MedWorm: Herpes

Arnault Tzanck, MD (1886-1954)

Transfusion Medicine Reviews — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 15:31:46 +0100

Arnault Tzanck's name is attached to an apparatus he invented that was widely used for transfusing blood in France between the wars, as well a simple test he devised using the microscopic analysis of scrapings from skin cancer lesions, different ganglia, and some forms of dermatitis especially pemphigus. The Tzanck smear is still widely used as a test for herpes, among other diseases. He also experimented with different methods of preserving blood and blood substitutes. Tzanck's most lasting contribution was in the organization of blood transfusion in France that eventually resulted in the creation of the Centre National de Transfusion Sanguine (National Blood Transfusion Center), which was established in 1949 with Tzanck as its first director. In the process, Tzanck educated a whole gener...

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Transient viral-mediated overexpression of α-calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II in the nucleus accumbens shell leads to long-lasting functional upregulation of α-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionate receptors: dopamine type-1 receptor and protein kinase A dependence

European Journal of Neuroscience — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) activity is necessary for the long-lasting expression of locomotor sensitization and enhanced drug-taking observed in rats previously exposed to psychostimulants. Exposure to these drugs also transiently increases [alpha]CaMKII levels in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc), an effect that, when mimicked by transient viral-mediated overexpression of [alpha]CaMKII in NAcc shell neurons, leads to long-lasting enhancement in locomotor responding to amphetamine and NAcc [alpha]-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionate (AMPA). The present experiments characterized the dopamine (DA) dependence of the functional AMPA receptor upregulation observed long after transient overexpression of [alpha]CaMKII. Rats infected with herpes simplex virus-[...

Statistische Betrachtungen an 426 in der Basler SPACEugenklinik behandelten Fallen von Herpes corneae

Ophthalmologica — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Ophthalmologica 1955;130:244-271 (DOI:10.1159/000302689) (Source: Ophthalmologica)

Phase I Study of KW-0761, a Defucosylated Humanized Anti-CCR4 Antibody, in Relapsed Patients With Adult T-Cell Leukemia-Lymphoma and Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma [Hematologic Malignancies]

Journal of Clinical Oncology — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 22:01:36 +0100

Conclusion KW-0761 was tolerated at all the dose levels tested, demonstrating potential efficacy against relapsed CCR4-positive ATL or PTCL. Subsequent phase II studies at the 1.0 mg/kg dose are thus warranted. (Source: Journal of Clinical Oncology)

Low prevalence of DNA viruses in the human endometrium and endometriosis

Archives of Virology — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 19:29:50 +0100

This study investigates the possible involvement of a pathogenic virus in endometriosis patients and controls. DNA was purified from biopsies and subjected to highly sensitive PCR tests detecting human papillomavirus (HPV) types, the herpes family viruses HSV-1 and -2, CMV, and EBV, and the polyomaviruses SV40, JCV, BKV, KIV, WUV, and MCV. The prevalence of pathogenic DNA viruses in the human endometrium was generally low (0–10%). The virus prevalence was found to vary slightly when comparing the endometrium of healthy women and women with endometriosis. However, these were not significant differences, and no viruses were identified in endometriotic lesions. These results do not point towards any evidence that endometriosis is caused by these viruses. Content Type Journal Arti...

Herpes testing: What to ask for, when to ask

MayoClinic.com Full Feed — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:34:00 +0100

Herpes testing — Make sure you get this test and not a similar but less-accurate one. (Source: MayoClinic.com Full Feed)

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NPR Examines CDC Report On Genital Herpes, Black Community

Women's Health / OBGYN News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:00:00 +0100

NPR Examines CDC Report On Genital Herpes, Black Community

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:00:00 +0100

NPR's "All Things Considered" on Friday examined a recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analysis showing that roughly 16% of U.S. residents ages 14 through 49 are infected with genital herpes, making it one of the nation's most common sexually transmitted infections. The analysis also showed that 48% of black women between 14 and 49 are infected with the virus, and that blacks have a 39% infection rate, compared with 12% among whites. In addition, 21% of U.S. women are infected with genital herpes, compared with 11% of men... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Black Children At Lower Risk Of Shingles After Chickenpox Vaccine; Genetic Explanation Is Most Likely, Researchers Think

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Black children are less likely than white or Asian children to develop shingles (herpes zoster) after receiving the varicella vaccine to prevent chickenpox, reports a study in the March issue of The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. The journal is published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, a part of Wolters Kluwer Health, a leading provider of information and business intelligence for students, professionals, and institutions in medicine, nursing, allied health, and pharmacy... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Black Children At Lower Risk Of Shingles After Chickenpox Vaccine; Genetic Explanation Is Most Likely, Researchers Think

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Human herpesvirus-8 in northwestern China: epidemiology and characterization among blood donors

Virology Journal — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: HHV-8 seroprevalence was significantly high among blood donors in Xinjiang, where the prevalence of KS correlates with HHV-8 prevalence and titers in Uygur and Kazak ethnic groups. Blood exposure represented by the frequency of blood donation indicated a possible blood-borne transmission route of HHV-8 in Xinjiang. Detecting anti-HHV-8 antibodies before donation in this region is therefore important. (Source: Virology Journal)

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Vital Signs: Hazards: Report Finds High Rate of Herpes in U.S.

NYT > Health — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 05:20:15 +0100

Recent figures from the C.D.C. showed one in six Americans have genital herpes, prompting concern among health officials because people with the virus are at greater risk of H.I.V. infection. (Source: NYT > Health)

Impact of congenital anomalies and treatment location on the outcomes of infants hospitalized with herpes simplex virus (HSV)

Journal of Hospital Medicine — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a rare but costly reason for hospitalization in infants under 60 days of age. The impact of coexisting comorbid conditions and treatment location on hospital outcome is poorly understood.Determine patient and hospital factors associated with poor outcomes or death in infants hospitalized with HSV.Retrospective cohort study using the 2003 Kids' Inpatient Database (KID).U.S. hospitals.Infants under 60 days of age with a diagnosis of HSV.Treatment at different types of hospitals, younger age at admission, and presence of congenital anomalies.Serious complications, in-hospital death.A total of 10% of the 1587 identified HSV hospitalizations had a concurrent congenital anomaly. A total of 267 infants had a serious complication and 50 died. After controlling for cli...

CDC: HSV-2 Infection Rates Stable in US, Approximately 1 in 6 Infected

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 21:35:26 +0100

Herpes simplex virus (HSV)-2 infection rates have remained relatively stable for the past 10 years, at a little more than 16%, with women and blacks disproportionately affected. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Vital Signs: Report Shows High Rate of Herpes Infection in U.S.

NYT > Health — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 18:17:01 +0100

Targeting trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer cells with a lentivirus engineered to bind antibodies that recognize HER-2

Breast Cancer Research and Treatment — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 17:58:15 +0100

In conclusion, HER-2 over-expressing breast cancer cells resistant to trastuzumab can be targeted for selective gene expression and destruction by viruses with envelope-proteins engineered to bind to this antibody. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Preclinical studyDOI 10.1007/s10549-010-0828-9Authors Kai-xin Zhang, The Vancouver Prostate Centre 2660 Oak Street Vancouver BC V6H-3Z6 CanadaConnie Kim, The Vancouver Prostate Centre 2660 Oak Street Vancouver BC V6H-3Z6 CanadaElaine Chow, The Vancouver Prostate Centre 2660 Oak Street Vancouver BC V6H-3Z6 CanadaIrvin S. Y. Chen, University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine Los Angeles CA USAWilliam Jia, University of British Columbia Department of Surgery and Brain Research Centre Vancouver BC CanadaPaul S. R...

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Erythema multiforme-like eruption localized to a sun-exposed area

Photodermatology, Photoimmunology and Photomedicine — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

We report on a 35-year-old woman with cutaneous lesions characterized by an erythema multiforme-like appearance localized in the photo-distributed pattern. She had no history of systemic drug ingestion, herpes simplex virus or any other infection, possible causes of erythema multiforme, before the sun exposure. She had normal tolerance to a phototest, but photoprovocation tests could not be performed because she did not agree to them. This case was diagnosed to be an erythema multiforme-like variant of a polymorphous light eruption; the differential diagnosis of target-like lesions in a photo-distributed pattern is discussed. (Source: Photodermatology, Photoimmunology and Photomedicine)

Primary immunodeficiencies of protective immunity to primary infections.

Clinical Immunology — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bousfiha A, Picard C, Boisson-Dupuis S, Zhang SY, Bustamante J, Puel A, Jouanguy E, Ailal F, El-Baghdadi J, Abel L, Casanova JL The vast majority of primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) predispose affected individuals to recurrent or chronic infectious diseases, because they affect protective immunity to both primary and secondary or latent infections. We discuss here three recently described groups of PIDs that seem to impair immunity to primary infections without compromising immunity to secondary and latent infections. Patients with mutations in IL12B or IL12RB1 typically present mycobacterial disease in childhood with a favorable progression thereafter. Cross-protection between mycobacterial infections has even been observed. Patients with mutations in IRAK4 or MYD88 suffer f...

Glycoprotein C of equine herpesvirus 4 plays a role in viral binding to cell surface heparan sulfate.

Virus Research — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Azab W, Tsujimura K, Maeda K, Kobayashi K, Mohamed YM, Kato K, Matsumura T, Akashi H Heparan sulfate moieties of cell surface proteoglycans serve as receptors for several herpesviruses. For herpes simplex virus 1, pseudorabies virus and equine herpesvirus 1, glycoprotein C (gC) homologues have been shown to mediate the binding to cell-surface heparan sulfate. However, the role of gC in equine herpesvirus 4 (EHV-4) infection has not yet been analyzed. Using pull-down assay, we first determined that EHV-4 gC as well as gB are heparin-binding glycoproteins. To study the role of gC in EHV-4 infection, we constructed a gC-deletion mutant, WA79DeltagC, where the kanamycin resistant gene was inserted instead of the open reading frame encoding gC. We found that soluble heparin was cap...

