Latest Ebola News: Scientists reveal role of genes in body’s response to Ebola

By: Editorial Team | | Published: October 31, 2014 12:00 pm

Tags: Genes In the news Latest Ebola News

The Ebola virus affects different people differently, say researchers, adding that genetic factors could be behind this mild-to-deadly range of reactions to the virus. While some people completely resist the disease, others suffer moderate to severe illness and recover, while those who are most susceptible succumb to bleeding, organ failure and shock. These differences are not related to any specific changes in the Ebola virus itself; instead, the body’s attempts to fight infection seems to determine disease severity. ‘Our data suggest that genetic factors play a significant role in disease outcome,’ said Michael Katze from University of Washington. (Read: 7 tips to prevent the spread of Ebola) Also Read - Ganesh Chaturthi 2020: 4 reasons an eco-friendly Ganesha is good for you

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For the study, the researchers examined the role of an individual’s genetic makeup in the course of Ebola disease through a mouse model. The researchers had obtained genetically diverse group of inbred laboratory mice to study locations on mouse genomes associated with influenza severity. The scientists examined mice that they infected with a mouse form of the same species of Ebola virus causing the 2014 West Africa outbreak. (Read: Ebola virus signs and symptoms you need to watch out for!) Also Read - Junk DNA' affects risk of inherited cancer: Study

The scientists found that disease outcomes and variations in mortality rates were co-related to specific genetic lines of mice. ‘The frequency of different manifestations of the disease across the lines of these mice screened so far are similar in variety and proportion to the spectrum of clinical disease observed in the 2014 West African outbreak,’ co-lead researcher Angela Rasmussen from University of Washington pointed out. (Read: 10 reasons that make the Ebola virus deadly for humans)

Survivors experienced more activity in genes that order blood vessel repair and the production of infection-fighting white blood cells. The scientists noted that certain specialised types of cells in the liver could also have limited virus reproduction and put a dampener on systemic inflammation and blood clotting problems in resistant mice. ‘We hope that medical researchers will be able to rapidly apply these findings to candidate therapeutics and vaccines,’ Katze stressed. The study appeared in the journal Science. (Read: Quarantine for Ebola what is it?)

Here are some expert tips that can help you prevent the disease.

Educate yourself about Ebola: Knowing the symptoms, modes of transmission and preventive measures is the first step to prevent the spread of the disease. This information is especially important for those who are travelling to and from affected areas in West Africa.

Maintain sanitary conditions: Basic hygiene plays a very important role in preventing Ebola. The exact way by which the virus enters the body is still debatable but skin and eyes are suggested routes for viral entry. However, food and water may also serve as source of entry. So, simple acts like washing hands before eating and disinfecting surfaces and covering the mouth can help prevent the spread of the virus, especially in areas surrounding the areas of outbreak.

Avoid contact with blood and body fluids: Ebola virus spreads through all body fluids including blood, semen, saliva, sweat, urine, fecal matter and vomit of infected individuals. Healthcare workers and medical staff who are more likely to come in contact with infected body fluids, infected needles and first aid, should handle them with protective gear. Read more about 8 tips to prevent Ebola infection

With inputs from IANS

Photo source: Getty images

Published : October 31, 2014 12:00 pm

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