Abstract: Method and composition for protection and treatment against influenza viral infection by modulating the activity of at least one essential host signaling pathways, including the Hedgehog (Hh), the Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP), the Notch (N) signaling pathways or combinations thereof, which activity is altered by the viral protein NS1. The method and composition comprise use of a compound that modulates at least one of these essential host signaling pathways for preventing or controlling symptoms associated with influenza viral infection. The method or composition can also be used either alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents for treating or protecting against influenza infection, and associated syndromes.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for inhibiting the binding of an arenavirus to a cellular receptor. The method involves providing, in soluble form, a reagent comprising .alpha.-dystroglycan or a portion thereof, the reagent being characterized by the ability to bind to the arenavirus thereby inhibiting the binding of the arenavirus to the cellular receptor. The reagent is contacted with an arenavirus particle prior to infection of a cell by the arenavirus particle. Also disclosed are methods for treating an arenavirus infection in a patient and preventing an arenavirus infection in an individual at risk. These methods involve providing a therapeutic composition comprising .alpha.-dystroglycan or a portion thereof which is characterized by the ability to bind to arenaviruses, thereby inhibiting the binding of arenaviruses to a cellular receptor; and administering the composition to the patient or individual at risk.