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The patent application discussed in the article focuses on the development of a method for modifying immune cells, particularly macrophages, using lentiviral vectors to express therapeutic proteins for potential gene therapy applications. The inventors aim to address challenges in gene therapy for lung diseases by targeting macrophages as a delivery vehicle for sustained transgenic protein expression. The method involves transducing immune cells with lentiviral vectors pseudotyped with specific proteins to express therapeutic proteins, offering potential treatments for conditions like Cystic Fibrosis, Alpha 1-antitrypsin Deficiency, and other lung-related disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a universal influenza vaccine by Cambridge Technologies LLC, focusing on eliciting anti-neuraminidase antibodies to combat influenza A viruses. The vaccine aims to address the challenges posed by the genetic variability of influenza strains and the limitations of current vaccines. By utilizing recombinant baculovirus expression vectors expressing neuraminidase, the vaccine seeks to stimulate a broad-spectrum immune response against diverse influenza subtypes, offering potential protection against heterologous infections. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Georgia have conducted a study on the adaptation of human-to-swine influenza A virus, focusing on the role of neuraminidase in the process. The study found that mutations in the virus surface proteins, particularly in the low-affinity calcium-binding pocket of neuraminidase, play a crucial role in modulating the virus's activity during adaptation. This research sheds light on the mechanisms involved in influenza A virus adaptation and highlights the importance of calcium binding in the neuraminidase enzyme. The study was supported by the United States Department of Agriculture, National Institute of Food And Agriculture, and the National Pork Board. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to the University of Maryland College Park for recombinant influenza viruses and their uses. The patent describes methods and compositions for manipulating the influenza virus to improve vaccines and increase viral protein expression. It also discusses the construction of recombinant influenza viruses and the development of vaccines using these viruses. The patent provides detailed information on the genetic makeup of the influenza virus and its various proteins. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Duke University School of Medicine has explored the development of a new influenza vaccine that targets more conserved epitopes, which could potentially increase the breadth and durability of protection against the virus. The researchers replaced the full-length hemagglutinin protein in the vaccine with a "headless" variant, while retaining other viral structural proteins. The vaccine was found to elicit high levels of antibodies that recognized the more conserved epitopes on the viral glycoproteins, and these antibodies mediated protective functions such as neuraminidase inhibition and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. The study suggests that headless hemagglutinin-containing viral particles may be a promising tool for improving influenza vaccines. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Freie Universitat Berlin explores the evolutionary insights gained from association rule mining of co-occurring mutations in influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase. The study focuses on the continuous evolution of seasonal influenza viruses through antigenic drift, which leads to recurring epidemics and the need for updated vaccines. The researchers used association rule mining to identify temporal relationships between co-occurring mutations in the influenza virus A/H3N2, revealing both known and previously undiscovered mutation clusters. The study also identified the emergence and disappearance of N-glycosylation sites, which play a crucial role in protein stability and functional balance. The findings of this study offer an alternative approach to identifying co-occurring mutations and can aid in predicting critical mutations for future vaccine development and pandemic preparedness. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology have conducted a study on the influenza B virus and the effectiveness of different drugs in treating it. They found that combining the drug baloxavir with neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs) had a significant synergistic effect against wild-type influenza viruses and those with drug-resistance mutations. However, the combination of baloxavir with laninamivir did not have a synergistic effect on influenza B viruses. The researchers believe that these findings will be beneficial for developing combined drug therapies against influenza, especially considering the emergence of drug resistance to baloxavir. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute have conducted a study on the effects of fermented codonopsis lanceolata root extract (FCLE) on influenza A virus (IAV) infection. The study found that FCLE demonstrated higher antioxidant activity and increased content of bioactive compounds compared to the original root extract. FCLE effectively inhibited viral replication and reduced IAV-induced cytopathic effects in cell cultures. Oral administration of FCLE also protected against lethal IAV infection in mice. These findings suggest that FCLE could be a promising nutraceutical ingredient for respiratory health. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been submitted for the approval of a method to modulate antibody function through the modification of sialic acid residues. Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins produced by the immune system in response to harmful substances. This method aims to improve the use of antibodies as therapeutics and research tools by altering their immunomodulatory properties. The application includes various methods of modifying sialic acid residues and their potential effects on antibody function. The inventors propose that these modified antibodies could be used to modulate immune responses and improve disease outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to the University of Chicago for methods and compositions that can neutralize influenza. Influenza is a respiratory illness that causes millions of cases and hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide each year. The patent focuses on the development of antibodies that can neutralize the influenza virus, particularly the neuraminidase protein. These antibodies have the potential to be used for the treatment and prevention of influenza infections. The patent also includes specific claims related to the antibodies and their therapeutic use. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to the University of Chicago for methods and compositions that can neutralize influenza. The patent describes the use of antibodies, specifically those that target the neuraminidase protein of the influenza virus, to prevent and treat influenza infections. These antibodies have the potential to be effective against multiple strains of influenza A virus. The patent also includes information on the specific sequences of the antibodies and their potential use in pharmaceutical preparations. This research aims to address the limitations of current influenza vaccines and improve protection against the virus. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study aimed to isolate antibodies with cross-subtype reactivity against human H1N1 and H3N2 influenza A viruses. The study found that three monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were cross-reactive against the neuraminidase (NA) proteins of both subtypes, but did not inhibit NA enzymatic activity. One of the mAbs, 21H8, provided protection against H1N1 virus in mice, while another mAb, 45D9, did not provide protection against either H1N1 or H3N2 viruses. The protective efficacy of mAb 21H8 was found to be Fc-dependent, but reducing core fucosylation of its Fc N-glycan did not improve its protection. Further research is needed to understand the mechanism of Fc-mediated protection and enhance the efficacy of NA-specific antibodies against influenza. [Extracted from the article]

The article details a patent application for a method to enhance Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cell therapy efficacy through engineered secretion of Clostridium perfringens neuraminidase (CpNA). Topics discussed include the enhancement of T cell reactivity against solid tumors, the use of neuraminidase to boost immune responses, and the development of CAR T cells with modified antigen binding domains for targeted cancer treatment.

A patent application titled "Compositions And Methods For Debulking Virus Or Microorganism Load In The Oral Cavity" has been published online by the US Patent and Trademark Office. The patent application, filed by inventors Henry Daniell and Robert P. Ricciardi, aims to address the need for compositions and methods that effectively reduce viral and microbial load in the oral cavity. The method involves orally administering a composition containing a trapping molecule that binds to proteins or glucans on the surface of viruses or microorganisms, thereby reducing their load in the oral cavity. The invention focuses on reducing transmission, recovery time, and complications associated with viral and microbial infections. The patent application specifically mentions the potential use of the method for reducing SARS-CoV-2 viral load. The inventors propose using chewing gum as a carrier for the composition. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, has found that avian influenza A viruses with pandemic potential are highly susceptible to antiviral medications. The researchers screened over 20,000 protein sequences of various influenza viruses and found that the frequencies of substitutions associated with reduced inhibition by antivirals were low. The study also identified novel markers of resistance to existing antiviral interventions. These findings suggest that current antiviral medications are effective against avian influenza A viruses and provide valuable information for monitoring and preventing outbreaks. [Extracted from the article]

The article presents the discussion on comparison of conditions for the hydrolytic release of N-acetylneuraminic acid from bovine glycomacropeptide. Topics include several sugars being associated with the glycopeptide including N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac); and optimum conditions for a complete release of Neu5Ac from the glycopeptide being investigated using both acid and enzymatic hydrolysis.

