4-amino-2-deoxy-2-3-didehydro-n-acetylneuraminic-acid and Disease-Models--Animal

Two potent inhibitors based on the crystal structure of influenza virus sialidase have been designed. These compounds are effective inhibitors not only of the enzyme, but also of the virus in cell culture and in animal models. The results provide an example of the power of rational, computer-assisted drug design, as well as indicating significant progress in the development of a new therapeutic or prophylactic treatment for influenza infection.

Topics: Animals; Antiviral Agents; Cell Line; Computer-Aided Design; Disease Models, Animal; Drug Design; Female; Ferrets; Guanidines; Humans; Influenza A virus; Influenza, Human; Mice; Models, Molecular; Neuraminidase; Pyrans; Sheep; Sialic Acids; Viral Plaque Assay; Virus Replication; Zanamivir