health and wellness

Shark antibodies may have the teeth to stop COVID-19

Published

2 years ago

June 8, 2022

Newswise — To combat viruses, one of humankind’s oldest threats, researchers are studying predators with the oldest adaptive immune system in the animal kingdom: sharks.

Fossil evidence suggest sharks first existed 420 million years ago, predating humanity, Mount Everest and even trees. Over the course of time, sharks and other fish with cartilage skeletons developed what is now believed to be the oldest adaptive immune system in the animal kingdom.

According to a recent study published in Nature Communications, these ancient predators and their prehistoric immune systems may also be key to developing effective COVID-19 treatments.

“The shark antibodies neutralized the proteins in ways we weren’t expecting.” — Surajit Banerjee, Cornell University/NE-CAT

Professors Aaron LeBeau of the University of Wisconsin and Hideki Aihara of the University of Minnesota used the Advanced Photon Source (APS), a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science user facility at DOE’s Argonne National Laboratory, to look at nurse shark antibodies. With exquisite resolution, the APS’s extremely bright X-ray beams showed that variable new antigen receptors (VNARs), the smallest unit of a shark antibody, can stop SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 and its variants.

An antibody, whether human or shark, binds to a virus protein when a region of molecules called amino acids from the antibody encounters a similar region on the virus protein. In humans, these amino acid regions tend to only bind one flat surface to another, just as a sticker would adhere to a bowling ball. In sharks, the VNARs’ amino acids bind not only to flat parts of a target protein, but also bind snugly inside deeper grooves. This means that instead of sticking only to the surface of the bowling ball, shark VNARs could bind tightly and flexibly into the ball’s finger holes as well. This heightened molecular dexterity means shark VNARs can access pockets in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that existing human antibodies cannot.

In their study, the researchers put three shark VNARs to the test against SARS-CoV-2. They used the Northeastern Collaborative Access Team (NE-CAT) beamlines 24-ID-C and 24-ID-E at the APS to observe crystalline structures of the samples.

“Structurally, it was surprising that the two VNARs had such different modes of recognition of the virus spike protein,” said Cornell University’s Surajit Banerjee, a staff scientist at NE-CAT and an author on the paper. “The shark antibodies neutralized the proteins in ways we weren’t expecting.”

Functionally, however, the shark VNARs proved highly stable, as effective as or better than current treatments for COVID-19, and resilient to the changing structures of variants. This may help in the development of new treatments for SARS-CoV-2 variants, such as Delta and Omicron.

The VNARs also showed promise as therapeutics for other known beta coronaviruses and future emergent diseases. They appear able to identify and bind to regions of amino acids that are the same among different coronaviruses.

The small size of the VNARs, their resilience and their cost-effective availability are all reasons why the researchers believe there is more to learn from the study of shark adaptive immune systems. It may even be possible to formulate VNAR “cocktails” to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals who are already infected or who are at immediate high risk of infection. Such a therapy would not replace vaccination, but it would be a useful tool for critically ill patients.

“The crystallography studies at APS allowed us to make reliable conclusions about the nature of the VNAR-spike interactions,” said LeBeau. “That will pave the way for the next phases in development of VNAR therapy for COVID-19.”

About the Advanced Photon Source

The U. S. Department of Energy Office of Science’s Advanced Photon Source (APS) at Argonne National Laboratory is one of the world’s most productive X-ray light source facilities. The APS provides high-brightness X-ray beams to a diverse community of researchers in materials science, chemistry, condensed matter physics, the life and environmental sciences, and applied research. These X-rays are ideally suited for explorations of materials and biological structures; elemental distribution; chemical, magnetic, electronic states; and a wide range of technologically important engineering systems from batteries to fuel injector sprays, all of which are the foundations of our nation’s economic, technological, and physical well-being. Each year, more than 5,000 researchers use the APS to produce over 2,000 publications detailing impactful discoveries, and solve more vital biological protein structures than users of any other X-ray light source research facility. APS scientists and engineers innovate technology that is at the heart of advancing accelerator and light-source operations. This includes the insertion devices that produce extreme-brightness X-rays prized by researchers, lenses that focus the X-rays down to a few nanometers, instrumentation that maximizes the way the X-rays interact with samples being studied, and software that gathers and manages the massive quantity of data resulting from discovery research at the APS.

