News by Subject

Virus research centre to open in Glasgow

(The Scotsman 05/07/2009)

A MULTI-million-pound centre is being set up in Glasgow to find ways to tackle the spread of viruses across Britain. The Medical Research Council is investing £28 million over five years in a partnership with the University of Glasgow to fund a centre of excellence in virology research. The university will contribute an additional £10m. The Centre for Virus Research will combine the existing MRC Virology Unit in Glasgow and the University of Glasgow's Institute of Comparative Medicine.

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Virus-busting radiation beam offers hope to flu sufferers

(The Independent 14/02/2009)

Scientists have developed a technique for studying one of mankind's oldest enemies - the virus - which could help them treat some of the most difficult and intractable infections in the world. Synchrotron light is so powerful it allows researchers to paint accurate portraits of the otherwise invisible biological molecules that form the protective shells and inner machinery of viruses.

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Deadly virus threatens China's children

(The Independent 08/05/2008)

Chinese health authorities are grappling with a virus that has killed 28 children and is set to claim more lives, with reports of a preliminary cover-up of the highly contagious disease echoing the Sars epidemic of 2003. PUK Comment: This appears to be due to a rare but more serious form of Hand Foot and Mouth disease caused by enterovirus 71 (EV71). In the UK, Hand Foot and Mouth disease is normally a short, mild, illness.

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