An international team of scientists led by the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York are working to develop a broad-spectrum antiviral drug that could help humans fight off viral infections more effectively, according to research published in Nature Communications.
Years ago, researchers discovered that humans who lack ISG15, a gene linked to the immune system's response to viral infection, are more capable of resisting infections than humans with the gene.
New findings from the Mount Sinai team shows switching the gene off in human cells boosted immunity against seven viruses, including the dangerous Nipah and Rift Valley fever viruses.
"We also have evidence suggesting the strategy protects against Zika infection, and we plan to test Ebola as soon as possible," said lead study investigator, Dusan Bogunovic, PhD. "The idea is to develop a pill that people can use to protect against pandemics — or even to help an individual stop an emerging cold sore."
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