A patent application by the University of Rochester has been made available online for a new invention related to anti-influenza neuraminidase monoclonal antibodies. Influenza infections remain a major public health concern, causing thousands of deaths and hospitalizations each year. The invention provides antibodies that specifically bind to the neuraminidase of the influenza virus, potentially offering broad protection against diverse influenza strains. These antibodies can be used to neutralize the virus, treat or prevent influenza virus infections, and are suitable for use in pharmaceutical compositions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in silico (using computer simulations) screened a library of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to identify potential inhibitors for the neuraminidase enzyme of the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The study found that two compounds, grosvenorine and pectolinarin, showed promise as effective inhibitors. The compounds were predicted to interact with key residues in the active site of the neuraminidase protein and demonstrated favorable binding energy. However, further evaluation in vitro and in vivo is necessary to confirm these findings. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Shizuoka, Japan, has focused on the development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) to target the mumps virus (MuV). The researchers synthesized MuV sialidase inhibitors, compounds that can inhibit viral replication and infection. These inhibitors showed higher specificity for MuV and were more effective than existing inhibitors. The study provides valuable insights for the development of highly potent sialidase inhibitors as potential antivirals against MuV. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy has investigated the potential of natural compounds to treat coinfections of influenza A virus and Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria. The study utilized molecular docking and virtual screening techniques to identify flavan-3-ols and flavanones as potential inhibitors for both neuraminidase and M. pneumoniae. Four candidates were identified as suitable inhibitors, and a synthesis strategy for one of the compounds was proposed. The findings of this study provide insights for future methods to combat resistant strains of influenza A virus and M. pneumoniae. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Henan University of Science and Technology in China explores the biological roles and therapeutic relevance of neuraminidase-1 (NEU1) in human disease. Neuraminidases are enzymes that play important roles in the development and function of tissues and organs by catalyzing the desialylation of cell-surface glycoconjugates. The study highlights the potential of selectively modulating neuraminidase activity as a strategy for treating various human pathologies, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and pulmonary disorders. The researchers aim to improve our understanding of NEU1-associated diseases to facilitate the development of novel therapeutics. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Connecticut explores the adaptations of the ventricular-subventricular zone (V-SVZ) stem cell niche in a mouse model of post-infectious hydrocephalus (PIH). The study found that congenital PIH, characterized by enlargement of the ventricular system, affects the V-SVZ and leads to astrogliosis and hydrocephalus. The researchers observed changes in ependymogenesis and stem cell numbers in response to ventriculomegaly, but no significant reduction in new neurons reaching the olfactory bulb. The study provides insights into the acute adaptations of the V-SVZ stem cell niche and developmental changes that mitigate the severity of congenital PIH. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to Sanofi for engineered influenza antigenic polypeptides and immunogenic compositions. The invention aims to develop a universal vaccine for influenza by creating "mosaic" polypeptides that maximize exposure to epitopes present across multiple influenza virus strains. The method involves obtaining amino acid sequences from multiple circulating strains of influenza, aligning them, identifying known epitopes and antigenic regions, and inserting selected sequences into a structural backbone to generate a mosaic influenza polypeptide. The engineered polypeptides aim to provide improved protective immunity and broaden the coverage of current strain-specific vaccines. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Greifswald in Germany has found that pneumococcal neuraminidases, enzymes produced by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, increase platelet killing by pneumolysin, a toxin produced by the bacteria. The researchers discovered that the neuraminidases desialylate platelet glycoproteins, which enhances the binding of pneumolysin and increases pore formation, ultimately leading to platelet death. However, the study also found that therapeutic immunoglobulin G preparations, a type of antibody, can decrease platelet desialylation and reduce pore formation, suggesting that they could be used as a potential treatment for severe pneumococcal pneumonia. