Researchers recently conducted a study on Zaire ebolavirus to determine how it becomes more deadly as it is transmitted. Zaire ebolavirus is the strain of Ebola that is currently prevalent in West Africa. The study focused on Zaire ebolavirus in animal systems. The researchers observed that the virus did not start to affect the animal systems until it was repeatedly transmitted from animal to animal. They also observed that it became more severe as it spread. As the scientists analyzed Zaire ebolavirus at different stages, they observed that the genetic material present in the virus became progressively altered. The changes that the genetic material sustained were affiliated with increased disease. Julian Hiscox, a professor at the University of Liverpool and a leader of the study, stated that the information obtained about the changes the genetic material undergoes after successive transmissions of the virus will aid in the development of new treatment strategies.
I found the results of the study encouraging. The scientists were able to identify exactly what parts of the virus are responsible for making it more deadly as it spreads. It is great to hear that scientists are going to be able to develop new treatment strategies for Ebola. I hope they will eventually be able to control the spread of the virus so there are no further outbreaks.
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