Was pereirina the first alkaloid isolated in Brazil?

Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 14:10:30 +0100

This article describes the history of pereirina, an alkaloid extracted from Geissospermum vellosii Allemão barks, a Brazilian plant of Apocynaceae's family, popularly known as "pau-pereira". The botanical classification of this species and the use of pereirina in popular medicine were reasons for controversies and irritated disputes for the glory of the discovery among Brazilians and foreigners pharmacists. For two centuries, the pau-pereira's barks were important remedy to combat various diseases, because the therapeutic properties of alkaloids present in the barks of the species. The currently researches are being carried out for scientific proof of its effectiveness in combating viral diseases such as AIDS, herpes and hepatitis C. (Source: Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia)

Inhibition of TNFalpha-induced iNOS expression in HSV-tk transduced 9L glioblastoma cell lines by Marasmius oreades substances through NF-kappaB- and MAPK-dependent mechanisms.

Molecular Biology Reports — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study we show that TNFalpha, but not LPS, was significantly able to stimulate the production of NO in HSV-tk transduced 9L glioblastoma cell lines, mediated by the up-regulation of iNOS transcript and iNOS protein. The TNFalpha-induced up-regulation of iNOS expression was mediated by MAPK and NF-kappaB signaling pathways as revealed by using selective pharmaceutical inhibitors. A culture liquid extract of the edible and medicinal mushroom Marasmius oreades that was previously shown to inhibit iNOS expression in MCF-7 was utilized to prepare fractions and evaluate their ability to affect TNFalpha-induced iNOS expression in HSV tk transduced 9L cell lines. While most of the tested fractions were shown to inhibit TNFalpha-induced iNOS expression, they targeted different signaling path...

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Your partner has herpes - now the good news

New Scientist - Health — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:27:59 +0100

The genes that allow herpes virus to evade our immune system have been identified and deleted to form a new vaccine (Source: New Scientist - Health)

CDC Analysis Shows Genital Herpes Rates Remain High

Women's Health / OBGYN News From Medical News Today — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100

Roughly 16% of U.S. residents ages 14 through 49 are infected with genital herpes, making it one of the nation's most common sexually transmitted infections, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analysis released on Tuesday, Reuters reports. CDC noted that infection rates for the lifelong and incurable infection varied by gender and race. Twenty-one percent of U.S... (Source: Women's Health / OBGYN News From Medical News Today)

CDC Analysis Shows Genital Herpes Rates Remain High

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0100

Roughly 16% of U.S. residents ages 14 through 49 are infected with genital herpes, making it one of the nation's most common sexually transmitted infections, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analysis released on Tuesday, Reuters reports. CDC noted that infection rates for the lifelong and incurable infection varied by gender and race. Twenty-one percent of U.S. women are infected with genital herpes, compared with 11.5% of men. Blacks have a 39% infection rate, compared with 12% among whites... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Oncolytic herpes simplex virus armed with xenogeneic homologue of prostatic acid phosphatase enhances antitumor efficacy in prostate cancer

Gene Therapy — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: P Castelo-Branco, B J Passer, J S Buhrman, S Antoszczyk, M Marinelli, C Zaupa, S D Rabkin & R L Martuza (Source: Gene Therapy)

SR proteins SRp20 and 9G8 contribute to efficient export of herpes simplex virus 1 mRNAs.

Virology — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

We report that siRNA knockdown of SRp20 or 9G8 resulted in about a 10 fold decrease in virus yields and in nuclear accumulation of poly(A+) RNA. In infected cells depleted of SRp20, newly transcribed Bromouridine-labeled RNA also accumulated in the nucleus. We conclude that SRp20 and 9G8 contribute to HSV-1 RNA export. PMID: 20227104 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Virology)

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Regeneration, in vitro glycoalkaloids production and evaluation of bioactivity of callus methanolic extract of Solanum tuberosum L.

Fitoterapia — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Al-Ashaal HA Callus and differentiated shoots initiated from Solanum tuberosum L on MS media contained BA, IAA, and Kin. Glycoalkaloids produced in callus and shoots in concentrations higher than original tubers using HPLC. Callus methanolic extract had promising anticancer activity with low IC(50) values against human carcinoma cell lines of breast, lymphoplastic leukemia, larynx, liver, cervix, colon, and brain, IC(50) (mug/mL) were 2.7, 3.7, 6, 6.7, 10, 13.6, and 22.3 respectively. Antioxidant capacity of the extract (76.4%) performed using ESR. Preliminary screening showed that the extract exhibited in vitro virucidal activity against Herpes simplex. The extract possessed in-vitro schistomicidal and fasciolicidal activity. PMID: 20227470 [PubMed - as supplied by publis...

CORRECTED: U.S. herpes rates remain high: CDC

Reuters: Health — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 21:46:25 +0100

(Corrects first bullet to show figure is for those aged 14 to 49 not entire population; changes 9th para to read "due" instead of "do" and adds CDC clarification on gender and racial (Source: Reuters: Health)

Health Buzz: 1 in 6 Americans Has Genital Herpes

U.S. News - Health — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:03:00 +0100

Online screening tools for depression or anxiety; risks of longtime osteoporosis medicine use. (Source: U.S. News - Health)

CDC: Herpes still 'serious' threat

CNN.com - Health — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:42:29 +0100

As much as 16 percent of the U.S. population between the ages of 14 and 49 has genital herpes, according to a government study released Tuesday. (Source: CNN.com - Health)

Clinical and Virologic Efficacy of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Suppression by Acyclovir in a Multicontinent Clinical Trial

The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:08:35 +0100

The Journal of Infectious Diseases, Volume 0, Issue 0, Page 000, Latest Articles. Acyclovir suppressive therapy (400 mg twice daily) reduces herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2–associated genital ulcer disease and lesional HSV shedding. In an international trial of acyclovir for suppression of HSV type 2 to prevent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) acquisition (HIV Prevention Trials Network 039), acyclovir had a smaller effect on the frequency of genital ulcer disease as well as a smaller effect on the frequency and quantity of lesional HSV DNA in African women and Peruvian men, compared with its effects in men in the United States. The observed regional variation in the clinical and virologic efficacy of acyclovir for HSV suppression warrants further evaluation of determinants of r...

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Genital Herpes Rates Still High

eMedicineHealth.com — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

CDC: Genital Herpes Rates Still High (Source: eMedicineHealth.com)

CDC: Genital Herpes Rates Still High

MedicineNet HIV General — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: CDC: Genital Herpes Rates Still HighCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/10/2010 8:48:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 3/10/2010 8:48:30 AM (Source: MedicineNet HIV General)

CDC: Genital Herpes Rates Still High

MedicineNet Womens Health General — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: CDC: Genital Herpes Rates Still HighCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/10/2010 8:48:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 3/10/2010 8:48:30 AM (Source: MedicineNet Womens Health General)

New Genetic Test Helps Doctors Predict Frequency Of Genital Herpes Outbreaks

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 03:00:00 +0100

Molecular dermatology research and development innovator DermaGenoma, Inc. released The HerpesDX Genetic Test for Frequent Genital Herpes. The new screening test will help doctors assess patients' risk for developing frequent Genital Herpes (HSV-2) outbreaks. "Until now, physicians have been unable to give patients an answer to the most common question asked by recently infected Genital Herpes patients: Will I have frequent outbreaks?," says DermaGenoma CEO Andy Goren. "Using the HerpesDX genetic test, a doctor can finally assess a patient's risk for frequent outbreaks... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

New Genetic Test Helps Doctors Predict Frequency Of Genital Herpes Outbreaks

Sexual Health / STDs News From Medical News Today — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 03:00:00 +0100

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Six months anti-viral prophylaxis significantly decreased cytomegalovirus disease compared with no anti-viral prophylaxis following renal transplantation

Transplant International — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

We followed up 550 primary kidney transplant recipients in an observational retrospective cohort to evaluate the impact of three consecutive cytomegalovirus (CMV) prevention strategies. In period 1 (1996[ndash]2000; n = 190), no anti-CMV prophylaxis was given; in period 2 (2000[ndash]2004; n = 173), 6-month valacyclovir was given and in period 3 (>2004; n = 187), 6-month valganciclovir was given. Cytomegalovirus disease significantly decreased from 33.2% in period 1 to 13.9% in period 2 and to 8.6% in period 3; onset was significantly prolonged with valganciclovir (228 days) compared with valacyclovir (93 days) and with no prophylaxis (33 days). After Cox regression adjustments, both valganciclovir and valacyclovir were similarly protective factors for CMV disease. Cytomegalovirus diseases...

One in Six Americans Ages 14 to 49 Has Herpes

Modern Medicine — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Overall, about one in six Americans in the 14 to 49 age group is infected with herpes simplex virus type 2, with higher rates found among women and African-Americans, according to the results of a nationwide survey released March 9 by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Viral and bacterial aetiologies of male urethritis: findings of a high prevalence of Epstein-Barr virus

International Journal of STD and AIDS — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:06:05 +0100

In this study the prevalences of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), HSV-2, cytomegalovirus (CMV), adenovirus, Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma urealyticum (including subtyping) were investigated. Samples from 112 male STI attendants with microscopically verified urethritis and from a control group of 103 men without clinical or microscopic signs of urethritis were analysed. Prevalences in the urethritis group compared with the controls were as follows: EBV 21%, 6% (P < 0.01); C. trachomatis 15%, 3% (P < 0.01); M. genitalium 6%, 1% (P = 0.067) and U. urealyticum 10%, 10% (ns). The results for HSV-1, HSV-2, CMV and adenovirus were negative in patients, and therefore not analysed in the controls. EBV was shown to be an indepen...

