The reason behind low platelet count in dengue patients, has baffled scientists and doctors for years. But not anymore! Researchers at University of Hyderabad finally have the answers for us! Every year in India, dengue virus wreaks havoc on states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Delhi. Almost 40% of the Indian population is susceptible to dengue virus infection. Moreover, there is no specific cure or vaccine available against dengue . Hence, the treatment is given mainly according to the symptoms of the patients.
The genome of dengue virus has seven non-structural proteins, three structural proteins and two untranslated regions. One peculiar non structural protein called dengue proteases (NS3) plays an important role in the multiplication of the virus. The NS3 enters the mitochondria (energy house of a cell) of host cells and breaks down the GrpEL1 protein. This protein is an important mitochondrial matrix protein which regulates some major functions of mitochondria.
This means that a degraded mitochondrial function can be the reason behind low platelet-count or thrombocytopenia in dengue patients. Loss of platelets is a major cause of death in dengue patients. This is because it leads to internal haemorrhage and ultimately death.
Before this research by the scientists at University of Hyderabad, the world was unaware about the relationship between GrpEL1 and NS3. This study is a major breakthrough not just for treatment of dengue virus but for other viral infections as well. The head researchers Dr. M Venkata Ramana and professor Naresh Babu Sepuri say “By virtue of its interaction with NS3 of dengue virus; GrpEL1 can be a potential target to develop anti-dengue drugs that may reduce the severity of dengue infections.”
The seriousness of dengue infections can be gauged from the fact that even after timely implementation of safety measures, states still fall victim to it. This Indian research has definitely opened new doors for research on potential viral drugs and vaccines. The viruses may mutate fast, but our scientists are not going to fall behind either!