Bird Flu Medication Route Found In Virus' Weak Point

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Main Category: Bird Flu / Avian Flu
Also Included In: Flu / Cold / SARS;  Biology / Biochemistry;  Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses
Article Date: 17 Aug 2006 - 14:00 PDT

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While mapping the H5N1 avian flu virus, scientists from the National Institute of Research, London, discovered a weakness which could be targeted by drugs.

The N1 part of the virus (type-1 neuraminidase) has a cavity. It might be possible to target drugs into this cavity and stop the virus from spreading, say the scientists.

John Skehel, team leader, said "It is a race. You have got to try to keep ahead of variation, and in the case of H5N1 particularly the emergence of transmission from human to human".

The researchers say this finding could make it possible to treat humans, even in the event of an outbreak. However, they also added that any effective drug would probably take at least five years to come onto the market.

The team are working with pharmaceutical companies to see whether it is possible that new drugs might work in combination with Tamiflu and Relenza.

238 human have become infected with the H5N1 bird flu virus strain - the virulent one. About 60% of those who were infected died. Although most scientists believe H5N1 could eventually mutate so that it becomes easily human transmissible, there is no evidence that this has yet happened.

The best drugs on the market at the moment to treat people with H5N1 infection are Tamiflu (oseltamivir) and Relenza (zanamivir). Both drugs were originally made for use with patients who have other forms of human flu. Various countries have been stockpiling these drugs in case H5N1 does mutate and a pandemic ensues.

Chink found in flu virus enzymes
Skehel et al
Nature doi:10.1038/news060814-9
-- Click Here To View Abstract Online
-- Click Here To See Illustration of Cavity

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today


Copyright: Medical News Today
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