Disseminated mucocutaneous herpes simplex virus infection in an immunocompetent woman

International Journal of STD and AIDS — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:06:05 +0100

Disseminated mucocutaneous herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection in an immunocompetent person is quite rare. A 19-year-old healthy Japanese woman presented with painful, umbilicated vesicles and pustules on her genital region, both nipples and on the forearm 10 days after the last sexual contact with her partner who had cold sore at that time. Tzanck test and biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of disseminated mucocutaneous HSV infection. She did not have any visceral HSV disease. Skin lesions improved after treatment with acyclovir and erythromycin for seven days. We propose that like herpes gladiatorum, HSV dissemination in this case was acquired by close body contact. (Source: International Journal of STD and AIDS)

Herpes Infects One in Six in U.S.

MedlinePlus Health News — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:00:00 +0100

Most don't know they have the disease, CDC says, upping risks for transmitting it to others Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Page: Herpes Simplex (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

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U.S. herpes rates remain high: CDC

Reuters: Health — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:46:09 +0100

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - About 16 percent of Americans between the ages of 14 and 49 are infected with genital herpes, making it one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases, U.S. health officials said on Tuesday. (Source: Reuters: Health)

A significant association of viral loads with corneal endothelial cell damage in cytomegalovirus anterior uveitis

British Journal of Ophthalmology — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:49:02 +0100

Conclusion There is a significant correlation between the CMV viral load and corneal endothelial cell loss in both CMV-associated iridocyclitis and corneal endotheliitis. (Source: British Journal of Ophthalmology)

CDC: Genital Herpes Rates Still High

WebMD Health — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 05:00:00 +0100

One in six Americans between the ages of 14 and 49 have genital herpes and close to 1 in 2 black women are infected, new figures from the CDC reveal. (Source: WebMD Health)

CDC: U.S. STD's remain unacceptably high

Health News - UPI.com — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 04:33:57 +0100

ATLANTA, March 8 (UPI) -- The United States suffers high rates of herpes, particularly among women and African-Americans, health officials said. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Does herpes zoster ophthalmicus increase the risk of stroke?

Neurology — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:59:32 +0100

(Source: Neurology)

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Herpes zoster ophthalmicus and the risk of stroke: A population-based follow-up study

Neurology — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:59:32 +0100

Conclusions: Herpes zoster ophthalmicus may represent a marker of increased risk of stroke development during the 1-year follow-up period. (Source: Neurology)

Infectious virus hidden in chromosomes during latency can be passed from parents to children

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 05:00:00 +0100

(University of South Florida Health) In some individuals the common herpes virus HHV-6 can integrate into structures at the end of chromosomes and be reactivated to an infectious form. The findings are reported online, March 8, 2010, in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

What Causes Pharyngitis?

PediatricEducation.org — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:10:32 +0100

Discussion Sore throat caused by group A, beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GAS) is classically characterized as a patient with a constellation of various symptoms including fever, headache, emesis, sore throat, palatal petechiae, abdominal pain, sand-papery skin rash and often with a history of close contact. The rapidity of onset is relatively short but generally not characterized as rapid. Patients with upper respiratory tract symptoms or allergic symptoms including rhinitis, conjunctivitis, voice changes (e.g. raspy, croupy, laryngitic) tend to have viral etiologies for their sore throat. Differentiating between viral pharyngitis and GAS is a common conundrum. Rapid antigen testing and throat cultures assist in making the proper diagnosis, so that nonsupprative complications such as acute ...

Human herpes virus type 8-associated Kaposi sarcoma in a pediatric liver transplant recipient

Pediatric Transplantation — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Çeltik C, Ünüvar A, Aydoğan A, Gökçe S, Öztürk G, Güllüoğlu M, Yılmaz G, Türkoğlu S, Anak S, Sökücü S, Durmaz Ö. Human herpes virus type 8-associated Kaposi sarcoma in a pediatric liver transplant recipient.Pediatr Transplantation 2010 © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.Abstract: Development of KS in pediatric liver transplant recipients is a rare entity and has dismal prognosis. Latent HHV-8 infection, immunosuppression, and genetic predisposition are possible etiological factors. Decreasing the dose or cessation of immunosuppressive drugs, switching to sirolimus with antiproliferative and antitumor properties, and different chemotherapeutic regimens are the current therapeutic strategies. We herein report a pediatric liver transplant recipient who dev...

Linear erosive herpes simplex virus: the 'knife-cut sign' in a patient on high-dose corticosteroids

Clinical And Experimental Dermatology — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Clinical And Experimental Dermatology)

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The effect of topical ocular corticosteroid administration in dogs with experimentally-induced latent canine herpesvirus-1 infection.

Experimental Eye Research — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Ledbetter EC, Kice NC, Matusow RB, Dubovi EJ, Kim SG Recurrent herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) ocular infection is a frequent cause of morbidity and blindness. Factors that trigger viral reactivation are poorly understood and the role of topical ocular corticosteroid administration in the development of recurrent HSV-1 ocular disease is not clear. Clinical reports and epidemiological studies suggested topical corticosteroids may reactivate latent HSV-1 and result in recrudescent ocular disease; however, experimental studies to establish this causal relationship produced inconsistent results. The previous experimental studies were performed by infecting unnatural host species with HSV-1 and aspects of viral behavior and reactivation within these animals may differ from the host ...

BioVex Initiates Phase 1 Clinical Trial With Its Genital Herpes Vaccine, ImmunoVEXHSV2

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

BioVex Inc, a private biotechnology company developing new generation biologics for the treatment of cancer and prevention of infectious disease, announced that the first subject had been dosed in the Phase 1 study of its live attenuated genital herpes vaccine, ImmunoVEXHSV2. The Phase 1 study is an open label ascending dose trial, assessing safety and immune response in healthy volunteers. The study is taking place in the UK at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London and will involve up to 42 already identified subjects. The principle investigator is Dr. Simon Barton... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

BioVex Initiates Phase 1 Clinical Trial With Its Genital Herpes Vaccine, ImmunoVEXHSV2

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100

BioVex Inc, a private biotechnology company developing new generation biologics for the treatment of cancer and prevention of infectious disease, announced that the first subject had been dosed in the Phase 1 study of its live attenuated genital herpes vaccine, ImmunoVEXHSV2. The Phase 1 study is an open label ascending dose trial, assessing safety and immune response in healthy volunteers... (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

The Term Newborn Potentially Exposed to Herpes Simplex Virus

Medscape Today Headlines — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 12:04:21 +0100

Immunocompromised patients, which include newborn infants, are at risk for herpes simplex virus (HSV). Learn more about how to prevent, diagnose, and treat HSV in newborns. Journal of Pediatric Health Care (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

[Comment] Treating HIV infection with drugs for HSV-2 infection?

LANCET — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This study was in HIV-1 discordant couples, and the primary objective was to directly assess the efficacy of suppressive therapy with aciclovir in reduction of onward transmission of HIV-1 from partners co-infected with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). In the past few years, other placebo-controlled trials have studied the effects of aciclovir or valaciclovir on HIV-1 transmissibility, with genital shedding of HIV-1 RNA as a proxy of transmissibility. In these trials, suppressive therapy of HSV-2 reduced genital shedding of HIV-1 RNA. However, the Partners in Prevention Study showed that suppressive therapy with aciclovir did not reduce onward transmission of HIV-1. (Source: LANCET)

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[Articles] Daily aciclovir for HIV-1 disease progression in people dually infected with HIV-1 and herpes simplex virus type 2: a randomised placebo-controlled trial

LANCET — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Most people infected with HIV-1 are dually infected with herpes simplex virus type 2. Daily suppression of this herpes virus reduces plasma HIV-1 concentrations, but whether it delays HIV-1 disease progression is unknown. We investigated the effect of aciclovir on HIV-1 progression. (Source: LANCET)

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Associated With Increased Risk of Stroke

Medscape Today Headlines — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 19:26:37 +0100

Patients diagnosed as having herpes zoster ophthalmicus had a more than 4-fold increased risk of stroke in this retrospective population-based study. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Memories that last forever: strategies for optimizing vaccine T-cell memory

Blood — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:00:45 +0100

The objective of an HIV-1 T-cell vaccine is to generate functional CD8+ effector memory cells at mucosal portals of virus entry to prevent viral transmission. In addition, long-lived CD8+ and CD4+ central memory cells circulating through secondary lymphoid organs and resident in bone marrow, respectively, are needed to provide a concerted second wave of defense that can contain virus at mucosal surfaces and prevent systemic dissemination. Further understanding of factors which can influence long-lived effector and central memory cell differentiation will significantly contribute to development of effective T-cell vaccines. In this review we will focus on discussing mechanisms involved in T-cell memory and provide promising new approaches toward expanding current vaccine strategies to enhan...

Natural killer cell cytotoxicity in patients with recurrent herpes infections: diagnostic utility of a flow cytometric assay

Journal of Clinical Pathology — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 15:42:49 +0100

Conclusions A deficiency of NK cell cytotoxicity has not been identified in this cohort. An apparent reduction in cytotoxicity may be due to normal interpersonal and intersample variability in NK cytotoxicity. Without reference ranges established from a large population of control samples to account for this, a reduction in PSC is difficult to define. Further studies are required to identify if a correlation exists between the percentage of NK cells and PSC. (Source: Journal of Clinical Pathology)

Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of acyclovir-resistant clinical isolates of herpes simplex virus.

