Topic: Research News
Scientists at National Taiwan University have developed a new way to fight multiple types of viruses using RNA-based therapeutics. This approach can overcome viral mutations and provide broad-spectrum antiviral activity.
The high frequency of RNA virus mutations and outbreaks of emerging RNA viral infections are major public health concerns. Researchers at National Taiwan University wanted to find a solution to this problem.
They discovered that RNA viruses produce new copies of themselves by making RNA in the mitochondria, which is like the power plant inside our cells. The researchers found that a protein called ENDOG, released from the mitochondria, can break down viral RNAs and prevent them from multiplying. However, ENDOG can also cause damage to the cell's DNA if it gets into the nucleus.
To solve this problem, the researchers created an engineered version of ENDOG that is anchored to the mitochondrial surface. This new protein, called MOM-ENDOG, can break down viral RNAs without causing any harm to the cell's DNA. They tested this approach by delivering modified mRNA encoding wild-type MOM-ENDOG into cells infected with various viruses, including VSV, influenza, dengue, and Zika. The results showed that this approach was effective in suppressing the propagation of these viruses.
The lead researcher, Zee-Fen Chang, said,
Implications
Scientists at National Taiwan University have developed a new way to fight multiple types of viruses using RNA-based therapeutics. This approach can overcome viral mutations and provide broad-spectrum antiviral activity.
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