RU researchers identify 9 new dengue virus genes

A research team of the Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology at Rajshahi University (RU) has identified nine new genes of the dengue virus.

Simultaneously, the team selected possible drugs to prevent the virus effectively.

Student of the department Abdul Latif conducted the research associated with two other students- Al Noman and Faisal Ahmed. Associate Professor Dr Asaduzzaman supervised the works. 

Talking to BSS, Abdul Latif said they analyzed the genetic data collected from the dengue virus patients. The spotted genes are: CDK1, BIRC5, TYMS, KIF20A, CCNB2, CDC20, AURKB, TK1 and PTEN. 

“We have also selected three preventive drugs through analyzing biotechnologies of the genes,” he said, adding that the drugs are: Entroctinib, Ematinib and Kuetapin, which can play a vital role in preventing the dengue virus effectively in future.

The research also shows that some change related to microRNA occurs in the body due to the virus infection that may play a role in preventing the virus. Specifically, the influence of MIR-103A-3P microRNA is very positive for dengue prevention.

Abdul Latif also said the drugs don’t target the virus, but rather they target the associated genes of the virus in the human body.