Antiviral Research — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, further studies e.g. site-directed mutagenesis experiments are required to characterize mutations of the TK and DNA pol genes in ACV-resistant viral strains as part of viral gene polymorphism or as cause of drug resistance. PMID: 20211650 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Antiviral Research)

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Viral meningoencephalitis: a review of diagnostic methods and guidelines for management

European Journal of Neurology — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Background: Viral encephalitis is a medical emergency. The prognosis depends mainly on the pathogen and host immunologic state. Correct immediate diagnosis and introduction of symptomatic and specific therapy has a dramatic influence upon survival and reduces the extent of permanent brain injury.Methods: We searched the literature from 1966 to 2009. Recommendations were reached by consensus. Where there was lack of evidence but consensus was clear, we have stated our opinion as good practice points.Recommendations: Diagnosis should be based on medical history and examination followed by CSF analysis for protein and glucose levels, cellular analysis, and identification of the pathogen by polymerase chain reaction amplification (recommendation level A) and serology (level B). Neuroimaging, p...

Gertrude Elion - Pioneer of Cancer Drug Development

About.com Breast Cancer — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Gertrude B. Elion Photo © Official Nobel Prize Photo 1988 Women's History Month New York City welcomed Gertrude Elion into the world in 1918 on a freezing January night. She was the child of European immigrants who encouraged her to get a good education. Gertrude attended public school in the Bronx, and when it came time to choose a major for high school, she thought of her beloved grandfather. He had spent lots of time with her and her brother when they were small, and she stayed with him until he passed away of stomach cancer. She decided on chemistry, saying, "I had no specific bent toward science until my grandfather died of cancer. I decided nobody should suffer that much." Elion started at Hunter College in 1933, the year her grandfather died. The stock market had crashed...

Wegener’s granulomatosis: experience from a Brazilian tertiary center

Clinical Rheumatology — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:08:36 +0100

Abstract Most epidemiological studies with Wegener’s granulomatosis (WG) patients are based on populations from the Northern hemisphere, whereas very few studies have been conducted in Southern hemisphere populations, particularly from South America. The authors performed a large retrospective, demographic study including clinical and laboratory profiles of 134 consecutive WG patients seen at one Brazilian center from 1999 to 2009. Mean age at initial WG diagnosis was 43.4 ± 15.5 years, and mean disease duration was 8.6 ± 6.6 years. Sixty-four (47.8%) patients were male and a total of 113 (84.3%) subjects were white. Ear/nose/throat involvement occurred in 85.8%. The classic lung and renal involvement were observed in 77.6% and 75.4%, respectively, fol...

Studies of insect peptides alloferon, Any-GS and their analogues. Synthesis and antiherpes activity

Journal of Peptide Science — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The subject of these studies was synthesis and determination of biological properties of a series of insect peptides, such as alloferon, Any-GS and their analogues. The synthesis of 14 peptides was performed by the solid-phase method. Biological effect of these peptides was evaluated by the antiviral test against Human Herpes Virus type 1 (HHV-1) in vitro using a Vero cell line. It was found that the investigated peptides inhibit the replication of HHV-1 in Vero cells. Copyright © 2010 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. (Source: Journal of Peptide Science)

IV. Herpes zoster ophthalmicus mit gleichseitiger isolierter Abducenslähmung

Ophthalmologica — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Zeitschrift für Augenheilkunde 1910;23:522-524 (DOI:10.1159/000291937) (Source: Ophthalmologica)

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Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)

MedicineNet Skin General — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)Category: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 6/16/1999 7:38:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/25/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Skin General)

Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)

MedicineNet Crohn's Disease General — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)Category: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 6/16/1999 7:38:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/25/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Crohn's Disease General)

Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)

MedicineNet Senior Health General — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)Category: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 6/16/1999 7:38:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/25/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Senior Health General)

Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)Category: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 6/16/1999 7:38:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/25/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)

MedicineNet Womens Health General — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)Category: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 6/16/1999 7:38:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/25/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Womens Health General)

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Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Herpes Simplex Infections (Cold Sores, Non-Genital)Category: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 6/16/1999 7:38:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/25/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

Viruses and Arthritis: New Challenges in Diagnosis, Therapy, and Immunization.

The American Journal of the Medical Sciences — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:: Chronic viral infections complicate the diagnosis and therapy of inflammatory arthritis. The antitumor necrosis factor alpha biologics have become important therapeutic options for patients with hepatitis C. Vaccination against influenza and herpes zoster are underused in health maintenance of arthritis patients. PMID: 20186043 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of the Medical Sciences)

Expression, Purification of the UL3 Protein of Herpes Simplex Virus Type I, and Production of UL3 Polyclonal Antibody.

Journal of Virological Methods — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lin F, Ren X, Guo H, Ding Q, Zheng AC Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a common pathogen which causes infections of the mucocutaneous membranes. The UL3 protein belongs to a group of HSV-1 late proteins. To date, the function of the UL3 protein in cell culture, animal models, and natural infection is unknown. To investigate further the function of the UL3 protein, this study was undertaken to express the UL3 protein and raise a polyclonal antibody. The UL3 gene was cloned into the prokaryotic expression vector pET-28a (+) to yield pET-28a (+)-UL3. The His6-tagged UL3 protein was expressed in Escherichia coli(E. coli) BL21 (DE3) cells and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). After purification by nickel affinity chromatography ...

Increasing Incidence of Herpes Zoster among Veterans

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:53:17 +0100

Conclusion. The increasing incidence of herpes zoster in our veteran population and its effect on the quality of life of the veterans validate the need for improved rates of vaccination in this population. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Determinants of HIV Type 1 Shedding from Genital Ulcers among Men in South Africa

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:52:37 +0100

Conclusions. HIV‐positive men should be screened and treated for GUD to minimize HIV shedding and transmission to uninfected sexual partners. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

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Incomplete Financial Disclosures in an Editorial, Clinical Crossroads, and Reply Letter Related to Herpes Zoster [Letters]

JAMA — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:50:39 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

Incomplete Financial Disclosure in: A 70-Year-Old Woman With Shingles: Review of Herpes Zoster [Correction]

JAMA — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:50:39 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

Incomplete Financial Disclosure in: Herpes Zoster in the Age of Focused Immunosuppressive Therapy [Correction]

JAMA — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:50:39 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

Stereoselective Synthesis and Antiviral Activity of (1E,2Z,3E)-1-(Piperidin-1-yl)-1-(arylhydrazono)-2-[(benzoyl/benzothiazol- 2-oyl)hydrazono]-4-(aryl1)but-3-enes

Archiv der Pharmazie — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The reaction of benzoyl hydrazine 1a or benzothiazole-2-carbohydrazide 1b with 2-oxo-N-arylpropanehydrazonoyl chlorides 2a-d yielded (1Z,2E)-2-[(benzoyl/benzothiazol-2-oyl)hydrazono]-N-(aryl)propanehydrazonoyl chlorides 3a-e. The reaction of 3a-c with sodium benzenesulphinate furnished sulphones 5a-c while the reaction of 5d, e with hydroxyl amine afforded hydroxomoyl derivatives 6a, b. The one-pot sterioselective reaction of N-(aryl)propanehydrazonoyl chlorides 3 with certain aromatic aldehydes in the presence of piperidine resulted in the formation of (1E,2Z,3E)-1-(piperidin-1-yl)-1-(arylhydrazono)-2-[(benzoyl/benzothiazol-2-oyl)hydrazono]-4-(aryl1)-but-3-enes 7a-g. X-ray analysis of piperidinyl amidrazone 7g showed a conversion of its geometrical structure with respect to that of compou...

Dendritic cell physiology and function in the eye

Immunological Reviews — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Summary: The eye and the brain are immunologically privileged sites, a property previously attributed to the lack of a lymphatic circulation. However, recent tracking studies confirm that these organs have good communication through classical site-specific lymph nodes, as well as direct connection through the blood circulation with the spleen. In addition, like all tissues, they contain resident myeloid cell populations that play important roles in tissue homeostasis and the response to foreign antigens. Most of the macrophage and dendritic cell (DC) populations in the eye are restricted to the supporting connective tissues, including the cornea, while the neural tissue (the retina) contains almost no DCs, occasional macrophages (perivascularly distributed), and a specialized myeloid cell ...

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Prevention of ulcerative lesions by episodic treatment of recurrent herpes labialis: a literature review.

Acta Derm Venereol A... — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 21:21:39 +0100

Authors: Harmenberg J, Oberg B, Spruance S There are substantial difficulties involved in carrying out clinical studies of recurrent herpes labialis, since the disease has a rapid onset, short-lasting viral shedding period and is rapidly self-healing. The aim of this paper was to critically assess published reports of episodic treatment of herpes labialis and to review biological and methodological problems involved in such studies. Limited, but statistically significant, results have been shown with topical antivirals, such as acyclovir and penciclovir, improving healing times by approximately 10%. Orally administrated antivirals, such as valaciclovir and famciclovir, have subsequently found clinical use. However, these two oral medications have different profiles in phase 3 studies. ...

Cytomegalovirus Pneumonia: Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Immunocompetent Hosts

Infectious Diseases Clinics of North America — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 14:35:42 +0100

This article discusses the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and therapy for this viral CAP. (Source: Infectious Diseases Clinics of North America)

Human antibodies to herpes simplex virus type 1 glycoprotein C are neutralizing and target the heparan sulfate-binding domain.

