Successfully decode the Ebola virus genome

Japanese scientists have successfully deciphered the Ebola virus genome, opening hope for effective treatment of the disease caused by this virus.

By applying viral gene synthesis techniques called " reverse genetics, " scientists created genetically engineered Ebola virus that removed VP30, the gene that makes proteins that allow the virus to replicate in the host cell. Without this gen, viruses can not develop.

Ebola virus is one of the most deadly viruses in the world.

Scientists found that the transgenic virus was unable to grow in normal and non-toxic cells. Meanwhile, the number of these viruses increases in monkey kidney cells programmed with VP30. In addition to cloning in monkey kidney cells, the shape and characteristics of the genetically altered virus are similar to the normal Ebola virus. This makes scientists believe that genetically modified viruses can be used for drug testing and other purposes.

With the above success, the researchers effectively controlled the Ebola virus in a special set of cells, making it safer to study viruses in conditions that are not as strict and costly as others. measures are applied. Scientists believe that this success will help boost studies of Ebola antiviral drugs and pave the way for the production of preventive vaccines.

Ebola virus becomes a nightmare for public health in Africa and is a potential biological weapon, causing dengue fever in humans and primates, with a mortality rate of up to 90% and is considered one of the most feared pathogens. Ebola virus first appeared in 1976 in Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo. A new type of Ebola virus has recently been discovered in Uganda and the disease has caused at least 40 deaths.