Category Archives: Disease

Huge new database finds early transcriptional programs driving vaccine immunity

Posted on 13 July 2020 by mmmbitesizescience

In recent years, scientists have made huge progress in furthering our understanding of how the immune system works, and applying this knowledge to vaccine design. Yet we are still pretty much in the dark about what makes a “good” vaccine. … Continue reading →

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Posted in Disease, Health, Medicine, Science, Vaccines, Virology | Leave a comment

Exosomes may promote cancer spread after radiation therapy

Posted on 13 July 2020 by mmmbitesizescience

Exosomes are small vesicles that are packed full of microRNAs, proteins, lipids and other biological molecules that get released from most cells in the body. In different biological settings, exosomes can be considered as little bubbles of joy or little … Continue reading →

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Posted in Cancer Immunotherapy, Disease, Science | Leave a comment

A genetic blueprint of influenza virus

Posted on 13 July 2020 by mmmbitesizescience

Currently, scientists can easily manipulate the genetic codes and epigenetic markers of viruses. This can help us to come up with innovative new ways to protect against serious pathogens like influenza virus, which can cause debilitating and even fatal infections. … Continue reading →

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Posted in Disease, Health, Microorganisms, Science, Vaccines, Virology, Viruses | Leave a comment

Vaccinia virus infections guide new vaccine designs

Posted on 13 July 2020 by mmmbitesizescience

If we mapped out the family tree of poxviruses, then vaccinia virus (the causative agent of cowpox) and variola virus (the causative agent of smallpox) would probably be sisters. Or at the very least, cousins. This close heritage allows the … Continue reading →

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Posted in Disease, Microorganisms, Science, Vaccines, Virology, Viruses | Leave a comment

Blocking lethal viral haemorrhagic disease using interferons

Posted on 13 July 2020 by mmmbitesizescience

Genetics can have a big impact on immune responses, making some individuals more suspectible to infections than others. In the world of small mammals, the virus LCMV-Clone 13 establishes a chronic infection in one mouse strain without too much damage. … Continue reading →