Virology — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Adamiak B, Trybala E, Mardberg K, Johansson M, Liljeqvist JA, Olofsson S, Grabowska A, Bienkowska-Szewczyk K, Szewczyk B, Bergstrom T Human antibodies specific for glycoprotein C (gC1) of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) neutralized the virus infectivity and efficiently inhibited attachment of HSV-1 to human HaCaT keratinocytes and to murine mutant L cells expressing either heparan sulfate or chondroitin sulfate at the cell surface. Similar activities were observed with anti-gC1 monoclonal antibody B1C1. In addition to HaCaT and L cells, B1C1 antibody neutralized HSV-1 infectivity in simian GMK AH1 cells mildly pre-treated with heparinase III. Human anti-gC1 antibodies efficiently competed with the binding of gC1 to B1C1 antibody whose epitope overlaps a part of the attachm...

CT and MRI Findings of Human Herpesvirus 6-Associated Encephalopathy: Comparison With Findings of Herpes Simplex Virus Encephalitis

American Journal of Roentgenology — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 21:02:50 +0100

CONCLUSION. Serial MRI showed transient abnormal signal intensity in the mesial temporal lobes in patients with HHV-6 encephalopathy but persistent abnormal signal intensity in both the mesial temporal lobes and the extratemporal regions in patients with HSE. CT in the early period showed no abnormality in patients with HHV-6 encephalopathy but definite abnormal findings in patients with HSE. These differences may be useful in the differential diagnosis of the two conditions. (Source: American Journal of Roentgenology)

The management of infants and children treated with aciclovir for suspected viral encephalitis

Archives of Disease in Childhood — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 09:09:56 +0100

Conclusions The management of children with suspected viral encephalitis appears haphazard in many cases. Guidelines for the management of children with suspected viral encephalitis are needed. (Source: Archives of Disease in Childhood)

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Study Suggests Aciclovir May Slow HIV-1 Disease Progression in People Coinfected with HIV-1 and HSV-2

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

“Most people infected with HIV-1 are dually infected with herpes simplex virus type 2. Daily suppression of this herpes virus reduces plasma HIV-1 concentrations, but whether it delays HIV-1 disease progression is unknown. We investigated the effect of aciclovir on HIV-1 progression. … In a trial with 14 sites in southern Africa and east Africa, 3381 heterosexual people who were dually infected with herpes simplex virus type 2 and HIV-1 were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to aciclovir 400 mg orally twice daily or placebo, and were followed up for up to 24 months. Eligible participants had CD4 cell counts of 250 cells per muL or higher and were not taking antiretroviral therapy. … Effect of aciclovir on HIV-1 disease progression was defined by a primary composite endpoint of first o...

A highly lipophilic sulfated tetrasaccharide glycoside related to muparfostat (PI-88) exhibits virucidal activity against herpes simplex virus.

Antiviral Research — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Ekblad M, Adamiak B, Bergstrom T, Johnstone KD, Karoli T, Liu L, Ferro V, Trybala E Although sulfated polysaccharides potently inhibit the infectivity of herpes simplex virus (HSV) and human immunodeficiency virus in cultured cells, these compounds fail to show protective effects in humans, most likely due to their poor virucidal activity. Herein we report on sulfated oligosaccharide glycosides related to muparfostat (formerly known as PI-88) and their assessment for anti-HSV activity. Chemical modifications based on the introduction of specific hydrophobic groups at the reducing end of a sulfated oligosaccharide chain enhanced the compound's capability to inhibit the infection of cells by HSV-1 and HSV-2 and abrogated the cell-to-cell transmission of HSV-2. Furthermore, modif...

Medivir partners with Meda to commercialize Xerese(TM) (Lipsovir(R)) in North America

HSMN NewsFeed — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:26:49 +0100

Huddinge, Sweden, 18 February, 2010 - (HSMN NewsFeed) - Medivir (STO: MVIR-B) and Meda (STO: MEDA-A; Nasdaq OMX Nordic Exchange: MEDA-ST) today announced an agreement for the commercialization of Medivirs cold sore product (formerly Lipsovir(R)), which wi... BiopharmaceuticalsMedivir, Meda , Xerese, acyclovir, hydrocortisone, herpes labialis (Source: HSMN NewsFeed)

Research Suggests Herpes Drug May Help Fight HIV

About AIDS / HIV — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

There is new research that suggests that people infected with both HIV and Herpes Simplex type 2 may benefit more than expected from taking the anti-herpes drug Acyclovir. In addition to treating the herpes, studies now provide evidence that the drug also slows the progression of HIV in people living with both viruses. The study, co-authored by Dr. Jairam Lingappa, of the University of Washington, showed a 16% decline in HIV progression in those people taking Acyclovir for their herpes. Experts remind us that HIV specific medications do a far better job of slowing HIV than does Acyclovir but suggested that the anti-herpes medication could be useful in those people who have not progressed so far that they need HIV medication. Related Herpes Information Understanding Genital Herpes A...

Distinct effects of knocking down MEK1 and MEK2 on replication of Herpes Simplex Virus type 2.

Virus Research — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This study also suggests that MEK1 could be a potential target for anti-HSV-2 therapy, which may minimize damage to the host cells engendered by targeting both MEK1 and MEK2. PMID: 20172001 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Virus Research)

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A Boy Unable to Move His Arm

Clinical Pediatrics — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 07:22:39 +0100

An 11-year-old boy presented with inability to move his right arm, back and neck pain, and fever. He has a history of recurrent vesicular rash on his face three times over the past two years. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed diffuse expansile cervical cord, leading to a diagnosis of transverse myelitis. After 3 days of intravenous solumedrol, the patient was discharged, but returned the following day with a vesicular rash to the right arm, as well as vomiting, malaise and diffuse pruritus.Wright-Giemsa stain of the vesicles revealed herpes group virus and culture was positive for herpes simplex type 1. (Source: Clinical Pediatrics)

Detailed Characterization of T Cell Responses to Herpes Simplex Virus-2 in Immune Seronegative Persons.

Journal of Immunology — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This report characterizes the T cell responses in 22 IS subjects largely recruited from studies of HSV-seronegative subjects in ongoing sexual relationships with HSV-2-seropositive (HSV-2(+)) partners using pools of overlapping peptides spanning 16 immuno-prevalent HSV-2 proteins. Overall, 77% of IS subjects had HSV-specific LP responses, 85% had IFN-gamma ELISPOT responses to at least one HSV-2 peptide pool, and 55% had both LP and IFN-gamma ELISPOT responses. In some cases, IFN-gamma ELISPOT responses were in excess of 500 spot-forming cells per 10(6) PBMCs and persisted for over 5 y. Although HSV-2(+) subjects (n = 40) had frequent responses to glycoproteins and tegument and immediate-early (IE) proteins of HSV-2, T cell responses in IS subjects were directed primarily at UL39 and the I...

Study of the Efficacy, Biodistribution, and Safety Profile of Therapeutic Gutless Adenovirus Vectors as a Prelude to a Phase I Clinical Trial for Glioblastoma.

Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Muhammad AK, Puntel M, Candolfi M, Salem A, Yagiz K, Farrokhi C, Kroeger KM, Xiong W, Curtin JF, Liu C, Lawrence K, Bondale NS, Lerner J, Baker GJ, Foulad D, Pechnick RN, Palmer D, Ng P, Lowenstein PR, Castro MG Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and most aggressive primary brain tumor in humans. Systemic immunity against gene therapy vectors has been shown to hamper therapeutic efficacy; however, helper-dependent high-capacity adenovirus (HC-Ad) vectors elicit sustained transgene expression, even in the presence of systemic anti-adenoviral immunity. We engineered HC-Ads encoding the conditional cytotoxic herpes simplex type 1 thymidine kinase (TK) and the immunostimulatory cytokine fms-like tyrosine kinase ligand 3 (Flt3L). Flt3L expression is under the control ...

The glycoproteins C and G are equivalent target antigens for the determination of herpes simplex virus type 1-specific antibodies.

Journal of Virological Methods — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Scheper T, Saschenbrecker S, Steinhagen K, Sauerbrei A, Suer W, Meyer W, Schlumberger W, Wandinger KP Seroreactivity to the glycoproteins C and G of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) was compared in 310 serum samples using a Western blot assay containing a whole antigen extract of HSV-1 and an ELISA employing gC1 isolated from HSV-1. The prevalence of reactivity to gC1 was 75.8% by Western blot and 73.9% by ELISA, while antibody responses to gG1 were detected in 72.9% of sera by Western blot. An absolute correlation of 96.1% between the reactivity to gC1 and gG1 was demonstrated using the Western blot. The gC1-based ELISA correlated with Western blot detection of anti-gC1 and anti-gG1 antibodies in 95.2% and 97.7% of samples, respectively. 3.2% of all sera were reactive with...

