Research targets West Nile and Dengue fevers

Australian researchers have found a common variable in West Nile and Dengue fevers that could help develop vaccines for the diseases.

University of Queensland scientists discovered a molecule which controls the body's response to viral infection.

They discovered that subgenomic noncoding ribonucleic acid (sfRNA) found in flaviviruses had a significant effect on the ability to affect the host.

By genetically-engineered viruses that did not produce sfRNA, scientists found West Nile and Dengue fever were unable to kill or elicit disease symptoms.

By targeting the common denominator, the flaviviruses, a vaccine could be developed that is applicable to more than one ailment, Associate Professor Alexander Khromykh said.

"To develop new and effective antiviral strategies, we have to know as much as possible about the virus, or virus family, that we are fighting," he explained.

There is currently no cure for Dengue Fever, which produces fevers, headaches, joint pain and discomfort behind the eyes.

It is spread by the bite of a mosquito and is prevalent in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world.

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