This research used resources of the Advanced Photon Source, a U.S. DOE Office of Science User Facility operated for the DOE Office of Science by Argonne National Laboratory under Contract No. DE-AC02-06CH11357.

Argonne National Laboratory seeks solutions to pressing national problems in science and technology. The nation’s first national laboratory, Argonne conducts leading-edge basic and applied scientific research in virtually every scientific discipline. Argonne researchers work closely with researchers from hundreds of companies, universities, and federal, state and municipal agencies to help them solve their specific problems, advance America’s scientific leadership and prepare the nation for a better future. With employees from more than 60 nations, Argonne is managed by UChicago Argonne, LLC for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, visit https://energy.gov/science.

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Source: Argonne National Laboratory

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Health

Take a Rest from Stress

Published

18 hours ago

April 25, 2024

Daily News Staff

5 strategies to combat stressful triggers

(Family Features) Stress, the physical or mental response to external causes like overwhelming work assignments or difficult life moments, can add unnecessary pressure to your day to day. While everyone feels stress from time to time, when left untreated or unrecognized, it can begin to wreak havoc in the form of anxiety.

In honor of National Stress Awareness Month, consider these strategies to combat stress from the National Institutes of Mental Health.

Learn Your Triggers
Different events and situations cause stress for different people. Knowing what triggers your stress to kick in – mounds of office paperwork, important financial decisions or hectic mornings, for example – can help you plan and prepare for stress-inducing moments.

Exercise and Eat Right
Maintaining physical health can be beneficial for mental health, too. Find time to do exercises you enjoy like walking, jogging, yoga or playing a sport. Identifying activities that bring you joy can make it easier to fit 30-60-minute workouts into your schedule without adding even more stress. Complement your workout routine with nutritional meals that help you stay on track with your fitness goals.

Practice Relaxation
Whether you find inner peace through journaling, breathing exercises, reading or some other form of slowing down, find what works for you and prioritize fitting it into your daily schedule. Relaxing activities help you slow down the pace of life, providing a chance to reset by doing something you enjoy.

Get Enough Sleep
A lack of quality sleep can add to stress. Creating a bedtime routine can increase your sleep habits and help you achieve the expert-recommended 7-9 hours per night. Put away electronics, which can interfere with your ability to calm your mind, and find an activity that puts you at ease like reading a book or listening to relaxing music. Ensure your bedroom is optimized for comfort by making it cool, dark and quiet.

Create a Network of Support
Everyone experiences stress. Reach out to family members and close friends you can lean on in stressful and frustrating moments. Share your feelings and encourage others to do the same, which can increase trust and help everyone in your circle cope in a positive way.

Find more ways to combat stress and care for your mental health at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

Health

Managing Asthma Triggers

Published

19 hours ago

April 25, 2024

Daily News Staff

(Family Features) For those with asthma, understanding what can trigger symptoms is a part of getting the condition under control. Some of the same things that cause allergies can worsen symptoms, but not every allergen is a trigger for everyone with asthma. The places where you live, learn, work and play can expose you to common asthma triggers like pet dander, dust mites, pests like rodents and cockroaches, mold, cigarette smoke, pollen, air pollution and more. Managing triggers is just one part of controlling asthma, however. Work with your health care provider to make an asthma action plan and keep track of your symptoms and where you are when they occur. Learn more at nhlbi.nih.gov/BreatheBetter.

SOURCE:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Food and Beverage

The 10 Best Healthiest Seafood Options: Nutrient-Rich and Sustainable Choices

“From sardines to salmon, discover the top 10 healthiest and sustainable seafood options for a nutrient-rich diet. 🐟🌱 #Seafood”

Published

1 day ago

April 24, 2024

Charles Elliot

Free seafood boil image. "Selection of fresh and nutritious seafood options on a wooden table"

Seafood is a treasure trove of essential nutrients and beneficial compounds that can significantly contribute to a healthy diet. From the omega-3 fatty acids that promote heart health to the abundance of vitamins and minerals, incorporating seafood into your meals can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. In this blog post, we will delve into the ten best healthiest seafood options, considering their nutritional content, sustainability, and potential contaminants.