Carotid Plaque Thickness Tied to Past Infections

Medscape Medical News Headlines — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 18:32:18 +0100

Past or chronic exposure to five common infections -- Chlamydia pneumoniae, Helicobacter pylori, cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 and HSV-2 - seems to be associated with atherosclerotic plaque buildup in the carotid arteries, which raises the risk of stroke, according to a report in the March issue of Stroke. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Medical News Headlines)

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Treating Herpes in Patients Coinfected With HIV May Delay HIV Progression

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 17:56:46 +0100

In a randomized trial, treatment of herpes simplex type 2 in patients coinfected with herpes and HIV appeared to delay HIV disease progression. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Teva Pharmaceutical Settles Lawsuit With Novartis

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 15:08:51 +0100

From Associated Press (February 16, 2010) NEW YORK -- Teva Pharmaceutical said its U.S. unit has settled a patent dispute over a herpes treatment made by Novartis. Teva launched a generic version of the drug Famvir in 2007. Under the agreement... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

Teva Pharmaceutical Settles Lawsuit with Novartis

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 15:03:40 +0100

Linear scalp plaques

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 14:09:40 +0100

An 88-year-old white man presented to our department for the evaluation of multiple scalp lesions of relatively recent onset. There was no pertinent family history. He denied trauma to the area, ever having been diagnosed with an infection of the area caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) or varicella zoster virus (VZV), and ever having received radiation therapy. The physical examination revealed multiple indurated, red, and slightly violaceous plaques and nodules on the scalp in a strikingly linear pattern. The collection of tumors covered a 9 cm × 3 cm area on the right forehead, frontal scalp, and parietal scalp (). There was no clinical lymphadenopathy. Review by a dermatopathologist yielded a diagnosis of malignant epithelioid neoplasm, and additional special stains were performed. I...

Herpes Drug Might Also Slow HIV Progression

MedicineNet HIV General — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Herpes Drug Might Also Slow HIV ProgressionCategory: Health NewsCreated: 2/15/2010 8:10:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 2/16/2010 (Source: MedicineNet HIV General)

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Herpes Drug Might Also Slow HIV Progression

MedicineNet Womens Health General — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Herpes Drug Might Also Slow HIV ProgressionCategory: Health NewsCreated: 2/15/2010 8:10:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 2/16/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Womens Health General)

Comparison of focus HerpesSelect and Kalon HSV-2 gG2 ELISA serological assays to detect herpes simplex virus type 2 antibodies in a South African population

Sexually Transmitted Infections — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:07:27 +0100

Conclusion Newer HSV-2 serological tests have low specificity in this South African population with a high HIV-1 prevalence. Two-step testing strategies could provide rational testing alternatives to Western blot. (Source: Sexually Transmitted Infections)

Daily aciclovir reduces HIV-1 disease progression in people dually infected with HIV-1 and herpes simplex virus type 2

NeLM - News — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: Lancet Area: News In light of the fact that most patients infected with HIV-1 are dually infected with herpes simplex virus type 2, and the daily suppression of this herpes virus reduces plasma HIV-1 concentrations, researchers sought to evaluate whether aciclovir delayes HIV-1 progression. Their research published has been published early online in the Lancet. The double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involved 3381 patients dually infected with herpes simplex virus type 2 and HIV-1, and who were randomised to receive acyclovir 400mg twice daily or placebo, and were followed up for up to 24 months. Eligible participants had CD4 cell counts of 250 cells per microlitres or higher and were not taking antiretroviral therapy. The effect of aciclovir on HIV-1 disease progres...

Single-dose Pharmacokinetics of Famciclovir in Infants and Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis in Infants and Children.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Blumer J, Rodriguez A, Sánchez PJ, Sallas W, Kaiser G, Hamed K A multicenter, open-label, study evaluated single-dose pharmacokinetics and safety of a pediatric oral famciclovir (prodrug of penciclovir) formulation in infants aged 1 to 12 months with suspicion or evidence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. Individualized single doses of famciclovir based on the infant's body weight ranged from 25 to 175 mg. Eighteen infants were enrolled (1 to <3 months [n = 8], 3 to <6 months [n = 5], and 6 to 12 months [n = 5]). Seventeen infants were included in the pharmacokinetic analysis; one infant experienced immediate emesis and was excluded. Mean Cmax and AUC0-6h values of penciclovir in infants <6 months of age were approximately 3- to 4-fold lower vs. those in t...

Successful Treatment of Acyclovir-Resistant Herpes Simplex Virus With Intralesional Cidofovir [The Cutting Edge]

Archives of Dermatology — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 20:50:42 +0100

(Source: Archives of Dermatology)

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Oncolysis Using Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Engineered to Express Cytosine Deaminase and a Fusogenic Glycoprotein for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma [Original Article]

Archives of Otolaryngology — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 20:50:39 +0100

Conclusions OncoVEXGALV/CD efficiently infects, replicates within, and lyses head and neck squamous cell carcinoma at relatively low viral doses. Prodrug conversion by cytosine deaminase did not enhance therapy at viral doses that cause efficient cytotoxicity but may have beneficial effects in less-sensitive cell lines at low viral doses. (Source: Archives of Otolaryngology)

Towards an Understanding of the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Latency-Reactivation Cycle

Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:27:21 +0100

Infection by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) can cause clinical symptoms in the peripheral and central nervous system. Recurrent ocular shedding can lead to corneal scarring and vision loss making HSV-1 a leading cause of corneal blindness due to an infectious agent. The primary site of HSV-1 latency is sensory neurons within trigeminal ganglia. Periodically, reactivation from latency occurs resulting in virus transmission and recurrent disease. During latency, the latency-associated transcript (LAT) is abundantly expressed. LAT expression is important for the latency-reactivation cycle in animal models, in part, because it inhibits apoptosis, viral gene expression, and productive infection. A novel transcript within LAT coding sequences (AL3) and small nonprotein coding RNAs are also ...

Herpes Drug Might Also Slow HIV Progression

MedlinePlus Health News — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:00:00 +0100

But acyclovir is not a replacement for HIV-specific drugs, researchers say Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Topics: AIDS, Herpes Simplex (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Treatment For Herpes Could Delay HIV Disease Progression In Patients Infected With Both Herpes And HIV

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

An article published Online First and in an upcoming edition of The Lancet reports that recent research indicates that aciclovir, used to treat HSV2, could delay HIV-1 disease progression in patients co-infected with both conditions. In most cases, people who are infected with HIV-1 are dually infected with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV2). The article is the work of Dr Jairam Lingappa, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA, and colleagues in Africa and internationally. It is established that daily suppression of the herpes virus reduces plasma HIV-1 concentrations... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Treatment For Herpes Could Delay HIV Disease Progression In Patients Infected With Both Herpes And HIV

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

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Herpes drug 'delays' HIV illness

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:31:25 +0100

A cheap, widely-used treatment for herpes can delay the need for HIV drugs in people with both infections, say US researchers. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Treating Herpes May Slow HIV in Co-Infected Patients

Modern Medicine — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In patients co-infected with HIV-1 and herpes simplex virus type 2, treating the herpes infection with acyclovir likely delays the progression of HIV, according to a study published online Feb. 15 in The Lancet. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Herpes drug could delay progession of HIV illness

Daily Express - Health — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

A COMMON drug used to treat herpes could also slow the progression of HIV. (Source: Daily Express - Health)

Recurrent vaginal shedding of herpes simplex type 2 virus in the mouse and effects of antiviral therapy.

Antiviral Research — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Farley N, Bernstein DI, Bravo FJ, Earwood J, Sawtell N, Cardin RD A mouse model of recurrent herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) would improve our understanding of the immunobiology of recurrent disease and provide a useful model for evaluating antiviral treatments. We developed a model to evaluate recurrent vaginal HSV-2 shedding using high dose Acyclovir (ACV) therapy begun at 3 days post infection (dpi). Treatment with 150mg/kg of ACV for 10 days increased survival to 80% following vaginal challenge with HSV-2 strain 186 and to 100% after challenge with strain MS. We then evaluated recurrent vaginal HSV-2 shedding in surviving mice. Although infectious virus was not detected in vaginal samples after 21 dpi, viral DNA was detectable by PCR in 80% of mice (47/59) on at least one da...

Herpes Therapy Slows HIV Progression (CME/CE)

MedPage Today State Required CME — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 22:43:15 +0100

Treating herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) slows the progression of HIV in people infected with both, researchers have found. (Source: MedPage Today State Required CME)

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A signal amplification assay for HSV type 1 viral DNA detection using nanoparticles and direct acoustic profiling

Journal of Nanobiotechnology — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: An analytical model was developed to determine optimal nanoparticle diameter, concentration and probe density, which allowed efficient and rapid optimisation of assay parameters. Numerical analysis and subsequent associated experimental data suggests that the response of the mass sensitive biosensor system used in conjunction with captured particles was affected by i) the coupled mass of the particle, ii) the proximal contact area between the particle and the sensor surface and iii) the available capture area on the particle and binding dynamics to this capture area. The latter two effects had more impact on the detection limit of the system than any potential enhancement due to added mass from a larger nanoparticle. (Source: Journal of Nanobiotechnology)

Trigeminal herpes zoster and Ramsay Hunt Syndrome with a lesion in the spinal trigeminal nucleus and tract

Journal of Neurology — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 06:46:15 +0100

We report the case of a 77-year-old immuno-competent man who developed herpes zoster in the maxillary and mandibular branches of the trigeminal nerve. Within 3 weeks, he developed ipsilateral peripheral facial palsy, hearing loss, vesicles over the external auditory canal, and pain in the face and ear. A T2-weighted MRI of the brain revealed a hyper-intense lesion at the right medulla corresponding to the spinal trigeminal nucleus and tract. Gadolinium enhancement was seen over the right facial nerve. These lesions suggest a possibility of transaxonal spread of the varicella zoster virus between the trigeminal nerve, the facial nerve, and the spinal trigeminal nucleus and tract. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the editorsDOI 10.1007/s00415-010-5487-6Authors Ch...

Treating Herpes Does Not Reduce HIV Transmission, Study Finds

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

Treating herpes in HIV-positive patients does not lower the risk that they will transmit HIV to their partners, despite the fact that herpes treatment has been shown to lower the level of HIV in the blood, according to a study published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine, the New York Times reports. Scientists are unsure why the herpes drug acyclovir lowers the level of HIV in the blood... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Treating Herpes Does Not Reduce HIV Transmission, Study Finds

Sexual Health / STDs News From Medical News Today — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

Treating herpes in HIV-positive patients does not lower the risk that they will transmit HIV to their partners, despite the fact that herpes treatment has been shown to lower the level of HIV in the blood, according to a study published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine, the New York Times reports... (Source: Sexual Health / STDs News From Medical News Today)

[Case Report] Loss of vision? Clear as crystal!

