Viral infections are a large challenge for doctors and at times, they mutate to such an extent that it is not possible to cure them with drugs that are already available. Ebola and Zika are a risk to people around the world, but there is some good news. Singapore’s Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology along with IBM Research have found a macromolecule that can use a triple play mechanism and prevent the spread of the most deadly infections.
By studying large multi-featured molecules, they believe the infections can be defeated. IBM Watson along with such breakthroughs that are imminent could bring forward further drug discoveries.
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There are several specialised components in the macromolecule, and this results in the triple play action.
- Attraction – electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonds attract the viruses’ proteins and stop it infecting healthy cells.
- Prevention – the sugar Mannose helps fight the infection by attaching to healthy immune cells and allowing then to flow freely.
- Neutralisation – the pH in the viral cell can be neutralised therefore stopping it reproducing.
Lead researcher James Hedrick is excited about the events that will come about as a result of this discovery and is hoping that there can be a collaboration with Universities to find more applications yet.
IBM will be able to advance this research yet further and thanks to cognitive computing, should be able to find clinical trials for patients ensuring that more people receive the help that they need.