MELBOURNE, July 24 (Xinhua) -- Researchers in Australia have uncovered a critical role for fatty cell structures in the body's early detection of and defense against viruses, a discovery that could inform new antiviral strategies.
The study revealed that the fatty structures, known as "lipid droplets," help limit viral replication by becoming enriched in specific fatty acids and recruiting key antiviral proteins involved in immune signaling, according to a statement released by Australia's La Trobe University on Friday.
Researchers found that incorporating two of these fatty acids into artificial lipid droplets reduced viral replication and enhanced antiviral immune signals.
Published in Nature Communications, the discovery could open the door to a new type of antiviral strategy that harnesses the body's innate defense mechanisms rather than targeting individual viruses.
Lead researcher Karla Helbig of La Trobe University said lipid droplets, long considered passive fat stores, actively help defend the body against viruses.
"By manipulating lipid droplets or delivering specific antiviral fats, it may be possible to develop broad-spectrum antivirals that work against many different types of viruses," Helbig said.
Co-lead researcher Ebony Monson of La Trobe University said the discovery could help scientists prepare for the next pandemic.
"This study could lead to the development of a new wave of antiviral drugs that target a common pathway instead of specific viruses, helping to boost immune response and lower disease burden," Monson said. ■