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

Donald Trump

The latest tariffs are part of Trump’s broader effort to address what he claims are unfair trade practices

Getty

Trump pressures UK to accept chlorinated chicken for tariff relief

Britain is facing renewed pressure from the United States to lift its ban on chlorinated chicken as a condition for tariff relief, following the imposition of sweeping new trade barriers by Donald Trump’s administration. The US president has introduced a 10 per cent tariff on all British exports to the United States, with even steeper levies placed on imports from the European Union.

US tariffs and trade demands

The latest tariffs are part of Trump’s broader effort to address what he claims are unfair trade practices. The White House, in its announcement, criticised the UK’s “non-science-based standards” that restrict American agricultural imports, including poultry and beef. It argued that these trade policies act as non-tariff barriers that disadvantage US exporters.

Keep ReadingShow less
8 packaged foods recalled in UK in the last month

These food recalls show how important it is to check labels and stay updated on safety alerts

iStock

8 packaged foods recalled in UK in the last month

Food recalls in the UK are issued when products pose risks to consumers. These risks can range from contamination to allergen mislabelling, and staying informed about these recalls is crucial for consumer safety. Recent recalls emphasize the importance of vigilance when purchasing and consuming food items. If you’ve recently stocked up on groceries, it’s time to check your pantry and fridge to ensure none of the items listed below are affected.

1. Tony’s Chocolonely Chocolate Bars

On April 2, 2025, Tony’s Chocolonely recalled its Dark Almond Sea Salt & Everything Bar after discovering small stones in the product. The presence of foreign objects in food can pose serious risks, such as dental damage or choking hazards. The company has urged customers to return the affected items immediately to avoid potential harm. If you have recently purchased this product, check your packaging and return it to the store where it was bought for a full refund.

Keep ReadingShow less
Priyanka Chopra’s Skincare Secret for a Radiant Glow

A glimpse into the secret behind her flawless, dewy glow

Instagram/ priyankachopra

Priyanka Chopra shares her skincare secret for achieving the ultimate glow

Global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas has once again mesmerized fans, not just with her undeniable star power but also with her radiant beauty and touching personal moments. The actress recently took to social media to unveil her simple yet effective skincare ritual, offering a glimpse into the secret behind her flawless, dewy glow.

A glow that speaks volumes

Priyanka’s skincare revelation came via her Instagram stories, where she showcased the results of her go-to beauty practice, a sheet mask. The actress shared snapshots flaunting her luminous complexion post-skincare, proving that sometimes, the simplest routines yield the most stunning results.

Keep ReadingShow less
Meghan Markle

Meghan remains optimistic about the future of her brand

Getty

Meghan Markle’s ‘As Ever’ products sell out in just 30 minutes, including £21.60 honey jars

Meghan Markle’s latest business venture, the As Ever lifestyle range, has made a remarkable debut, with products selling out in under 30 minutes. The highly anticipated collection, which features a selection of premium artisanal goods, has garnered immediate consumer interest and social media excitement.

Among the standout products was a jar of wildflower honey with honeycomb, priced at $28 (£21.60), which quickly disappeared from the online store. Other sought-after items included flower sprinkles at $15 (£11.60), raspberry jam at $14 (£10.80), and a selection of herbal teas and baking mixes, each ranging between $12 (£9.30) and $14 (£10.80). The rapid sell-out reflects Meghan’s growing influence in the lifestyle and wellness market.

Keep ReadingShow less
Kareena Kapoor

Striking appearance at the Vivienne Westwood show

Instagram/ kareenakapoorkhan

Kareena Kapoor dazzles in red at Vivienne Westwood show in Mumbai

Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor made a striking appearance at the Vivienne Westwood show in Mumbai on Tuesday evening, turning heads in a glamorous red ensemble. The event, held at the iconic Gateway of India, was a celebration of India’s rich textile heritage and featured an exclusive showcase of Vivienne Westwood’s Spring-Summer 2025 collection.

A show-stopping look

Kareena Kapoor, known for her impeccable fashion sense, was the cynosure of all eyes as she arrived in a stunning red gown featuring a thigh-high slit, corset bodice, and off-shoulder sleeves. Her outfit exuded elegance and sophistication, complemented by her gold-hued heels, which added a touch of glamour to her look.

Keep ReadingShow less