Disease

Ebola, Marburg, SARS, MERS, and now the new coronavirus Covid-19, all share one thing in common – they are thought to have originated in bats. But how do bats live with the viruses that seem to so easily kill other organisms?

A journal article is offering the most thorough insights to date into the clinical characteristics of the rapidly spreading novel coronavirus. The study examined 99 cases, describing common symptoms and types of patients likely to contract the virus.

New research hints at the possibility that more effective, less toxic mosquito traps and repellents could one day be made, based on chemicals in orchids to which mosquitoes are attracted and repelled.

As the new year kicked off, a never-before-seen virus began to spread across China. So what do we know so far about this mystery virus? And how dangerous is the looming epidemic?

Promising data from one of the first human trials testing a CRISPR gene therapy has just been revealed. Although it is too early to evaluate long-term effects, the initial reports demonstrate success for two patients with genetic blood diseases.

With the inability to sweat making the headlines in a certain high-profile news story that won't go away, New Atlas looks at what is known about anhidrosis: the little-known condition wrapped up with the controversy.

New research has identified a specific genetic variant that may act as a biomarker for patients that are unlikely to respond to new biologic treatments for Crohn's disease.

A new study shows that disabling a single protein in human cells could render the cold virus ineffective.

​Acyclovir is one of the most commonly-used herpes-treatment drugs. It can also damage the kidneys, however, so the less of it that's used, the better. According to a new study, combining the drug with activated carbon helps make it more effective, so a smaller amount of it is required.

A new artificial intelligence (AI) app developed by researchers from Bioversity International allows banana​ farmers to identify and combat outbreaks of pests and diseases. Designed to be used with a smartphone, both on and offline, it's claimed to operate with an average success rate of 90 percent.

​As crop plants "breathe" through the pores in their leaves, they release an assortment of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. A new smartphone-connected device analyzes those chemicals within a matter of minutes, detecting and identifying any diseases that may be indicated.

​Sepsis occurs when the body's immune system releases chemicals to fight an infection, triggering widespread inflammation. If not treated soon enough, organ failure and even death can ultimately result. A new device, however, could detect it earlier than ever.