Fighting the Flu

A group of researchers are using computer systems to design synthetic proteins that can fight the flu and other harmful viruses.  By binding to the virus, the protein will interrupt the natural release of the virus's replication information a host cell, thus preventing the illness.  Advances in this technology could replace present-day vaccines and possibly provide immunity to previously incurable viruses.  Eventually, the researchers would like modify a natural protein to bind to viruses in this way, eliminating the possibility of rejection by the body.

In this specific example, researchers were focused on the flu virus, which attacks its cells by releasing its contents after being triggered by a decrease in pH.  The protein would work by preventing this release at the lowered pH.  The current focus of the project is on finding which protein would provide the strongest bond and also treat the most strains of influenza, preventing future outbreaks among people from unpredictable strains.

I found this article interesting because I believe this technology may solve a lot of the ethical issues surrounding vaccines.  For example, many parents will not vaccinate their child for various diseases because they believe it leads to other problems such as autism or a weakened immune system.  With this technology, many of these problems may be eliminated as well as curing those who are already sick with viral illnesses.

http://www.biomedicalblog.com/synthetic-proteins-could-serve-as-next-generation-of-antivirals/215200/