Researchers Discover Rare Flu-Thwarting Mutation
Scientists at University of Rochester discovered a strain of influenza virus with a mutated protein that is no longer able to inhibit interferons in the body. The protein is Non-Structural 1 (NS1), which under normal circumstances is able to prevent interferons from alerting the body that it is under attack. This allows the virus time to multiply and spread before the immune system starts attacking. The mutation makes NS1 dysfunctional, and therefore makes it easier for the body to fight the virus.
One great benefit this mutation provides is the possibility of creating a vaccine with a weakened live virus. This would lessen the chance of causing illness in humans who receive the vaccine. Before the discovery of this mutation, researchers did not think that NS1 function changed much between strains. Keeping track of these mutations may help produce more efficient vaccines in the future.
Sheel Singh
Sources:
- https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2016-10/uorm-rdr100316.php
- https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/4643/urmc-researchers-discover-rare-flu-thwarting-mutation.aspx
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| A flu virus attacks a respiratory tract cell |
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