CDC Researchers Sequence Flu Virus Genome for the First Time

Understanding the Influenza Virus

The flu is a widespread infectious disease caused by various strains of the influenza virus. Each year, new strains emerge, leading to millions of infections and approximately half a million fatalities, especially among the very young and elderly. Throughout the 20th century, three significant outbreaks resulted in over fifty million deaths. Consequently, there is an annual urgency to develop a flu vaccine to safeguard vulnerable populations. However, the challenge of creating effective vaccines and treatments has been largely due to the limited understanding of the flu virus’s genome.

Breakthrough in Genome Sequencing

This year, researchers led by John Barnes at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) achieved a significant milestone by sequencing the genome of the flu virus. Unlike DNA, which is commonly found in animal cells, viruses typically utilize RNA to store their genetic information. This groundbreaking achievement was recently published in Nature.

Challenges of RNA Sequencing

RNA is a single-stranded molecule, making traditional DNA sequencing methods, which depend on duplicating both strands for accuracy, ineffective. As a result, researchers often face a more complex and less precise process when sequencing RNA. However, the CDC team employed an innovative approach using nanopore technology to sequence the flu virus RNA. This method involves passing RNA molecules through extremely thin pores and measuring the electrical fluctuations that occur as the molecules traverse these openings.

Future Implications of Nanopore Technology

Barnes and his team are optimistic that nanopore sequencing will become a standard procedure for analyzing other RNA viruses in the future. They aim to utilize this technology to identify RNA modifications that influence viral function. Such insights will enhance our understanding of how viruses evolve rapidly and exhibit varying effects on human health.

Conclusion

The successful sequencing of the flu virus genome paves the way for numerous research opportunities, ultimately leading to improved vaccines and treatments for influenza.

Written by C.I. Villamil

Reference: Callaway. 2018. Flu virus finally sequenced in its native form. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-018-04908-5