RNA, in a Nutshell
The mRNA vaccine platform is based on decades of previous studies, highlighting the importance of regularly funding basic research.
Basic virology
SARS-CoV-2 UK variant: Does it matter?
A variant of SARS-CoV-2 has been spreading within England, and it has been suggested that this virus is more transmissible. In this video Vincent explains the properties of the SARS-CoV-2 UK variant and why claims that it is more transmissible are not supported by experimental data. This video was recorded on Monday, 21 December 2020. …
An antiviral compound that blocks SARS-CoV-2 transmission in ferrets
COVID-19 vaccine candidates are garnering all the news these days, which is appropriate as they are our key to ending this pandemic. Earlier in this outbreak antiviral drugs received a good deal of attention, but they have proven less useful in curtailing infection. Less discussed are the many antiviral drug candidates that are in testing, …
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My at-home SARS-CoV-2 antibody test result
Recently I had a false positive PCR result for SARS-CoV-2. To confirm that I was not infected, I did an assay for viral antibodies in my blood using a rapid, at home, lateral flow assay. In this video I explain how the assay works and what my results mean.
Pandoraviruses Are Not Alive
Pandoraviruses seemingly have the ability to produce an electrical potential across their membrane, a feature that is typically only associated with living cells.
Cigarette smoke increases infection severity of SAR-CoV-2 in airway cells in culture
Cigarette smoking appears to be associated with more severe COVID-19, but the underlying mechanisms have not been deciphered. The results of infection of airway cells in culture with SARS-CoV-2 provide some insight. Smoking is the most important cause of chronic lung disease, which in turn is a risk factor for severe COVID-19. Some studies have …
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