Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
influenza A virus, M2, acidification, rimantadine
College
Life Sciences
Department
Physiology and Developmental Biology
Abstract
The ability of influenza A virus to unpack its genome, replicate, and infect its host is contingent upon acidification of the viral interior. This is achieved by proton conductance via M2, an integral membrane protein that forms proton channels in the viral lipid envelope of influenza A virus (1). The drugs amantadine and rimantadine have previously been successful in blocking proton flux into the virus, however viral resistance to these drugs has recently reached over 90% (2). The goal of this project is to provide direct evidence as to the actual site of interaction between rimantadine and M2, thereby aiding in the development of a replacement anti-influenza drug.
Recommended Citation
Bretzing, Douglas and Busath, David
(2014)
"Mechanism of Inhibition of Influenza A Virus,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014:
Iss.
1, Article 884.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/884