UW Research

June 8, 2012

Computer-Designed Proteins Programmed to Disarm Variety of Flu Viruses; David Baker Featured

Computer-designed proteins are under construction to fight the flu. Researchers are demonstrating that proteins found in nature, but that do not normally bind the flu, can be engineered to act as broad-spectrum antiviral agents against a variety of flu virus strains, including H1N1 pandemic influenza.

“One of these engineered proteins has a flu-fighting potency that rivals that of several human monoclonal antibodies,” said Dr. David Baker, professor of biochemistry at the University of Washington.

Read the full article in “The Cutting Edge.”