Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026
12:23
Granulocyte-dependent Autoantibody-induced Skin Blistering
Published on: October 12, 2012
Self-inflicted wounds
1H. Holden Thorp Editor-in-Chief, Science journals.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|November 11, 2021
Summary
Recent scientific communication challenges regarding COVID-19 have fueled misinformation. Despite public relations missteps, the scientific consensus remains that SARS-CoV-2 is of zoonotic origin and vaccines are safe for children.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Virology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Recent public relations challenges have impacted the perception of COVID-19 science.
- Missteps concerning severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) origins and pediatric vaccines have been exploited by misinformation campaigns.
Discussion:
- Public perception is often swayed by communication errors rather than scientific evidence.
- Scientists face unrealistic expectations to be both expert researchers and effective communicators.
Key Insights:
- The scientific consensus supports a zoonotic origin for SARS-CoV-2.
- COVID-19 vaccines are established as safe and effective for pediatric populations.
Outlook:
- Improving scientific communication strategies is crucial for public trust.
- Addressing misinformation requires clear, consistent messaging from scientific institutions.
Related Concept Videos
01:38Inflammation
Overview
01:30Inflammatory Response I: Vascular and Cellular
The inflammatory response is the body's defense against infection, injury, or irritation from bacteria, trauma, toxins, or heat. Inflammation helps locate and destroy pathogens and remove damaged tissue elements to heal the body. During this initial phase, fluid, blood products, and nutrients migrate to the injured area, resulting in redness, heat, swelling, ache, and loss of function. Moreover, signs of systemic inflammation include fever, increased WBC count, malaise, anorexia, nausea,...
01:28Inflammatory Response
An inflammatory response is a localized, nonspecific immune reaction that occurs when a tissue is injured. It is characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain, which are commonly called the cardinal signs and symptoms of inflammation. Inflammation can sometimes result in a loss of function.
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
01:28Inflammation: Introduction
Inflammation is a fundamental, protective biological response of vascularized tissues to cellular injury, infection, or harmful stimuli. Its primary function is to eliminate the initial cause of injury, clear necrotic cells and damaged tissue, and initiate the necessary repair processes.Cardinal SignsAcute inflammation presents with classic signs. Redness results from vasodilation and increased blood flow. Heat is due to increased metabolism and circulation. Swelling results from the...
01:26Acute Inflammation I: Inflammatory Response
Acute inflammation is a rapid, short-lived physiological response to tissue injury or infection, designed to eliminate harmful agents and initiate repair. This tightly regulated process typically lasts from minutes to several days and is triggered by factors such as microbial invasion, physical trauma, or chemical injury.Recognition and Mediator ReleaseThe inflammatory response begins when resident immune cells—such as mast cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells—detect damage-associated...
01:25Acute Inflammation II: Local and Systemic Effects
Acute inflammation produces a coordinated set of local and systemic changes that limit injury, eliminate pathogens, and initiate repair. These responses arise within minutes of infection, trauma, or chemical insult and are driven by vascular alterations and leukocyte-derived mediators. When the stimulus resolves, the reaction typically abates within days.Local EffectsAt the site of injury, arteriolar vasodilation increases blood flow, resulting in redness and warmth. Simultaneously, increased...