Latest news with #Diseases
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Business Standard
a day ago
- Health
- Business Standard
New mRNA vaccine is more effective, less costly to develop, shows study
A new type of mRNA vaccine is more scalable and adaptable to continuously evolving viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and H5N1, according to a study by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health and the Pennsylvania State University. The study was published today in npj Vaccines. Though highly effective at inducing an immune response, current mRNA vaccines, such as those used to prevent COVID-19, present two significant challenges: the high amount of mRNA needed to produce them and the constantly evolving nature of the pathogen. "The virus changes, moving the goal post, and updating the vaccine takes some time," said senior author Suresh Kuchipudi, Ph.D., chair of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology at Pitt Public Health. To address these challenges, the researchers created a proof-of-concept COVID-19 vaccine using what's known as a "trans-amplifying" mRNA platform. In this approach, the mRNA is separated into two fragments -- the antigen sequence and the replicase sequence -- the latter of which can be produced in advance, saving crucial time in the event a new vaccine must be developed urgently and produced at scale. Additionally, the researchers analysed the spike-protein sequences of all known variants of SARS-CoV-2 for commonalities, rendering what's known as a "consensus spike protein" as the basis for the vaccine's antigen. In mice, the vaccine induced a robust immune response against many strains of SARS-CoV-2. "This has the potential for more lasting immunity that would not require updating, because the vaccine has the potential to provide broad protection," said Kuchipudi. "Additionally, this format requires an mRNA dose 40 times less than conventional vaccines, so this new approach significantly reduces the overall cost of the vaccine." The lessons learned from this study could inform more efficient vaccine development for other constantly evolving RNA viruses with pandemic potential, Kuchipudi said. "We hope to apply the principles of this lower-cost, broad-protection antigen design to pressing challenges like bird flu," added Kuchipudi.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
New Covid vaccine developed by USA researchers is ready to fight Coronavirus. How effective it is?
Amid fresh surge in Covid-19 cases, a team of US researchers has developed a new type of mRNA vaccine that is more scalable and adaptable to tackle continuously evolving viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and H5N1. While the currently available mRNA vaccines are highly effective at inducing an immune response against Covid , they present challenges like the high amount of mRNA needed to produce them and the constantly evolving nature of the pathogen. "The virus changes, moving the goal post, and updating the vaccine takes some time," said senior author Suresh Kuchipudi, chair of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health. To address these challenges, the researchers created a proof-of-concept Covid vaccine using what's known as a "trans-amplifying" mRNA platform. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pare a neuropatia: descubra como NeuroFit Undo In this approach, the mRNA is separated into two fragments -- the antigen sequence and the replicase sequence -- the latter of which can be produced in advance, saving crucial time in the event a new vaccine must be developed urgently and produced at scale. In addition, the researchers analysed the spike-protein sequences of all known variants of the SARS-CoV-2 for commonalities, rendering what's known as a "consensus spike protein" as the basis for the vaccine's antigen. Live Events In mice, the vaccine induced a robust immune response against many strains of SARS-CoV-2. "This has the potential for more lasting immunity that would not require updating, because the vaccine has the potential to provide broad protection," said Kuchipudi. "Additionally, this format requires an mRNA dose 40 times less than conventional vaccines, so this new approach significantly reduces the overall cost of the vaccine." The study, published in the journal npj Vaccines could inform more efficient vaccine development for other constantly evolving RNA viruses with pandemic potential, Kuchipudi said.
The Sun
05-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Deploying AI to boost early detection of lung disease
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is taking a bold step in the early detection of lung disease by deploying artificial intelligence (AI) software at selected public health clinics to analyse chest X-rays. The initiative seeks to curb the nation's alarmingly high rate of late-stage lung cancer diagnoses. Currently, 90% to 95% of cases are only detected at Stage 3 or 4 when treatment is far less effective and survival rates plummet. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the rollout signals a fundamental shift in the national approach to lung health, anchoring it within a more integrated public health strategy targeting both communicable and non-communicable diseases. 'Instead of treating each disease in isolation, we're now focusing on the lungs as a central point of intervention – an organ that's exposed to multiple risk factors such as smoking, air pollution, occupational hazards and infections,' he said at the Health Ministry headquarters yesterday. 'This technology allows us to monitor lung health in a more comprehensive and proactive way, enabling earlier, more effective interventions before diseases progress to advanced stages.' Disease Control Division (Non-Communicable Diseases) deputy director Dr Noraryana Hassan said the AI software, once integrated with existing X-ray machines, will enhance the accuracy and speed of diagnosis. 'The system can detect abnormalities like nodules or shadowing that may escape the human eye, thus improving the likelihood of catching diseases like lung cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage,' she said. The pilot phase will see the AI technology deployed at seven public health clinics, each serving as a regional analysis hub. The clinics selected are Seberang Perai (Penang), Kok Lanas (Kelantan), Kajang (Selangor), Luyang (Sabah), Beserah (Pahang), Pendang (Kedah) and Batu 9 Cheras (Kuala Lumpur). Clinics not equipped with the software can refer X-ray images to these hubs for analysis. Each centre will also coordinate with nearby hospitals for follow-up consultations and access to advanced diagnostics such as CT scans. Noraryana said the one-off cost of installing the AI software is approximately RM10,000 per clinic, but added that its accessibility across clinic networks means it does not need to be installed at every site. The AI initiative falls under the Malaysia Lung Health Initiative 2025–2030, a national roadmap aimed at transforming how lung diseases are detected, treated and prevented. The plan targets major respiratory illnesses including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and tuberculosis. It emphasises early screening, public education, integrated care and coordinated action to reduce exposure to known risk factors. Additional components include enhanced anti-smoking campaigns, stricter enforcement of the newly passed Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023 (Act 852), improved workplace safety protocols and national-level efforts to address air pollution. The initiative also aims to reduce the burden of preventable respiratory diseases by tackling root causes such as tobacco use, second-hand smoke exposure, environmental pollutants and occupational risks. Malaysia will further elevate the conversation to the global stage with plans to table a resolution on integrated lung health at the upcoming World Health Assembly in Geneva.
Yahoo
28-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Strengthening Communities: A Campaign Dedicated to Fighting Infectious Diseases
NEW YORK, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mediaplanet, a leader in purpose-driven content marketing, proudly announces the launch of its latest campaign, Infectious Diseases. This initiative aims to enhance public understanding of the risks and effects of infectious diseases while equipping individuals with essential resources to protect themselves and their loved ones. Despite remarkable advancements in modern medicine, infectious diseases remain a global challenge, impacting millions each year. From emerging threats to seasonal illnesses, the need for reliable, up-to-date health information has never been more critical. Mediaplanet's Infectious Diseases campaign serves as a vital platform to educate and empower communities across the nation, fostering a healthier and more resilient society. The print component of "Infectious Diseases" is distributed in today's edition of USA Today in New York, Detroit, Chicago, Pittsburgh and more, with a circulation of approximately 150,000 copies and an estimated readership of 450,000. The digital component is distributed nationally, through a vast social media strategy, and across a network of top news sites and partner outlets. To explore the digital version of the campaign, visit: This campaign was made possible with the support of Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA), American Lung Association, The Joint Commission, Families Fighting Flu, AMR Action Fund, Hepatitis B Foundation, American Society for Microbiology, American Academy of Pediatrics, Vaccinate Your Family, Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists (SIDP), National Association of School Nurses (NASN), and Kelley Flanagan and features paid content from Gilead Sciences, Biolabs International, Textile Rental Services Association, and Aligos Therapeutics. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Mediaplanet Sign in to access your portfolio
