virology
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The US Just Lifted A Ban On Deadly Mutant Virus Research – Here’s Why
The US National Institutes of Health has lifted a ban on “gain-of-function” research on – the kind of research that requires genetically modifying viruses to make them more deadly or more contagious.
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Scientists Unearth Ancient DNA Depicting A Battle Between Viruses And Our Ancestors
Millions of years ago, our ancestors’ bodies may have waged an epic battle against a virus. Through a sneaky DNA swap, the hosts would have gotten the upper hand, and turned the virus’ defences against themselves. Researchers think they have unearthed the whole ordeal, left like a Dead Sea scroll in our genes.
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An Awful Bat-Killing Disease Is Spreading Throughout The US
A devastating fungal disease that has killed millions of bats in eastern North America has now reached Washington State, prompting serious concern among wildlife officials.
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Approaching Zero: How West Africa Is Crushing The Ebola Epidemic
The West African Ebola outbreak is finally starting to approach manageable levels, after nearly 18 excruciating months and over 11,000 lost lives. Here’s what the current situation on the ground looks like and how the battle against Ebola finally might be won.