US researchers find cure for dengue

Enzymes and biochemical compounds called lipids that are targeted and altered during infection by the dengue virus have been identified by a team of researchers from Purdue University.The findings indicate a potential new approach to control the virus, according to a study.The team’s findings indicate that drugs used to treat other lipid-related conditions, such as high cholesterol might prevent the virus from replicating and could be used as a potential new treatment. The team discovered how infected mosquito cells alter certain lipids in membranes and in biochemical sensors that warn cells of invading viruses.The team gained new insight into how the virus changes lipids in membranes surrounding structures inside cells called organelles, including the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. Mitochondria are the cell’s power generators while the endoplasmic reticulum is responsible for the production of proteins and lipids.Findings from the study could apply to viruses similar to dengue, including the hepatitis C, West Nile virus, and yellow fever.Dengue is believed to be one of the most aggressive mosquito-borne human pathogens worldwide. In some Latin American and Asian countries, dengue is a leading cause of severe illness and death among children.