Science Daily featured an article originally published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences by researchers from the University of Leeds detailing the finding in RNA function in viruses. The RNA sequence identified is vital to virus assembly of strains such as; the rhinovirus, tick-borne encephalitis, and polio.
Figure 1. Image from University of Leeds researchers.
Researchers began their experiment after observing how the RNA encases itself in a "protective viral protein coat" in a matter of milliseconds. Mathematicians for the University of York then worked on an algorithm to create a computer model of the RNA coding system. In their last step, the University of Leeds researchers used single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy to observe the RNA strand in action.
Identifying the segments of code responsible is the first step in creating drugs that can disrupt the functionality of the code. If a drug can be developed to break down a virus at the RNA level, it would be a major development. Current antivirals target proteins on the virus' surface; however, as with most treatments, there is acquired resistance to treatment as the pathogen experiences selection towards different strands comprised of different proteins. An antiviral designed to target the RNA responsible for protecting the entirety of the RNA strand has the potential to limit the virus' ability to acquire resistance.
Post by Daniel Bonkowski (Group A)
Very interesting topic. I've always been fascinated with how viruses work and how they are constantly adapting to form resistance to particular drugs. I think this kind of research is a positive step toward the ultimate goal of stopping these viruses altogether. I found the blog to be well written and I thought you presented the information clearly. Did the researchers offer any insight as to how a drug designed to target this RNA would work?
ReplyDeletePosted by: David Rains
Indeed viruses and the human immune system have entered in a sort of co-evolutionary arms race which only increases the need for better drugs. You mentioned that "Drug resistant strains are a problem because each new drug is only effective for so long. " Can you elaborate on that? Perhaps give a little more background on why drugs (such as flu vaccinations) are only effective for so long.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading through this article, as I find that the subject of drug-resistant strains of certain viruses is a particularly relevant topic concerning modern day public health. The idea of having developed drugs so strong that they end up causing more harm than good is especially fascinating. Perhaps it would be helpful to discuss how these strains become resistant in the first place? And at what point do current forms of drugs no longer work to combat these illnesses?
ReplyDelete-Hilary Mello
Thanks for the critique, I chose this article because it was more relevant to a solution as opposed to the initial problem. This link is one of the best overviews of drug resistant strains I've seen if your interested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTjkSDaXF7s
DeletePosted by Daniel Bonkowski
Great post on the advances of modern medicine. How much more effective do you think this research will be in terms of fighting of drug resistant viruses, do you think this will be leaps and bounds more advanced than a virus’s ability to adapt or just another step towards helping us fight back?
ReplyDelete-Dan Staiculescu
The RNA sections identified are vital to the structure of a virus. It's inferred that if mutations occur they would be just as damaging to the virus as the antiviral drug. The reasoning behind that rationale is based off of how viruses infect other cells
DeletePosted by Daniel Bonkowski
It's encouraging to hear that we're approaching the destruction of viruses in new ways. However, just like how viruses have developed resistances to attacks to the virus's surface, I expect them to develop resistances to attacks on the RNA transport as well. The competition between medicine and viruses may well always be an arms race of innovation.
ReplyDelete-Posted by Patrick O'Loughlin