Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Occludin protein facilitates coronavirus spread in humans: Study

The findings hold promise for the development of future antiviral drugs aimed at targeting this protein and disrupting the spread of the coronavirus

Occludin protein facilitates coronavirus spread in humans: Study

Researchers from the University of Missouri, USA, have made a significant breakthrough by identifying occludin, a specific protein within the human body, as a crucial facilitator of coronavirus spread from cell to cell following infection.

The study, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlights how this protein acts as a mediator for the transmission of the virus between cells.


These findings hold promise for the development of future antiviral drugs aimed at targeting this protein and disrupting the spread of the coronavirus.

"This basic, scientific research is very important to better understand the underlying mechanisms of disease progression inside the body's cells so that the proper countermeasures can be identified and developed," said Wenjun Ma, an associate professor at the university and lead author of the study.

In their investigation of the coronavirus's cell-to-cell spread, the research team conducted a thorough analysis of cell samples. Their findings revealed that when the occludin protein within a single cell is compromised by the virus, it accelerates viral replication and facilitates the rapid transmission to adjacent cells within the body.

Consequently, this process exacerbates the infection and increases the likelihood of more severe symptoms.

The team emphasised the potential significance of this knowledge for the development of antiviral drugs.

By exploring the impact of antiviral medications on fortifying the occludin protein against infection, researchers aim to leverage this understanding to improve treatment strategies and potentially mitigate the virus's spread, Ma said.

Extensive analysis of cell samples by the research team has shed light on the intricate process of coronavirus transmission between cells. They discovered that while the virus initially infects a single cell, the complexity of cellular structures becomes evident as the occludin protein within the cell becomes damaged. This damage triggers rapid viral replication and facilitates the spread to neighbouring cells.

Ma stated, "For example, if only one cell in the lungs is infected at first, the ability to breathe may not be significantly impacted. "However, once the virus spreads to neighbouring cells throughout the lungs, it can lead to difficulty breathing and other respiratory problems.”

In the future, Ma intends to expand the scope of research by investigating the potential impact of other viral infections on the occludin protein. This endeavor aims to enhance our understanding of how various viruses interact at the cellular level with their host organisms.

(PTI)

More For You

Sukhvinder Kaur: Finding light in the tunnel of loneliness

Sukhvinder Kaur: Finding light in the tunnel of loneliness

LONELINESS can affect people of all ages and backgrounds in different ways. Sukhvinder Kaur was deeply impacted by social isolation after her marriage broke down, leaving her alone with two young children.

Despite a happy upbringing, a supportive family, and a strong community network, she began experiencing uncomfortable thoughts that didn’t resonate with her, leading to increased isolation.

Keep ReadingShow less
Ayurveda: The ancient science of balance and well-being

Ayurveda was given to mankind at the time of satyug, when the diseases though existed had not yet manifested in the physical world.

iStock

Ayurveda: The ancient science of balance and well-being

Ashwini Gurujii

Ayurveda finds it origin in one of the four Vedas, the Atharvaveda. Brahma ji propounded the science of Ayurveda and passed it on to Daksh Prajapati, who gave it to Ashwini Kumars, the physicians of devas, and they gave it to Indra.

Ayurveda was given to mankind at the time of satyug, when the diseases though existed had not yet manifested in the physical world. The level of existence was so pure and selfless that diseases were unable to manifest then. The rishis of satyug realized that in the times to come, the thoughts of people are going to become so polluted that diseases will find the required environment to manifest and then the need of Ayurveda would arise, so Rishi Bharadwaj went up to Indra Dev and asked for this divine science.

Keep ReadingShow less
Why helping ageing parents is precious

As our parents age, we embrace new roles in their lives with compassion and care.

Why helping ageing parents is precious

AS OUR parents’ health begins to deteriorate, one of the hardest things in life is watching them age. Some can no longer walk for more than 10 minutes, and their memory isn’t what it used to be. There are also hidden complications associated with ageing.

I grew up in a working-class family. My dad was named Simba when he lived back in Zanzibar, Africa. He swam in the open ocean and ran for miles. The joinery skills he learned from his father have been passed down to my brother and me. My mum worked long hours sewing and in factories to provide for us, ensuring we had everything we needed. She also taught me never to rely on anyone for anything, which has shaped me into the strong, independent woman I am today.

Keep ReadingShow less
Spring-clock-change-iStock

Circadian rhythms regulate physiological processes in living organisms, including plants, animals, and even bacteria. (Photo: iStock)

How the spring clock change impacts sleep and health

EVERY YEAR, about a quarter of the world's population adjusts their clocks for daylight saving time (DST).

While it may seem like a small change, some experience fatigue, irritability, and brain fog in the days that follow. For night owls, the adjustment can take weeks.

Keep ReadingShow less
Reconnecting with lost Eid traditions

Bring the past into the present for a richer celebration

Reconnecting with lost Eid traditions

EID is a joyous time filled with unity, reflection, and celebration.

While the essence of the celebration has remained unchanged across centuries, the way this special day is celebrated has evolved, with many older traditions being replaced by modern practices and technological advancements.

Keep ReadingShow less