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a patent for anti-influenza B virus neuraminidase antibodies and their uses. The patent describes antibodies that bind to the neuraminidase of influenza B virus strains, inhibiting their enzymatic activity. These antibodies have the potential to prevent and treat influenza B virus infections and diseases. The patent also includes information on expression vectors, host cells, and methods for expressing and isolating the antibodies. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from the National Research and Innovation Agency in Indonesia explored the potential of Indonesian herbal compounds as natural inhibitors of the neuraminidase protein in the influenza virus. Neuraminidase inhibitors are commonly used as anti-influenza drugs, but resistance to these drugs is increasing. The researchers used virtual screening techniques and identified 24 hits, with five compounds showing the best binding energy. Among these, OPC-4:0 was found to be the most promising compound for further analysis. This study suggests that OPC-4:0 could be a potential candidate for the development of new anti-influenza drugs. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have reported new findings on the isolation of human antibodies against the Influenza B Virus (IBV) neuraminidase (NA) glycoprotein. The study describes the identification of two major antigenic sites recognized by the antibodies, as well as the demonstration of two delivery routes for protection against IBV. The research contributes to our understanding of the human immune response to IBV and identifies potential therapeutic candidates. The study has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of protection against IBV. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Obafemi Awolowo University have conducted a study on the inhibitory potential of naturally occurring biflavonoids on influenza neuraminidase (NA). Using computational approaches, the researchers identified several biflavonoids with high binding affinities to the NA enzyme. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that these biflavonoids were stable in the enzyme's binding pocket, and ADMET studies indicated good pharmacokinetic and bioavailability properties. The researchers concluded that these biflavonoids could potentially be helpful in managing influenza infections. The study provides valuable insights into the development of new therapeutic agents for influenza. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has found that natural variation in the activity of the neuraminidase (NA) enzyme can influence the evolutionary potential of the hemagglutinin (HA) protein in the seasonal H1N1 influenza A virus. The researchers observed substantial variation in the activity of NA proteins in a panel of H1N1 vaccine strains isolated between 2009 and 2019. They also found that the specific antibody escape profiles of HA were highly dependent on the NA background. These findings suggest that natural variation in NA activity plays a significant role in shaping the evolution of HA in the currently circulating H1N1 lineage. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Georgia has explored the potential of a computationally optimized broadly reactive antigen (COBRA) vaccine in protecting against the H7N9 strain of the influenza virus. The researchers incorporated H2, H5, H7, N1, and N2 antigens into the vaccine and found that it induced a robust immune response and prevented lung damage in pre-immune mice. The vaccinated mice showed no weight loss, clinical signs of disease, or mortality when challenged with the H7N9 virus. The study suggests that the combination of COBRA antigens has the potential to be used in the development of a universal influenza virus vaccine. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Tianjin Medical University in China explored the levels of IgA binding and sialylation profiles of IgG in IgA nephropathy (IgAN), a kidney disorder characterized by the deposition of immune complexes in the glomeruli. The researchers found that sialylated IgG (SA-IgG) levels were negatively correlated with galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) in IgAN patients. Additionally, the study revealed that desialylated IgG (DSA-IgG) had a higher binding capacity to Gd-IgA1 compared to intact IgG. These preliminary findings suggest that the binding level of IgA in purified SA-IgG is lower than that in DSA-IgG. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine has explored the potential of bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) in the prevention and treatment of influenza virus infection. The study focused on the development of bsAbs that simultaneously target two glycoproteins on the influenza virion surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). The researchers found that these bsAbs showed potent neutralizing and egress-inhibiting activity, providing higher levels of prophylactic protection from mortality and morbidity compared to parental monoclonal antibodies. This research highlights the potential use of bsAbs as new influenza immunotherapeutics, offering enhanced activity in combating the global health burden of influenza. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Vanderbilt University School of Medicine has provided new insights into the Human Parainfluenza Virus (hPIV3) and its potential treatment. hPIV3 is a respiratory pathogen that can cause severe disease in older people and infants. The study found that naturally occurring human antibodies can neutralize hPIV3 by targeting specific proteins on the virus. These monoclonal antibodies have shown promise in protecting against infection in vitro and in vivo. While vaccines for hPIV3 are still in clinical trials, this research offers potential clinical utility for the treatment of the virus. