How Degrading Viral RNA Helps Fight SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Recently, scientists have discovered a new way to fight against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Researchers at the University of California, San Diego have developed a technique that can degrade viral RNA, which is the genetic material of the virus. This technique could lead to more effective treatments for SARS-CoV-2 infections, and could potentially be used to prevent future outbreaks. The study found that by introducing a type of enzyme called an RNA-cleaving deoxyribonuclease (DNase), the viral RNA can be targeted and destroyed. This enzyme works by recognizing and cutting up the viral RNA into small pieces, preventing the virus from replicating. The researchers believe that this technique could be used to treat both acute and chronic SARS-CoV-2 infections, as well as other viral infections. It could also potentially be used to prevent future outbreaks, by targeting the viral RNA before it has a chance to spread.
source: Phys.org