In a significant stride towards understanding and combating respiratory infections, researchers have developed a novel computational tool to identify genes regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs) during human rhinovirus (RV) infections. This breakthrough, led by Pax Bosner from the School of Technology and Maritime Industries at Southampton Solent University, offers a promising avenue for rapid diagnostics and therapeutic target discovery, with potential implications for maritime sectors where respiratory infections can pose challenges.
Human rhinovirus is no stranger to most of us, often causing the common cold and exacerbating conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. However, the precise role of miRNAs in RV infection has remained elusive until now. Bosner and his team set out to change that. They first analyzed the impact of RV16, a common strain of the virus, on miRNA expression throughout its life cycle. This analysis revealed a small panel of miRNAs with altered expression, which was then used to develop a novel bioinformatics pipeline.
This pipeline integrates time-resolved miRNA profiling with multi-database gene-phenotype mapping, a fancy way of saying it combines data on miRNA expression over time with information on how genes relate to specific traits or conditions. The result is a powerful tool that can predict genes targeted by the virus and regulated by these miRNAs.
Bosner’s team used this tool to predict seven genes implicated in antiviral responses, specifically targeted by RV16 and regulated by the identified miRNAs. These genes include EZH2, RARG, PTPN13, OLFML3, STAG2, SMARCA2, and CD40LG. This method, published in the journal ‘Methods and Protocols’ (which, by the way, is a fancy name for a journal that focuses on sharing detailed, step-by-step scientific methods), offers a scalable approach to interrogate miRNA-gene interactions for viral infections.
So, what does this mean for the maritime industry? Well, respiratory infections can spread quickly in close quarters, like those found on ships. Having rapid and accurate diagnostic tools could help prevent outbreaks and ensure the health and safety of crew members. Moreover, understanding the genes and miRNAs involved in antiviral responses could lead to the development of new therapies, benefiting not only maritime professionals but also the general public.
As Bosner puts it, “This method offers a scalable approach to interrogate miRNA-gene interactions for viral infections, with potential applications in rapid diagnostics and therapeutic target discovery.” Indeed, this research opens up new avenues for combating respiratory infections, both on land and at sea. It’s a reminder that scientific advancements, no matter how niche they may seem, can have far-reaching impacts on our daily lives and industries.
In the words of Bosner, “Our in-house Python-based tool, combining mirDIP, miRDB and VarElect APIs, predicted seven genes implicated in antiviral responses and specifically targeted by RV16 and regulated by our miRNAs.” This tool could be a game-changer in the fight against respiratory infections, and we’re excited to see how it develops in the future.