Sardines:
These small fish are incredibly nutritious, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and calcium. Sardines are also low in contaminants and are considered one of the most sustainable seafood options available.
Salmon:
Salmon is well-known for its impressive omega-3 content. It also provides high-quality protein, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium. Opt for wild-caught Alaskan salmon for the best nutritional benefits and sustainability.
Oysters:
Oysters are a true nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins B12, D, and zinc. They are a sustainable choice and an excellent source of lean protein. Including oysters in your diet not only benefits your health but also supports local marine ecosystems due to their ability to filter water.
Mackerel:
Mackerel is another fish that boasts high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, along with vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium. This flavorful fish is considered a sustainable choice and offers numerous health benefits.
Rainbow Trout:
Rainbow trout is a deliciously mild-flavored fish that is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin B12, and iron. It is a sustainable choice, particularly when sourced from responsible fish farms.
Clams:
Clams are an excellent source of protein, vitamin B12, iron, and selenium. They are sustainable, low in contaminants, and make a versatile addition to dishes like pasta, chowders, and stir-fries.
Herring:
Herring is an oily fish that delivers a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. It is an eco-friendly choice and can be enjoyed smoked, pickled, or grilled.
Cod:
Cod is a lean white fish that provides protein, vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus. It is known for its mild flavor and versatility in cooking methods.
Shrimp:
Shrimp is low in calories and rich in protein, vitamin D, and selenium. Choose sustainably sourced shrimp to minimize environmental impact and ensure a healthier choice.
Anchovies:
Anchovies may be small in size, but they are big in nutritional value. These tiny fish deliver omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamins D and E. They are also a sustainable choice when sourced responsibly.

When it comes to the healthiest seafood options, there is an abundance of choices that offer an array of essential nutrients while also being environmentally responsible. Sardines, salmon, oysters, mackerel, rainbow trout, clams, herring, cod, shrimp, and anchovies are all fantastic choices to boost your overall health while supporting sustainable fishing practices. Incorporate these nutrient powerhouses into your diet and savor the benefits they provide for your well-being and the planet.

What are the Risks of Eating Seafood?

Although seafood is a nutritious option to fulfill dietary nutrient gaps, there are some environmental and health concerns related to its consumption.

Seafood may contain toxins, viruses, parasites, and bacteria that can be harmful if consumed. To avoid getting sick, it is essential to cook fish and shellfish thoroughly. As per the USDA guidelines, most seafood should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Contaminants, including Mercury and Others

Overconsumption of certain seafood varieties can have negative health effects due to the presence of contaminants. For instance, specific fish species contain high levels of mercury, a heavy metal that can be easily absorbed by the body. Mercury accumulation is more common in larger fish, as they consume smaller fish that have ingested mercury-rich plankton. Consequently, larger and older fish are typically the most mercury-contaminated.

Regularly consuming foods high in mercury can result in mercury accumulation in the body, leading to health problems like high blood pressure, heart attack, and developmental delay in offspring. Mercury is toxic and can have detrimental effects on the body.

Mercury can have a greater impact on certain groups, such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children, who are more susceptible to its effects.

To reduce the amount of mercury in your diet, avoid consuming seafood like shark, certain types of tuna, swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel as they have high mercury levels. Instead, opt for low-mercury options such as trout, cod, oysters, clams, herring, salmon, and sardines.

Recommendations for Incorporating Seafood into Your Eating Plan

Eating seafood can boost the quality of your diet and support and protect your health. However, it’s important to consider the nutrition and environmental impact of seafood when narrowing down options to add to your diet.

Adding seafood to your diet can boost its nutritional quality and promote your overall health. However, it is essential to consider the nutritional composition and environmental impact of various seafood options before including them in your meals.

Read the article in Health titled Healthiest Seafood Options, Ranked for further insight into the topic. https://www.health.com/healthiest-seafood-8630471

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