Physical Wellness

Zika Vaccine Available Soon: IBM Discovers Potential Cure For Zika & Ebola

By George Houston | Update Date: May 16, 2016 07:19 AM EDT

IBM researchers have reckoned that they have discovered a possible vaccine that will matchlessly counter elusive viruses such as the Zika and Ebola strains which hold ever-changing characteristics.

According to Medical Daily, IBM in a joint-effort with the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology in Singapore have to rethink their curative approach in dealing with such viruses and instead aimed their assault on the glycoproteins present on the outer wall of such viruses.

Lead researcher Dr. Yi Yang of IBM pointed out that, "We have created an anti-viral macromolecule that can tackle viruses by blocking the virus from infecting the cells, regardless of mutations. It is not toxic to healthy cells and is safe for use. This promising research advance represents years of hard work and collaboration with a global community of researchers."   

This designed oversize macromolecule composed of smaller sub-units which initially will release a set of electrical charges to draw in the virus. As it attaches to the glycoprotein outer shell it will reduce the effect of the acidity from the virus thus turning off the chance for it to duplicate itself.

 Secondly, the macromolecule will discharge a sugar known as mannose which clings to the healthy cells in the body, prompting the end of the speeding up process of the infection.

Despite still being in a developmental phase the researchers have looked futuristically that this "oversize macromolecule" will be a befitting tool physically as an antiviral soap that could go way beyond the common bathroom cleansing agent as it would take on Zika or even herpes - which could be mass produce by pharmaceutical companies to help the treatment of viral infections in travelers and those with compromised immune systems.

Co-author Dr. James Hedrick was ecstatic on their discovery saying, "With the recent outbreak of viruses such as Zika and Ebola, achieving anti-viral breakthroughs becomes even more important. We are excited about the possibilities that this novel approach represents, and are looking to collaborate with universities and other organizations to identify new applications."

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