Nasal spray could protect against any strain of flu and the method could work against other pathogens

[University of St Andrews] Scots scientists have developed a novel treatment that could protect against any strain of the flu.

It is hoped that the new development, led by researchers at the University of St Andrews, has the potential to guard against current, future and even pandemic strains of the virus.

In an international effort, the scientists involved say that the preventative treatment could be used as a ‘frontline defence’ before an effective flu vaccine is developed. Leading influenza experts say the new development is ‘very exciting and potentially of great importance in this era’.

PNAS – Prevention of influenza by targeting host receptors using engineered proteins

Researchers have developed a new class of host-targeted biologics to prevent influenza by engineering multivalent carbohydrate-binding modules that bind with high affinity to sialic acid, the critical component of the influenza virus cell surface receptor. Mouse studies reveal a remarkable efficacy: a single 1-μg dose of the lead biologic given 7 d before a lethal challenge with 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza virus provides complete protection. This new approach has the potential to be a front-line defense against any current and future influenza virus, overcoming viral escape to vaccines and antivirals. In addition, the biologics may have broader application against other respiratory pathogens.

Strands of engineered proteins bind to a mouse’s cells to ward off flu viruses. University of St. Andrews

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