Neither of the new viruses is known to infect people, but the findings reinforce the important work scientists are undertaking to study the effects of a changing environment on human and animal diseases.
Science & Technology
Stem cells can repair Parkinson’s-damaged circuits in mouse brains
UW neuroscientists led by Su-Chun Zhang found that neurons derived from stem cells can connect with native neurons and restore motor functions. But more research is needed to translate the findings from mice to people.
New vaccine strategy harnesses ‘foot soldier’ T-cells to provide protection against influenza
Researchers believe the same approach can be applied to several other respiratory pathogens, including the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
New COVID-19 clinical trials at UW–Madison and UW Health will study antibody approach
The trials center around an “antibody cocktail” called REGN-COV2, which was created by the New York-based pharmaceutical company Regeneron.
Tiny mineral particles are better vehicles for promising gene therapy
UW–Madison researchers have developed a safer and more efficient way to deliver a promising new method for treating cancer and liver disorders and for vaccination — including a COVID-19 vaccine that has advanced to clinical trials.
Hamsters develop protective immunity to COVID-19 and are protected by convalescent sera
The animals are useful to researchers trying to understand SARS-CoV-2 and in the evaluation of vaccines, treatments and drugs against the disease it causes.
Study confirms cats can become infected with and may transmit COVID-19 to other cats
Researchers advise that people with symptoms avoid contact with cats, and cat owners should keep their pets indoors to limit contact with other people and animals.
Research on viral junk, quicker drug testing could help outflank coronaviruses
Researchers hope to better understand how coronaviruses enter cells, spread, and cause varying immune responses in different individuals.
Combining mouse and human data uncovers new gene regulating cholesterol
Work by Brian Parks and collaborators provides a new target for understanding the genetic risk of high cholesterol, which is linked to heart disease.
Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene works with campus partners to test for COVID-19
Although the global surge in demand has made it more difficult in many places, WSLH’s colleagues at the university have pitched in to keep testing available in Wisconsin.