This research uses fruit flies to study the STING immune pathway, revealing how cells detect viral infections. By identifying Nemo as a missing connector protein active only during infection, the work clarifies how immune responses are triggered. These insights may guide future therapies that balance antiviral defense while limiting immune damage.

Chickenpox is usually harmless, yet the same virus can cause severe brain infections in some individuals. This research shows that a genetic variant in an immune-system gene reduces antiviral defense, allowing greater viral replication. Identifying such variants helps explain individual vulnerability to severe viral disease.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) hospitalises thousands of children each year, yet effective treatments remain unavailable. This research investigates a critical protein–protein interaction that enables RSV infection. By identifying and disrupting key molecular binding sites using AI, the work aims to support the development of targeted antiviral therapies for severe RSV.

Gamma herpesviruses infect up to 95% of humans and can cause cancer, yet lack effective treatments. Using super-resolution microscopy, this research overturns the classic model of viral exit, revealing that herpesviruses build internal transport structures to escape cells efficiently—reshaping how we understand infection and opening new therapeutic possibilities.

Chronic diseases exhaust the body’s CD8 T cells, weakening their ability to fight infections and cancer. This research identifies CD7 as a key driver of T-cell exhaustion. Removing CD7 keeps T cells active, boosts cytokine production, and improves control of tumors and viruses—offering a promising new immunotherapy target.