DRACO

DRACO (Double-stranded RNA Activated Caspase Oligomerizer) is an experimental antiviral therapeutic approach designed to target and eliminate cells infected by viruses. The concept was developed by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and aims to provide a broad-spectrum antiviral treatment.

Mechanism of Action

DRACO works by combining elements of the body's natural defense mechanisms against viral infections. It utilizes a protein that can detect the presence of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), a molecular pattern associated with viral infections. Upon detection of dsRNA, DRACO triggers apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in the infected cell, thereby preventing the virus from replicating and spreading to other cells. The key components of DRACO include:

• A dsRNA-binding domain that recognizes and binds to dsRNA.
• A caspase recruitment domain (CARD) that activates the apoptotic pathway.

Development and Research

The initial development of DRACO was led by Dr. Todd Rider at MIT. Early studies demonstrated that DRACO could effectively target and kill cells infected by a wide range of viruses, including influenza, dengue virus, and rhinovirus. These studies were conducted in vitro (in cell cultures) and in vivo (in animal models).

Potential Applications

DRACO has the potential to be developed into a treatment for various viral infections, including:

• Influenza
• Hepatitis
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
• Ebola virus

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its promising potential, DRACO faces several challenges before it can be used as a therapeutic in humans. These challenges include:

• Ensuring the specificity of DRACO to avoid off-target effects and damage to healthy cells.
• Optimizing delivery methods to effectively target infected cells in the human body.
• Conducting extensive clinical trials to establish safety and efficacy in humans.

Related Pages

• Antiviral drug
• Apoptosis
• RNA interference
• Virus
• Immune system

See Also

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Influenza
• Hepatitis
• HIV
• Herpes Simplex Virus
• Ebola virus