This Week in Virology TWiV 1231: What is a virus?
Jun 29, 2025
The discussion kicks off with serious concerns over declining global vaccination rates and their impact on children’s health. They delve into the controversial comments of public figures regarding vaccine safety and misinformation. The hosts clarify the complexities surrounding autism diagnoses and the importance of accurate discussions. Additionally, they explore the fascinating world of viral glycoproteins in vaccine development and highlight the critical role of energy metabolism in viral replication. The conversation wraps up with a celebration of scientific achievements and a call to support public health.
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Rabies Fatality from Puppy Scratch
- A woman on holiday in Morocco was scratched by a pet puppy and died of rabies due to lack of immediate vaccination.
- This tragic case illustrates the importance of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis in regions where the virus is not controlled.
Proline Stabilizes Viral Glycoproteins
- Stabilizing viral fusion glycoproteins in the pre-fusion conformation enhances vaccine effectiveness.
- Proline substitutions induce rigidity, locking the glycoprotein in the pre-fusion state, improving immunity.
Mapping Rabies Antibody Escape Mutations
- Deep mutational scanning reveals escape mutations in rabies virus glycoprotein that evade monoclonal antibody neutralization.
- Broad-spectrum antibodies are escaped by fewer mutations, suggesting targets for robust therapeutic development.
