A laboratory-based investigation led by the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI) and UPMC Cancer Center has discovered a naturally occurring protein in human cells that may improve our ability to identify and treat viral infection such as influenza and hepatitis C. As a virus actually invades our cells and take over the cells’ mechanics. This is why most treatment option wills focus on developing a defense system within our cells.

“Viral infections remain among the leading causes of death worldwide,” said Dr. Saumendra N. Sarkar, assistant professor of microbiology and molecular genetics at UPCI.

Sarkar and his colleagues isolated oligoadenylate synthetases-like (OASL), a protein that appears quite often in people suffering from liver cancer caused by the hepatitis C virus. When researchers enhanced this protein in human cells, they noted the inhibition of viral replication. Further testing found mice without OASL were significantly more susceptible to viral infection compared to those with the protein. The research team hopes their findings will translate to more effective treatments for viral infection, ranging from the flu to hepatitis C.

Interferon, a similar natural occurring protein that is produced and released by cells to combat viruses, is currently used in hepatitis C treatment, but it is unsuccessful in treating influenza. Interferon treatment can also result in adverse side effects such as fatigue, headaches, fever, and nausea.

 "We need new defenses against viral infections, and our discovery is proving to be a promising avenue for further exploration," said Dr. Sarkar.