
Researchers have demonstrated that a patient’s T cell count may be more indicative of COVID-19 case severity than respiratory function.
Researchers at MIT and Harvard (MA, USA) have identified cell expressing two proteins that allow the SARS-CoV-2 virus to infect human cells. Their aim is to help scientists develop new drug treatments and test existing drugs to tackle the disease.
In October 2019 researchers from Brazil identified a new parasite, which presented with similar symptoms to visceral leishmaniasis. To discover more about this novel parasite and other parasitic diseases in Brazil, we interviewed Sandra Maruyama from the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar; São Paulo, Brazil) about her research and the future of this field.
Researchers have discovered an association between the spread of HIV and quantity of extracellular vesicles from lactobacilli, suggesting a protective mechanism to inhibit the spread of HIV infection.
