Nano-based approach to combat emerging viral (NIPAH virus) infection

Abstract

Emergence of new virus and their heterogeneity are growing at an alarming rate. Sudden outburst of Nipah virus (NiV) has raised serious question about their instant management using conventional medication and diagnostic measures. A coherent strategy with versatility and comprehensive perspective to confront the rising distress could perhaps be effectuated by implementation of nanotechnology. But in concurrent to resourceful and precise execution of nano-based medication, there is an ultimate need of concrete understanding of the NIV pathogenesis. Moreover, to amplify the effectiveness of nano-based approach in a conquest against NiV, a list of developed nanosystem with antiviral activity is also a prerequisite. Therefore the present review provides a meticulous cognizance of cellular and molecular pathogenesis of NiV. Conventional as well several nano-based diagnosis experimentations against viruses have been discussed. Lastly, potential efficacy of different forms of nano-based systems as convenient means to shield mankind against NiV has also been introduced.

Graphical Abstract

Nipah virus (NiV) infects the host cell via cell surface receptor leading to the formation of syncytium, gradual degradation of which leads to the release of the virus in to blood streams, and transmission of infection to different organs. With nanotechnology it could be possible to detect and inactivate NiV infection specifically through targeted tagging or by blocking viral surface proteins. As these viral surface proteins are also expressed in NiV-infected cell which contributes towards the formation of syncytium, therefore designing a targeted nano-system against these expressed proteins, could also be helpful in prohibiting the spread of viral infection.