interferon

Researchers generated complete genomes of two important bat species and explored their immune- and cancer-related genes.

SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers structural changes in the host cell’s DNA, which provide a molecular explanation for long COVID, a new study suggests. 

A study finds that T cells induced by heroin cross the blood-brain barrier to wreak havoc on the brain, hinting at new ways to prevent withdrawal.

The “tripledemic” shines a spotlight on viral interference, in which one infection can block another.

It’s not clear why grain-fed mice are better able to recover after infection, but a study’s findings suggest food type may skew the results of animal studies.

In people with the genetic condition, inflammation can cause a mild infection to snowball out of control, a study finds.

If the immune system makes mistakes—reacting late or getting the target wrong—it can amplify the damage wrought by SARS-CoV-2.

A comparison of interferon-related genes across 20 primate genomes reveals differences in the speed at which they evolve and new targets for antiviral discovery efforts.

Differences in the expression of genes associated with antiviral immunity and lung inflammation may contribute to a more serious COVID-19 infection.

Researchers detail how viral proteins interact with host RNA to disrupt the cell’s ability to fight back against infection.

These antiviral proteins are produced by the body as a natural defense against viral infections and synthetic interferons might help prevent or treat the beginning stages of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

The viral protein known as ORF3b limits the induction of the type I interferon response, which typically alerts other immune system components to the presence of a virus, in cultured cells.

The antimicrobial drug neomycin protects mice from some viral infections, complicating the picture of the relationship between antibiotics and susceptibility to viruses.

Signaling pathways triggered by the mother’s immune system may cause complications during fetal development.

Julius Youngner collaborated with Jonas Salk on the polio vaccine, and later identified interferon gamma and contributed to an equine influenza vaccine.

Type I interferon organizes several immune mechanisms to suppress B cell responses to a chronic viral infection.

Certain immune cells surrounding the organ appear to block viral entry.

A better knowledge of the pathogenesis of emerging zoonotic diseases is crucial if we want to prepare for “the next Ebola.”

Jean Lindemann, the virologist who helped figure out that interferons were responsible for anti-viral responses, has passed away at age 90.