Genetic Breakthrough Supercharges Flu Immunity

Genetic Breakthrough Supercharges Flu Immunity

www.eurekalert.org

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a way to boost an organism’s natural anti-virus defences, effectively making its cells immune to influenza and other viruses.
Their process – which could lead to the development of new anti-viral therapies in humans – involved knocking out two genes in mice that repress production of the protein interferon, the cell’s first line of defence against viruses.

(visit the link for the full news article)



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If true, this breakthrough would dramatically change the landscape, offering a solid defense against the threat of pandemic, whether H5N1 or otherwise.

Since Tamiflu stockpiles are being hoarded and new flu viruses are gaining resistance to our current medical treatments, finding a genetic solution to these viruses may be our best hope.

Engineering immunity with the human body has long been the stuff of science fiction, but with modern advances in genetics, how long might it be before we breed a super race, immune to the natural (and unnatural) hazards the world throws out us?

www.eurekalert.org
(visit the link for the full news article)

[edit on 13-2-2008 by AJ Lavender]

Originally posted by AJ Lavender
Engineering immunity with the human body has long been the stuff of science fiction, but with modern advances in genetics, how long might it be before we breed a super race, immune to the nature (and unnatural) hazards the world throws out us?

Not too long, if the results from genetically engineered pest-resistant crops are an indication.

So much for genetic engineering -- evolution has got it beat

Viruses and germs have a much faster life-cycle than insects. That would mean their rate of evolution will also be faster.