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from medrxiv.org discusses the impact of anti-Neuraminidase (NA) antibodies on influenza A/H3N2 susceptibility and infectivity. The study conducted household transmission studies in Managua, Nicaragua and found that higher levels of preexisting antibodies against the hemagglutinin (HA) head, HA stalk, and NA were associated with reduced susceptibility to infection. Only anti-NA antibodies were associated with reduced infectivity. The results suggest that influenza vaccines designed to elicit NA immunity in addition to hemagglutinin immunity may contribute to protection against infection and reduce infectivity of vaccinated individuals upon infection. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna, Austria, has found that vaccination against the influenza virus can reduce the risk of infection by 40% to 60%. The study focused on the importance of the neuraminidase (NA) protein as a surface target for influenza vaccines. The researchers compared the efficacy of a NA displayed on virus-like particles (VLPs) with a soluble NA, and found that the VLP preparation induced higher levels of NA-specific antibodies, providing better protection against the virus. This research suggests that vaccination with standardized NA concentration may offer broader and longer-lasting protection against influenza infection. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been submitted for a composition that aims to enhance the ability of natural killer (NK) cells to target HIV-infected cells. The composition includes a targeting domain specific for binding to an HIV antigen and a domain for desialylation of HIV-infected cells. The desialylation domain contains a neuraminidase enzyme, such as NEU1, NEU2, NEU3, NEU4, or a bacterial or viral neuraminidase. This composition could potentially be used to prevent or treat HIV or associated diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers from Chulalongkorn University in Thailand investigated the characteristics and evolution of the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) genes of the influenza A(H3N2) virus in Thailand from 2015 to 2018. The study found that the A(H3N2) virus in Thailand exhibited high genetic variation and continuously evolved to evade host defenses. The HA and NA genes of the virus showed amino acid substitutions in antigenic sites A and B, and the N-glycosylation of the NA gene was affected by specific substitutions. The findings provide valuable information for monitoring the genetic characteristics and evolution of the influenza A(H3N2) virus in Thailand, which is important for predicting vaccine strains and improving vaccine effectiveness. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Utrecht University have discovered a potential new approach to developing influenza A virus vaccines. Current vaccines primarily target the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, which requires frequent updates due to its variability. However, this study focused on the neuraminidase (NA) protein as an alternative target. By presenting NA antigens on nanoparticle carriers, the researchers were able to enhance the immune response and improve protection against influenza A virus in mice. These findings suggest that NA-Mi3 nanoparticles could be a promising vaccine candidate to complement existing HA-directed approaches and provide broader protection against influenza A virus. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have discovered human monoclonal antibodies that can help fight against influenza B, a virus that poses a significant public health threat, especially to children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Current seasonal flu vaccines do not provide the broadest immune response against both influenza A and B, and individuals with weakened immune systems may not respond effectively to the flu shot. The researchers isolated two groups of monoclonal antibodies from the bone marrow of a previously vaccinated individual, and one of these antibodies, FluB-400, demonstrated the ability to inhibit virus replication and protect against influenza B in laboratory and animal models. The researchers suggest that intranasal administration of these antibodies may be more effective and have fewer side effects than other routes of administration. These findings support the development of FluB-400 for the prevention and treatment of influenza B and may contribute to the development of a universal influenza vaccine. [Extracted from the article]

A research study conducted by the University of Bamenda in Cameroon investigated the prevalence of different red blood cell (RBC) invasion pathways in Plasmodium falciparum parasites, which cause malaria. The study found that approximately 80% of the isolates invaded RBCs treated with neuraminidase but not chymotrypsin, indicating the presence of sialic acid (SA)-independent invasion pathways. The analysis of gene expression between the two groups revealed the upregulation of genes involved in merozoite organelle discharges and proteins associated with RBC surface remodeling and immune evasion. These findings suggest potential targets for anti-invasion strategies in malaria treatment. [Extracted from the article]