LANCET — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In January, 2008, an 84-year-old woman presented with a 1-year history of painless progressive whitening of the pupil and reduced vision in her left eye. She also complained of tiredness, loss of appetite, and over 6 kg weight loss during the previous year. She had had uneventful left extracapsular cataract extraction with posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) implantation 15 years previously and right phacoemulsification with PC-IOL three years later. In 2005 she had an episode of uncomplicated left herpes zoster ophthalmicus that was treated with famciclovir. Other medical history included insulin-treated type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and left mastectomy followed by radiotherapy for breast carcinoma in 2004. On examination, her left visual acuity was reduced (6/18). The eye was no...

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Fatal herpetic encephalitis during brain radiotherapy in a cerebral metastasized breast cancer patient

Journal of Neuro-Oncology — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 11:49:30 +0100

We present the case of a 55-year-old female who developed HSE type 1 during brain irradiation and antioedematous dexamethasone treatment for leptomeningeal metastasized breast tumor with epileptic seizures. During the radiotherapy (RT), after a total of 32 Gray administrated in 16 fractions, our patient developed cognitive impairment and partial epileptic status without fever. Two days later the patient’s clinical conditions had deteriorated and high fever manifested. A diagnosis of HSE type 1 was made by a positive cerebrospinal fluid polymerase chain reaction. Antiviral therapy with high doses of acyclovir was practiced for four weeks but the comatose state persisted. The patient died 59 days after the last RT fraction. The temporal relationship of RT to the occurrence ...

Also In Global Health News: Pakistan IDPs; HIV And Herpes; Ending FGM; WFP Budget In Afghanistan; Cholera In PNG

Sexual Health / STDs News From Medical News Today — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:00:00 +0100

Also In Global Health News: Pakistan IDPs; HIV And Herpes; Ending FGM; WFP Budget In Afghanistan; Cholera In PNG

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:00:00 +0100

U.N. Launches $538M Aid Appeal For Displaced Persons In Pakistan The U.N. launched an international appeal Tuesday, calling for $538 million to provide aid in Pakistan for "hundreds of thousands of people displace[d] by army clashes against the Taliban," the Associated Press/Washington Post reports (Toosi, 2/9). Agence France-Presse writes: "The appeal focuses on funds needed to implement the Pakistan Humanitarian Response Plan (PHRP) 2010, which the United Nations, international and local aid groups have drawn up with the cash-strapped Pakistan government... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

South Africa: Herpes Treatment Not Effective in Reducing HIV Infection

AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:46:04 +0100

Treating herpes does not reduce the risk of transmitting HIV, a New England Journal of Medicine study has found. The anti-herpes medication is dispensed from all South African Primary Healthcare clinics in the public sector and has been added to the sexually transmitted infection treatment guidelines. (Source: AllAfrica News: HIV-Aids and STDs)

Global Update: H.I.V. and Herpes: Treating Herpes Doesn’t Reduce Chance That AIDS Virus Will Spread, Study Finds

NYT > Health — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:18:31 +0100

The herpes drug acyclovir lowered H.I.V. levels in the blood but did not make a person less likely to spread the AIDS virus, researchers said. (Source: NYT > Health)

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Hexokinase II gene transfer protects against neurodegeneration in the rotenone and MPTP mouse models of Parkinson's disease

Journal of Neuroscience Research — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

A typical feature of Parkinson's disease is the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, in which inhibition of mitochondrial complex I activity may play an important role. Rotenone or 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) inhibit the mitochondrial complex I and they cause the death of substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons, thereby providing acute murine models of Parkinson's disease. We have found that increasing mitochondrial hexokinase II activity can prevent cell death in neuronal cultures treated with rotenone. As a result, we have studied the effects of hexokinase II gene transfer in vivo using a herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) amplicon vector. The placHK2 amplicon vector was injected into substantia nigra of mice that were subsequently admi...

Virus particle maturation: insights into elegantly programmed nanomachines.

Current Opinion in Structural Biology — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Johnson JE Similar modes of virus maturation have been observed in dsDNA bacteriophages and the structurally related herpes viruses and some type of maturation occur in most animal viruses. Recently a variety of biophysical studies of maturation intermediates of bacteriophages P22, lambda, and HK97 have suggested an energy landscape that drives the transitions and structure-based mechanisms for its formation. Near-atomic resolution models of subunit tertiary structures in an early intermediate of bacteriophage HK97 maturation revealed a remarkable distortion of the secondary structures when compared to the mature particle. Scaffolding proteins may induce the distortion that is maintained by quaternary structure interactions following scaffold release, making the intermediate p...

Diagnostic Testing for Encephalitis, Part II

Clinical Microbiology Newsletter — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:49:22 +0100

Abstract: Encephalitis is characterized by both its pleomorphic clinical presentation and its diagnostic challenges. Fever, headache, and alteration of consciousness are classically present, however, the diversity of neurological symptoms can make it difficult to distinguish encephalitis from other infectious and non-infectious central nervous system conditions. Identification of a specific pathogen has important therapeutic and prognostic implications for an individual patient and has broader public health significance in potentially identifying a need for prophylaxis of contacts or environmental control of arthropod vectors. In Part I of this article, the basic features of encephalitis and aspects of diagnostic testing for encephalitis caused by herpes simplex virus, the non-simplex...

Efficacy of Continuous Acyclovir Infusion in Neonatal Herpes Virus Encephalitis

Neuropediatrics — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:49:48 +0100

This report demonstrates the efficacy of continuous acyclovir infusion in neonatal herpes simplex virus encephalitis.[...]© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New YorkGet connected:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: Neuropediatrics)

Effects of herbal medicinal formulas on suppressing viral replication and modulating immune responses.

The American Journal of Chinese Medicine — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 23:12:03 +0100

This study tests whether these and other Chinese and Western herbal medicinal formulas can modulate the immune functions involving virus-suppression in BALB/c mouse. We first confirmed the extract from Viola yedoensis Makino, but not from Radix Isatidis, the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula Chui-Uren-Chien (CUC), or a Western homeopathic medicinal drink Método Canova, could inhibit the replications of herpes simplex virus-1 and enterovirus 71 in the human neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cell line. Subsequently, the same herbal extracts and drink underwent toxicity and immunomodulatory tests on mice of 5-7 weeks old. After 8 weeks of feeding different herbal medicinal formulas, no hepatic or renal toxicity was noted in any tested animal; whereas among the immune function evaluations, o...

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Combination gene therapy of lung cancer with conditionally replicating adenovirus and adenovirus-herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase.

International Journal of Molecular Medicine — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:48:41 +0100

Authors: Oh JY, Park MY, Kim DR, Lee JH, Shim SH, Chung JH, Yoon HI, Lee JH, Sung MW, Kim YS, Lee CT A major obstacle to the success of gene therapy strategies that directly target cancer cells is the low gene transfer rate. To address this problem, we had previously proposed a combination adenoviral gene therapy containing a conditionally replicating adenovirus (CRAD) expressing mutant E1 (Delta24RGD), and a replication-defective E1-deleted adenovirus to enhance the efficiency of gene transfer. Suicide/pro-drug gene therapy has an important additional benefit to the therapy of cancer. This relates to the transfer and expression of non-mammalian genes encoding enzymes that convert non-toxic pro-drugs into cellular toxins. We investigated the interaction between CRAD (Delta24RGD) and a ...

Solvent-induced virus inactivation by acidic arginine solution.

International Journal of Molecular Medicine — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:48:19 +0100

Authors: Tsujimoto K, Uozaki M, Ikeda K, Yamazaki H, Utsunomiya H, Ichinose M, Koyama AH, Arakawa T Viral clearance is a primary concern for parenteral protein biopharmaceuticals. Low pH, detergent/solvent wash, or heating, called pasteurization, has been the main process for virus inactivation. Detergent/solvent wash is also used to treat superficial infectious diseases, including herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections. Herein we examined virus inactivation effects of acidic arginine on HSV type 2 (HSV-2) as a function of pH and temperature in an attempt to find solvent conditions that are effective for virus inactivation, yet are compatible with in vivo applications. Aqueous arginine at 0.7 M was highly effective on HSV-2, more so at lower pH and higher temperature. Its effects were s...

Antiviral effect of pyridinium formate, a novel component of coffee extracts.

International Journal of Molecular Medicine — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:48:11 +0100

Authors: Tsujimoto K, Sakuma C, Uozaki M, Yamasaki H, Utsunomiya H, Oka K, Koyama AH N-methyl-pyridinium formate, a novel component of coffee extracts, inhibited the multiplication of both DNA and RNA viruses. In the presence of the compound, the progeny viral yields of both herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and poliovirus in HEp-2 cells and those of influenza virus type A in MDCK cells decreased with increasing concentrations of the compound, although the degree of viral sensitivity to this compound differed. In addition, none of these viruses were directly inactivated by the compound at the concentrations tested. Characterization of the mode of action of this compound against HSV-1 multiplication revealed that it inhibits the viral growth primarily at the initial step of virus mult...

