Genetic Regulators hijacked by Avian and Swine Flu Viruses Identified

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have identified a number of tiny but powerful "genetic regulators" that are hijacked by avian and swine flu viruses during human infection. This study is the first to compare the role played by human microRNAs in the life cycle of two viruses of continued concern to public health officials around the world. The discovery was of two largely distinct sets of microRNAs involved in swine-origin H1N1 virus and the avian-origin H7N7 strain. Francois Jean, Associate Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Scientific Director of the Facility for Infectious Disease and Epidemic Research at UBC, says that their discovery points to a new level of cross-communication between viruses and the human cells in which they reproduce. Jean also believes that this discovery of the unique microRNA signatures will assist in developing antiviral treatments that don't run the risk of increasing drug resistance and help us develop novel antiviral treatments.