Bird flu replication genes identified

Scientists hunting for new methods to combat bird flu have identified various genes that the virus needs to replicate.

Around 100 genes have been recognised in a new study, in which experts from Japan, Indonesia and the US monitored the H5N1 in fruit flies.

Reuters reports that the researchers chose fruit flies due to their "relatively small" number of genes.

Of the 100 proteins identified, three exist in human cells and were seen as "important" in bird flu replication.

The scientists wrote in the Nature journal: "All viruses rely on host cell proteins and their associated mechanisms to complete the viral life cycle.

"Identifying the host molecules that participate in each step of virus replication could provide valuable new targets for antiviral therapy."

Two weeks ago, South Korea lifted restrictions on the movement and sale of poultry, declaring that no new cases of bird flu have been seen in the country since May 12th.