Possible New Route To Fight Dengue Virus
Researchers have identified enzymes and biochemical compounds called lipids that are targeted and modified by the dengue virus during infection, suggesting a potential new approach to control the aggressive mosquito-borne pathogen. Findings also suggest that medications used to treat high cholesterol and other lipid-related conditions might also inhibit dengue's replication and could represent a potential new therapy. The researchers have identified how infected mosquito cells undergo changes to certain lipids in membranes and in biochemical sensors that alert cells of invading viruses.
Genetic Basis Of Tropical Foot And Leg Lymphedema Identified
Farmers in the highlands of southern Ethiopia scratch out a subsistence living from the region's volcanic red clay. The soil supports the farms, but fine-grained, volcanic rock particles in the dirt threaten the farmers and their families. Continual exposure of bare feet to the volcanic soil causes 1 in 20 people to develop a painful inflammation of the lower extremities that, over time, leads to foot disfigurement. Doctors call it podoconiosis. The locals call it mossy foot. And those affected suffer social stigma as well as debilitating discomfort.
What Is Avian Flu? What Is Bird Flu?
Avian flu, also known as bird flu and more formally as avian influenza, refers to flu caused by viruses that infect birds and make them ill. It is an infectious disease of birds caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. HPAI (highly pathogenic avian influenza ) - the more virulent one - is the one health care authorities are most concerned about. Avian flu affects several types of birds, including farmed poultry, i.e. chickens, geese, turkeys and ducks. Avian flu is the illness caused by the Avian influenza virus.