TARGETS FOR HUMAN MICRO RNAS IN AVIAN INFLUENZA VIRUS (H5N1) GENOME

摘要

The present invention relates to targets for Human microRNAs in Avian Influenza Virus (H5N1) Genome and provides specific miRNA targets against H5N1 virus. Existing therapies for Avian flu are of limited use primarily due to genetic re-assortment of the viral genome, generating novel proteins, and thus escaping immune response. In animal models, baculovirus-derived recombinant H5 vaccines were immunogenic and protective, but results in humans were disappointing even when using high doses. Currently, two classes of drugs are available with antiviral activity against influenza viruses: inhibitors of the M2 ion channel, amantadine and rimantadine, and inhibitors of neuraminidase, oseltamivir, and zanamivir. There is paucity of information regarding effectiveness of these drugs in H5N1 infection. These drugs are also well known to have side effects like neurotoxicity. Thus there exists a need to develop alternate therapy for targeting the Avian flu virus (H5N1). The present invention addresses this need in the field.