Highly selective fusion and accumulation of Hybrid Liposomes into Primary Effusion Lymphoma cells along with induction of apoptosis.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research communications — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Towata T, Komizu Y, Suzu S, Ueoka R, Okada S Primary Effusion Lymphoma (PEL) is an aggressive neoplasm caused by human herpes virus 8 infection, and is generally resistant to chemotherapy. Hybrid Liposomes, composed of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) and polyoxyethylene (21) dodecyl ether (C(12)(EO)(21)) (HL-21), were rapidly accumulated in the membrane of PEL cells. HL-21 also increased membrane fluidity of PEL cells, and induced caspase-3 activation along with cell death. These results suggest that HL-21 should be an effective and attractive regent for PEL treatment. PMID: 20138834 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Biochemical and Biophysical Research communications)

Chromatin dynamics during herpes simplex virus-1 lytic infection.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Placek BJ, Berger SL Herpes simplex virus type 1 is a DNA virus that can establish lytic infections in epithelial cells and latent infections in sensory neurons. Upon entry into the nucleus the genome of HSV-1 rapidly associates with histone proteins. Similar to the genomes of the cellular host, HSV-1 is subject to chromatin-based regulation of transcription and replication. However, unlike the host genome, nucleosomes appear to be underrepresented on the HSV genome. During lytic infection, when the genome is transcribed, the HSV-1 chromatin structure appears to be disorganized, and characterized by histone variant sub-types and post-translational modifications representative of active chromatin. In contrast, during latency, when the majority of the viral genome is transcripti...

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Cell-Culture And Animal Tests Show Antiviral Could Provide Protection Against HIV, Ebola, Hepatitis C, Herpes And More

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

The development of antibiotics gave physicians seemingly miraculous weapons against infectious disease. Effective cures for terrible afflictions like pneumonia, syphilis and tuberculosis were suddenly at hand. Moreover, many of the drugs that made them possible were versatile enough to knock out a wide range of deadly bacterial threats. Unfortunately, antibiotics have a fundamental limitation: They're useless against viruses, which cause most infectious diseases... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Cell-Culture And Animal Tests Show Antiviral Could Provide Protection Against HIV, Ebola, Hepatitis C, Herpes And More

Liver Disease / Hepatitis News From Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

The development of antibiotics gave physicians seemingly miraculous weapons against infectious disease. Effective cures for terrible afflictions like pneumonia, syphilis and tuberculosis were suddenly at hand. Moreover, many of the drugs that made them possible were versatile enough to knock out a wide range of deadly bacterial threats... (Source: Liver Disease / Hepatitis News From Medical News Today)

World Cancer Day 2010

About.com Cancer — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

February 4th marks World Cancer Day, a day that bring global awareness to the disease. This year's theme is "Cancer Can Be Prevented Too" and focuses on the avoiding the common causes of cancer. This is an increased concentration this year of raising awareness about infections that cause cancer. One of the first cancer causing infection that comes to mind is HPV, which is implicated in the development of cervical cancer and also oral cancer. HPV is a suspected cause of other types of cancer as well and it's role is being researched. HIV and Hepatitis are two other viral infections that can increase your risk of developing cancer. Less common infections like the Epstein-Barr virus, Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpes virus, and Human T-lymphotrophic virus-1. Cancer remains a global leading c...

A Placebo-Controlled Trial of Oral Cladribine for Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis

New England Journal of Medicine — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this 96-week, placebo-controlled trial, oral cladribine reduced relapse rates and lowered the risk of sustained disability in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Patients who were treated with cladribine had large reductions in lymphocyte counts and more infections, including herpes zoster and one death from reactivation of tuberculosis. (Source: New England Journal of Medicine)

Acyclovir and Transmission of HIV-1 from Persons Infected with HIV-1 and HSV-2

New England Journal of Medicine — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Suppressive therapy for herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) has also been shown to reduce the levels of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). However, in this placebo-controlled trial involving 3408 African couples who were discordant in serologic status for these two viruses, daily treatment with acyclovir did not reduce the frequency of HIV-1 transmission, despite a reduction in HIV-1 RNA levels and a 73% reduction in the occurrence of HSV-2-positive genital ulcers. (Source: New England Journal of Medicine)

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The clinical course of idiopathic acute transverse myelitis in patients from Rio de Janeiro

Journal of Neurology — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:47:30 +0100

This study suggests some new aspects of the clinical course of IATM such as the high conversion rate to NMO, the predominance of women and a higher frequency of recurrent forms. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationDOI 10.1007/s00415-009-5450-6Authors Marina Papais Alvarenga, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro Departamento de Neurologia Rua Mariz e Barros 775, Tijuca Rio de Janeiro 20270-004 BrazilLuiz Claudio Santos Thuler, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro Departamento de Neurologia Rua Mariz e Barros 775, Tijuca Rio de Janeiro 20270-004 BrazilSilvio Peçanha Neto, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro Departamento de Neurologia Rua Mariz e Barros 775, Tijuca Rio de Janeiro 20270-004 BrazilClaudia Cristina Ferreira Vasco...

Viral infections associated with haemophagocytic syndrome

Reviews in Medical Virology — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Haemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) or haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare disease caused by a dysfunction of cytotoxic T cells and NK cells. This T cell/NK cell dysregulation causes an aberrant cytokine release, resulting in proliferation/activation of histiocytes with subsequent haemophagocytosis. Histiocytic infiltration of the reticuloendothelial system results in hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, lymphadenopathy and pancytopenia ultimately leading to multiple organ dysfunctions. Common clinical features include high fevers despite broad spectrum antimicrobials, maculopapular rash, neurological symptoms, coagulopathy and abnormal liver function tests. Haemophagocytic syndrome can be either primary, i.e. due to an underlying genetic defect or secondary, associated with malignancies...

Transgene-mediated GDNF expression enhances synaptic connectivity and GABA transmission to improve functional outcome after spinal cord contusion

Journal of Neurochemistry — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

J. Neurochem. (2010) 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2010.06593.x Glial cell line-derived trophic factor (GDNF) is a peptide with pleiotropic survival and growth-promoting effects on neurons. We found that intraspinal injection of a non-replicating herpes simplex virus-based vector coding for GDNF 2 h after blunt trauma to the thoraco-lumbar spinal cord produced sustained improvement in motor behavioral outcomes up to 5 weeks following injury. The improvement in behavior correlated with an increase in synaptophysin and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) in the spinal cord at the level of injury. Addition of recombinant GDNF protein to primary spinal cord neurons in-vitro resulted in enhanced neurite growth and a marked increase in protein levels of GAD65 and GAD67, synapsin I and synaptophysin. GDNF-me...

Practical Management Measures for Patients with Recurrent Herpes Labialis

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 15:09:04 +0100

This article examines current therapies and potential new treatments for patients with recurrent herpes labialis. Skin Therapy Letter (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

United States Seizes Unapproved Ozone Generators

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:00:00 +0100

At the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Marshals seized 77 ozone generators, models AOS-1M and AOS-1MD, from Applied Ozone Systems of Auburn, Calif. The seized goods, which are medical devices, are valued at $75,900. The FDA advises health care professionals and consumers to discontinue use of these devices, which Applied Ozone Systems claims can treat cancer, AIDS, hepatitis, herpes, and a number of other diseases and conditions... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Shingles vaccination proposed

NHS News Feed — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:49:00 +0100

Millions of people in their seventies could be vaccinated against shingles, according to several newspapers. The news is based on a recommendation from the government’s independent committee on immunisation. It says there may be benefits in vaccinating the elderly against the virus that causes the painful skin condition. The Daily Telegraph says a vaccination programme could be in place by late 2010 if it is proven to be cost-effective. What is the basis for these current reports? News coverage has been based on a short statement released by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). The JCVI is an independent expert advisory committee that gives advice to the government on matters relating to prevention of communicable diseases through immunisation. Any advice given...

Genital Herpes' Reactivation Better Understood

MedicineNet Womens Health General — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Genital Herpes' Reactivation Better UnderstoodCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/29/2010 2:10:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/1/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Womens Health General)

Parabiosis model does not show presence of circulating osteoprogenitor cells

genesis — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The goal of this study was to determine the presence of osteoprogenitor cells in the peripheral blood. Experiments were conducted with a parabiosis model in which osteoblast specific transgenic mice (Col2.3GFP or hOC-GFP) were surgically joined with a transgenic mouse where herpes virus thymidine kinase gene is under the control of the collagen [alpha]1 promoter (Col2.3[Delta]TK). This method permits conditional ablation of osteoblasts by ganciclovir (GCV) treatment. In parabionts treated with GCV for 15 days or 1.5-2 months, GFP (hOC-GFP or Col2.3GFP) expression was not detected in histological preparations or in marrow stromal cell cultures from the Col2.3[Delta]TK parabiont. Finally, Col2.3GFP/Col2.3[Delta]TK pairs were treated with GCV for 15 days and allowed to recover from GCV for 3 ...

Synthesis and antiviral activity of phthiobuzone analogues.

Chemical and Pharmaceutical Bulletin — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Yang YJ, Zhao JH, Pan XD, Zhang PC A series of phthiobuzone analogs, prepared from potassium phthalimide or phthalandione, have been evaluated for their antiviral activities. Among the candidates, compounds 5j and 5k, which contain the substituted 4-halogenated phenyl ring at N-4',4'' position, show more potent antiviral activity than phthiobuzone against herpes simplex virus 1 (IC(50)=8.56 and 2.85 mug/ml, respectively) and herpes simplex virus 2 (IC(50)=1.75 and 4.11 mug/ml, respectively). Compounds 9c and 9d with a propylene linker between the phthalimide and bisthiosemicarbazone moieties display similar antiviral potency against herpes simplex virus 1 (IC(50)=2.85 and 4.11 mug/ml, respectively). PMID: 20118580 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Chemical and Pharmaceutical ...