A replicating RNA vaccine, formulated with a lipid-based nanoparticle emulsion, produces antibodies against the COVID-19 coronavirus in mice and primates with a single immunization. These antibodies potently neutralize the virus in young and old animal…
Chinese phase 2 trial finds COVID-19 vaccine is safe and induces an immune response
A phase 2 randomized controlled trial of a recombinant adenovirus type-5-vectored COVID-19 vaccine (Ad5-vectored COVID-19 vaccine) was conducted in China in April 2020 and involved more than 500 people. The primary objective of the study was to evaluat…
UK’s vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 is safe and induces an immune reaction, according to preliminary results
A phase 1/2 trial involving 1,077 healthy adults found that the vaccine induced strong antibody and T cell immune responses up to day 56 of the ongoing trial. These responses may be even greater after a second dose, according to a sub-group study of 10…
Immunotherapy safe for patients with COVID-19, cancer
Initial findings from a new study show that immunotherapy for cancer won’t worsen complications for patients with the disease and COVID-19.
Synapse-saving proteins discovered, opening possibilities in Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia
Loss of synapses is a contributing factor to Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. Researchers discovered a class of proteins that inhibit synapse elimination, opening possibilities for novel therapies for the two diseases.
Type 1 interferon deficiency: Biomarker of patients at risk of severe COVID-19
Which patients are more likely to develop a severe form of COVID-19? In a new study, researchers describe a unique and unexpected immunological phenotype in severe and critical patients.
Vaccine additives can enhance immune flexibility — Implications for flu and SARS-CoV-2
A vaccine additive known as an adjuvant can enhance responses to a vaccine containing the exotic avian flu virus H5N1, so that both rookie and veteran elements of the immune response are strengthened, according to a new study.
CBD may help avert lung destruction in COVID-19, research suggests
Cannabidiol, or CBD, may help reduce the cytokine storm and excessive lung inflammation that is killing many patients with COVID-19, researchers say.
Researchers find three distinct immune responses for sicker COVID-19 patients
Researchers have discovered three distinct immune responses to the SARS-CoV2 infection that could help predict the trajectory of disease in severe COVID-19 patients and may ultimately inform how to best treat them. A second study uncovered new details …
COVID-19: Patients improve after immune-suppressant treatment
Most patients hospitalized with COVID-19 (coronavirus) pneumonia experienced improvement after receiving an FDA-approved drug normally given for rheumatoid arthritis, according to an observational study. Outcomes for patients who received the drug, toc…