Tag Archives: mutation

The Rare Mutation That Makes People Immune to Viruses

The Rare Mutation That Makes People Immune to Viruses

A rare genetic condition that once looked like a weakness has revealed a hidden strength: immunity against nearly all viruses. Credit: Shutterstock Some people carry a rare mutation that makes them resistant to viruses. Now scientists have copied that effect with an experimental mRNA therapy that stopped both flu and COVID in animal trials — raising hopes for a universal …

Read More »

Recreating a Rare Mutation Could Grant Almost Universal Virus Immunity For Days : ScienceAlert

Recreating a Rare Mutation Could Grant Almost Universal Virus Immunity For Days : ScienceAlert

A rare genetic mutation appears to make people basically invulnerable to viruses – and it could potentially be harnessed as a therapy. Researchers have now shown this surprising viral protection can be replicated in mice and hamsters. “We have yet to find a virus that can break through the therapy’s defenses [in cell culture tests],” explains Columbia University immunologist Dusan …

Read More »

Common genetic mutation increases the risk of dementia in men

Common genetic mutation increases the risk of dementia in men

About one man in 36 carries two copies of a tiny change in the HFE gene and that detail can more than double his odds of developing dementia, according to a new analysis of nearly 12,200 Australians and Americans. Dementia already affects about 433,000 Australians, and while women still outnumber men, this fresh genetic signal shows that older males with …

Read More »