The researchers were able to prevent the replication of coronavirus in human cells in the laboratory, using the Crispr genetic editing technique, according to a study published on Tuesday, which could pave the way for new treatments against COVID-19, informs AFP.
A team of Australian scientists has used an enzyme that binds to the virus’s RNA and degrades the area of the genome that it needs to replicate inside cells, preventing it from multiplying and infecting other cells.
Following these in vitro results, published in the scientific journal Nature Communications, researchers hope to begin animal studies soon.
Crispr’s “molecular scissors” technology has revolutionized genome manipulation with the precision and ease with which it can be used compared to previous tools. It allows you to cut the DNA or RNA ribbon in a certain area and change the genetic code inside the cell.
Its application has shown promising results in eliminating genetic mutations that lead to the development of cancers in children and is undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of other cancers and rare genetic diseases, including sickle cell disease, beta thalassemia and a condition that causes blindness.
In a study published Tuesday, researchers adapted the tool to recognize Sars-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, lead author Sharon Lewin of the Peter Doherty Institute for Infections and Immunity in Melbourne told AFP.
“Once the virus is recognized, the Crispr enzyme is activated and cuts the virus into pieces,” she continued.
The technique has also been shown to be effective in stopping viral replication in virus samples belonging to the Alpha variant, which appeared in England at the end of 2020.
Several effective COVID-19 vaccines are already on the market, but few treatments are available and they are partially effective.
“We still need better treatment for people hospitalized because of COVID. The current possibilities (available drug treatments – na) are limited and, at best, reduce the risk of death by only 30%,” said Sharon Lewin .
However, “years, not months” will pass before the Crispr technique will be translated into large-scale treatments, the director of the Doherty Institute pointed out.
The “molecular scissors” technology could still be useful in the fight against COVID-19, she hopes, helping “one day” the development of “an accessible, non-toxic oral antiviral drug”.
This research also paves the way for the treatment of other viral diseases, “including the flu, Ebola and possibly HIV,” said Mohamed Fareh of the Australian Oncology Research Institute’s Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, co-author of the study.
Source: AGERPRES
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