In 2012, a new coronavirus was identified in the Middle East causing a respiratory syndrome in humans (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus, MERS-CoV). Camels were shown to be a major reservoir for the virus and a potential source for human infections. Although transmission of the virus from animals to humans as well as humans to […]
Our body, especially the intestine, is colonized by a huge number of microbes – ten times more than the body’s own eukaryotic cells. This overcrowding, which seems rather alarming at first glance, fulfills important functions. Although bacteria are commonly associated with diseases, many of these microbes are harmless or even beneficial for humans. Indeed, the
Autoimmune-mediated damage to the kidneys can be triggered by autoantibodies directed against renal proteins, as in the case of primary membranous nephropathy (MN) or Goodpasture syndrome, or may occur secondary as part of the wide-reaching effects of systemic autoimmune diseases such as vasculitis or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The detection of specific autoantibodies in patient
They can spoil your appetite for ice cream, cold lemonade or a lovely breakfast on the terrace. And this summer they are reported to be particularly numerous. Wasps! In search for food they leave their nests in swarms, boldly helping themselves to the rich buffets found with us humans. Particularly for those people who are
The circumstances of the death of Knut, the famous polar bear born in the Zoo Berlin, have finally been unraveled four years later. The answer presents a little scientific sensation which was published in “Scientific Reports” on August 27th. Knut fell sick with a so-called anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, a brain inflammation caused by autoantibodies against
