Researchers Discover New Method to Stop Measles Virus

Swiss researchers have discovered the docking protein of a virus similar to the measles virus, which could lead to the development of a drug against the highly contagious disease.

Measles: Researchers Discover New Method to Stop the Virus

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that can be dangerous worldwide. According to the German Federal Center for Health Education on the infektionsschutz.de website, complications occur in one in ten people who contract the disease. An infection with measles can even affect memory.

Measles is not just a childhood disease; adults can also become infected. The risk is particularly high for people who are not vaccinated against the measles virus. The vaccination gap means that there are occasional outbreaks of measles in Germany as well. In the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science (PNAS), a study was published whose findings contribute to the development of a drug against measles.

Researchers from Switzerland have been able to determine the docking protein of a virus similar to the measles virus, reports the University of Bern. This is the canine distemper virus, a virus that infects dogs. Both viruses belong to the genus Morbilli virus. Another similarity is that both viruses are RNA viruses. Similar to the corona virus, which enters cells with the spike protein, the measles and canine distemper viruses also use a specific mechanism to enter cells. To prevent transmission, docking of the protein must be prevented. If this works with the canine distemper virus, the findings can also be used for the development of a drug against measles.

The measles virus is becoming more common again

According to the German Federal Ministry of Health, the vaccination rate against measles is about 75 percent. However, a rate of around 95 percent would be necessary for comprehensive immunity. This is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, for example, due to previous illnesses.

Measles infections are increasing worldwide. According to the relief organization UNICEF, there were over 850,000 cases of measles worldwide in 2019, the highest value in 23 years. Over 200,000 people are said to have died from the infection.

To achieve the best possible protection against measles, the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends that children be vaccinated against measles twice. Since many of them are not vaccinated, the WHO even warns of global measles outbreaks. For this reason, some kindergartens and daycares have a mandatory measles vaccination requirement. Adults who have only received one vaccination, are unsure about their vaccination status, or work in a risk area are recommended to receive a single vaccination.

The discovery of the docking protein of a virus similar to the measles virus is an important step towards the development of a drug against measles. With increasing outbreaks of the disease worldwide, it is necessary to prevent transmission as much as possible. Vaccinations against measles are therefore essential to protect against the disease.

Source: Frankfuhrter Rundschau