Scientists have discovered a novel defensive response to SARS-CoV-2 that involves the viral pattern recognition receptor RIG-I. Upregulating expression of this protein could strengthen the immune response in COPD patients. Source
AI predicts lung cancer risk
An artificial intelligence program accurately predicts the risk that lung nodules detected on screening CT will become cancerous, according to a new study. Source
Novel nanotech improves cystic fibrosis antibiotic by 100,000-fold, research shows
New nanotechnology could change the lives of thousands of people living with cystic fibrosis (CF) as groundbreaking research shows it can improve the effectiveness of the CF antibiotic Tobramycin, increasing its efficacy by up to 100,000-fold. Source
One third of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have lung changes after a year
A new study has shown that most patients discharged from hospital after experiencing severe COVID-19 infection appear to return to full health, although up to a third do still have evidence of effects upon the lungs one year on. Source
3D ‘bioprinting’ used to create nose cartilage
A team of University of Alberta researchers has discovered a way to use 3-D bioprinting technology to create custom-shaped cartilage for use in surgical procedures. The work aims to make it easier for surgeons to safely restore the features of skin cancer patients living with nasal cartilage defects after surgery. Source
New cell atlas of COVID lungs reveals why SARS-CoV-2 is deadly and different
A new study draws the most detailed picture yet of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the lung, revealing mechanisms that cause lethal COVID-19 and how COVID-19 differs from other infectious diseases. Source
A new treatment that might keep COVID-19 patients off the ventilator
A new treatment is among the first known to reduce the severity of acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by the flu in animals, according to a new study. Source
Two distinct types of COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome identified
Identifying subsets of patients with different biochemical characteristics can help clinical researchers develop more effective therapies for treating ARDS associated with COVID-19 infections. Results of a new study suggest that disruption of the normal regulation of blood vessels and circulation could be a key feature of critical illness, severe symptoms, and death related to COVID-19 infections. Source
Fewer people sought medical help for severe asthma attacks during the COVID-19 pandemic
Fewer patients with severe attacks were seen by their GP or admitted to hospital during the covid-19 pandemic, and fewer were admitted to hospital for pneumonia, influenza and chronic lung diseases, according to new research. Source
New technique provides detailed map of lung pathology in COVID-19
Researchers have used advanced technology and analytics to map, at single-cell resolution, the cellular landscape of diseased lung tissue in severe COVID-19 and other infectious lung diseases. Source