You just discovered a new virus. This virus infects heart muscle, where it causes inflammation. This virus has a very high mutation rate. Which of the following is the best strategy for finding a treatment for this virus?
A) Develop a drug that blocks the host's ribosomes, which the virus uses to produce its proteins.
B) Encourage infected individuals to engage in heart- strengthening exercise.
C) Identify the receptor this virus uses and develop an antibody against that receptor.
D) Develop a vaccine from living viruses.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Identifying the receptor that the virus uses and developing an antibody against that receptor would be the best strategy for finding a treatment for this virus as the virus infects heart muscle and causes inflammation. This would allow for targeted therapy that specifically blocks the virus from entering and infecting host cells. Option A is not a viable strategy, as blocking host ribosomes would also prevent the host from producing essential proteins. Option B may be beneficial for overall heart health, but it would not directly treat the virus. Option D is not appropriate for treating an already infected individual and only serves as a preventative measure.

You Just Discovered a New Virus