Sunday, November 10, 2024
Health

Epstein-Barr virus vaccine, the first of its kind, seems promising.

The first Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) vaccine has been created, potentially reducing the development of risky health issues such multiple sclerosis and the growth of related malignancies.

The vaccine counters EBV and stops it evolving. (Photo courtesy: Getty)

The vaccine counters EBV and stops it from evolving. (Photo courtesy: Getty)

With the creation of the first-ever mononucleosis (IM or “mono”), commonly known as glandular fever, vaccination against the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), researchers have accomplished a significant advancement.

EBV, a virus from the herpes family, is transmitted via salivary contact. Although this virus is carried by 95% of the world’s population, for the majority of people, infection happens in early childhood and remains dormant, with no noticeable symptoms.

Additional health problems including cancer and multiple sclerosis (MS) can be brought on by the virus.

The virus can lead to further health issues like cancer and multiple sclerosis (MS). (Photo courtesy: Getty)

The virus can lead to further health issues like cancer and multiple sclerosis (MS). (Photo courtesy: Getty)

Scientists at the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Australia have developed a vaccine that targets mice’s lymph nodes, which are important components of the body’s immune system and have published their findings in the journal Nature Communications.

This vaccine demonstrated the capacity to create a particular sort of immunity that protects against the emergence of EBV-associated cancers in addition to eliciting antibodies and T cells to battle EBV.

“Our brilliant discovery includes the development of T cells, which we refer to as another dimension of the immune system. Our ground-breaking formulation, which combines these T cells with antibodies, promotes the creation of both, strengthening both the antibody and T cell immune responses, according to immunologist Rajiv Khanna of the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute.

The real dangers arise when someone misses this early immunisation and contracts the EBV later in life, particularly during puberty.

This is when the virus produces mono, also known as glandular fever, and raises the risk of some cancers of the nose, throat, and even MS-related tumours.

There is further study being done to ensure thorough studies as human clinical trials approach. These trials might start as soon as 2024 or 2025.

Article courtesy @Indiatoday.in

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